Meanwhile the number of nurseries was down by around 50 during the same time period.
The figures also show that 95 per cent of providers on the Early Years Register are judged good or outstanding.
The number of new childminders joining the sector was also much lower between 31 August and December 2018 than it has been over the same time period during the previous three years.
For example, in 2017 there were 1,400 new childminders that joined between August and December, double the number for the same period in 2018 (700).
The Professional Association for Childcare and Early Years (PACEY) is so concerned that it has commissioned the Plymouth Institute of Education at the University of Plymouth to identify what is causing the fall in numbers in England and Wales and possible solutions.
Register now to continue reading
Thank you for visiting Nursery World and making use of our archive of more than 35,000 expert features, subject guides, case studies and policy updates. Why not register today and enjoy the following great benefits:
What's included
-
Free access to 4 subscriber-only articles per month
-
Unlimited access to news and opinion
-
Email newsletter providing activity ideas, best practice and breaking news
Already have an account? Sign in here
