Government Childcare Measures
Chair of the Education Select Committee Robin Walker has emphasized the need for further government support in childcare provisions to assist families and the early years sector. The expansion of provisions to graduate students and disadvantaged groups has been urged.
Extension of Free Childcare
Starting this week, working families with two-year-olds will benefit from 15 hours of free childcare per week, with plans to increase this to 30 hours for all under-fives by September 2025.
Evaluation of New Provisions
Walker expressed the importance of closely monitoring the impact of these new provisions in the coming years. The focus will be on assessing the changes in parental access to early years care and reaching various groups across the country.
Committee Recommendations
The Education Committee previously recommended extending free childcare hours to parents in training or education, particularly beneficial for single parents seeking more flexible work opportunities.
Support for Graduate Students
Walker highlighted the need for childcare support for graduate students to enhance retention rates and promote diversity in high-power positions in various fields, including science.
Expanding Support
There is a call for further consideration of measures to support disadvantaged families and single parents, including the expansion of Family Hubs model across the UK to provide comprehensive support for families with young children.
Challenges in the Early Years Sector
Concerns have been raised regarding the recruitment and retention crisis in the early years sector, with calls for a new Workforce Strategy to address these challenges and ensure the successful implementation of government pledges.
Government Response
The Department for Education has expressed confidence in the childcare market’s strength, highlighting the significant expansion in childcare services and increased support for the early years workforce through various initiatives.
