Where there is good-quality accessible childcare provision, what sense is it to open a children's centre along the road? This is a complete waste of financial resources. We are constantly being reminded that we should be 'working together for the sake of the child'. But this is not working together, it is putting good provision at risk of going out of business.
The Government is constantly referring to a classless society, yet by creating these centres it is only creating a bigger divide between the wealthy and the poor. The Government should be ensuring that LEAs are working with already well-established childcare providers. It makes no difference to a child whether the providers are private or voluntary, as long as they are receiving the best possible care and early education.
Children learn from example and if that example is to segregate across social backgrounds, then I fear we will reap what we sow.
I heard of a Sure Start provider who had been unsuccessful in encouraging the more 'needy' parent and child to their baby massage class, so the class was offered to a wider postcode area. My point is that all parents and children are needy. Why must we make people feel different, when in fact many high-quality childcare providers are quietly going about their way supporting parents and directing them to other professionals when required, without making anyone feel any different from their neighbours?
We are constantly being told of an inclusive and equal society, along with parental choice; let us see that choice being exercised by parents no matter what their postcode is.
* Judith Baxter, St Mary's Nursery, Hexham, Northumberland
