Allegations of inadequacy outrage nursery sector

The National Day Nurseries Association said claims made by Deborah Lawson, the chair of PAT, that nursery staff were poor role models with inadequate language and social skills were 'insulting' and 'ridiculous'.

Purnima Tanuku, chief executive of NDNA, said, 'More than 80 per cent of staff in nurseries hold a relevant childcare qualification, which requires dedication, skills and a love for the job.'

Michael Freeston, director of training and quality assurance, Pre-school Learning Alliance, said, 'This motion is yet another example of the unfair denigration of a hardworking and undervalued sector. It shows a complete lack of understanding that qualification levels are only pieces in the jigsaw of issues facing the early years sector and its workforce.'

But Ms Lawson told Nursery World it was not her intention to insult those who are highly qualified, in training or thinking of entering the profession.

'We are concerned about a small but sadly increasing percentage of people who want to train as childcarers, or are being directed into the profession without the relevant qualifications with the idea it's an easy option.'

She said members have told her that placement students are 'often not up to the job and cannot speak properly'. One nursery manager refuses to take on work experience students because 'the standards have dropped so low'.

She said, 'We need to recruit in a more robust way. National recruitment campaigns give the impression anyone can have a career in childcare. But low achievers should not be directed into childcare for their self-esteem.'

Jane Haywood, chief executive of the Children's Workforce Development Council, said, 'We are committed to the vision of a world-class workforce and we are working on initiatives to help improve the skills of this vital part of the sector.'