As chair, James Hempsall, of Coram Hempsall’s, emphasised the long road that early years and childcare has travelled, undergoing profound change and reflecting important societal shifts.
‘From informal care to structured, evidence-based learning environments, we’ve built a system grounded in child development, safeguarding, and inclusivity,’ he said.
The panel took a long view on sector progress, factoring in the development of the EYFS, the professionalisation of the workforce, and increased recognition of the early years as a critical foundation for lifelong learning and wellbeing.
It also weighed the current shape of the sector and the advantages and disadvantages of the many different types provision within it. It was agreed that everyone working in early education should not be held back by ‘small differences’ but instead be united in the commitment for doing the very best for children.
It was agreed that whatever the ‘name’ or ‘type’ of the type of the setting, what matters most is the quality of learning and care.
‘While challenges remain, the foundations we’ve laid – rooted in research, policy, and practice – equip us to adapt and innovate for the future. We are not starting from scratch; we are building on a century of meaningful progress,’ said James Hempsall.
- Read James Hempsall's viewpoint
