The study by Nottingham Trent University and the University of Northampton, based upon responses from 154 staff working in early years settings, suggests the 1:5 ratio for two-year-olds in England ‘simply doesn’t work’ in nurseries where it has been implemented.
Since last September, nurseries in England have been allowed to increase staff: child ratios from 1:4 to 1:5 for two-year-olds.
According to the research, respondents working to relaxed ratios feel they are taking on more of a ‘crowd control role’, than education and early child development.
A managing director with 20 years’ experience said, ‘On days when we have no choice but to work to ratios it feels more like crowd control. Staff are involved with meeting basic physical needs and ensuring no one is hurt which leaves little time for anything else. Staff are more stressed which impacts the way they interact with the children. Children are less happy and less engaged in play.’
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