More than nine in ten providers surveyed said they would be raising their fees for non-funded Government hours, with eight in ten saying they would introduce or increase optional charges.
The research follows recent changes to Government guidance, which clamps down on nurseries charging 'voluntary extras' to parents, including, for example, nappies, meals, snacks, and trips.
The Department for Education has updated the guidance in line with a recent High Court judgment, which ruled that charges must not be mandatory or a condition of accessing a funded place.
More than 1,100 providers took part in the Early Years Alliance survey, which found that six in 10 of them are likely to cut the number of three-and four-year-old funded places they offer, or opt out of offering funded places for this age group entirely.
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
