Take twos - no further charges
James Hempsall
Monday, July 28, 2014
Free is free. It is a fundamental aim of early learning for two year olds. Yet this simple message is often misunderstood, says James Hempsall
In offering free funded early learning for two-year-olds (and three- and four-year-olds for that matter), families should be under no obligation, pressure or expectation to pay anything. This is particularly important for the two-year-old offer, as it is a targeted initiative and not a universal entitlement like free places for three- and four-year-olds.
However, I often hear stories from local authorities, providers and parents that further charges can sometimes be implied or imposed by providers. This is contrary to funding requirements and guidance. It is against the conditions of funding contracts between local authorities and providers too.
Families eligible for the two-year-old offer have particular characteristics that make them eligible for this offer. In 2013, it included families eligible for free school meals; this year, it also includes low income working families earning no more than £16,190 a year.
Additionally, children who are looked after by the local authority, have a current statement of special educational needs or an education, health and care plan, attract Disability Living Allowance, or have left care through special guardianship or an adoption or residence order are all eligible. It has been identified that such families are the least advantaged and would benefit from an earlier start to their learning.
It is therefore unreasonable for providers to suggest a requirement to purchase a lunch. It is almost impossible for such families to pay an up front deposit or registration fee. And it is not in the spirit of the initiative to deliver the 15 hours per week in ways that give parents no option but to purchase additional childcare hours, so their offer fits with employment patterns or family responsibilities.
On the flip side, we will see about 130,000 low-income working families become eligible this year, and I know many purchase additional hours. This is a new business opportunity, separate but linked to the free offer.
Parents are showing us how the free entitlement is enabling them to increase their working hours, and improve their financial circumstances - key objectives of the scheme.
James Hempsall is director of Hempsall's (@jhempsall, www.hempsalls.com).
