News

Voluntary sector progresses most

The voluntary sector has improved more than any other type of provision, according to the first large-scale study of childcare across England since the Effective Provision of Pre-School Education (EPPE) in the late 1990s. The Quality of Childcare Settings in the Millennium Cohort Study (MCS), which compared EPPE data, found that while quality had gone up in all sectors, particularly with the 'learning aspects of provision', the voluntary sector made the largest gains.

The Quality of Childcare Settings in the Millennium Cohort Study (MCS), which compared EPPE data, found that while quality had gone up in all sectors, particularly with the 'learning aspects of provision', the voluntary sector made the largest gains.

The MCS is following the lives of 19,000 babies born between 2000 and 2002.

In contrast to the NNI evaluation (News, 5 April), which focused on disadvantaged areas, the study provides a snapshot of childcare quality across England, with 632 three- to - five-year-olds in 301 private, voluntary and maintained settings.

It said, 'Voluntary providers have made significant improvements in all areas, including personal care routines, interaction and language, curricular provision for literacy, maths and science, and provision for diversity and individual learning needs.'

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

Register

Already have an account? Sign in here



Nursery World Jobs

Deputy Manager

South Hornchurch

Co Nursery Manager

Clapham, London (Greater)

Nursery Practitioner

Hammersmith and Fulham, London (Greater)