Early Years EHCPs Increase at Non-School Settings, DfE Data Reveals

New Department for Education statistics reveal a notable shift in how special educational needs support is being delivered to the youngest children. The data shows that the proportion of early years children holding Education, Health and Care Plans (EHCPs) in non-school based nursery settings has risen by almost 10 per cent over the past year. This increase suggests growing recognition of SEND needs prior to formal schooling, with more families seeking or requiring specialist support within private, voluntary, and independent early years provision. The trend raises important questions about capacity and expertise within early years settings, which may face challenges in meeting complex needs without the same resources as maintained nursery schools or special schools. Local authorities must ensure that these non-school based settings receive adequate funding, training, and therapeutic support to deliver on EHCP commitments. The rise also reflects ongoing pressures within the SEND system, where early identification is increasingly crucial, yet appropriate provision remains difficult to secure in mainstream early years environments. For cabinet members overseeing children's services, these figures underscore the need for closer partnership working between early years providers, health services, and SEND teams. Ensuring that nurseries can accommodate children with EHCPs effectively requires investment in both workforce development and physical infrastructure. As the government continues its SEND reform agenda, supporting early years inclusion will be vital to preventing escalation of needs and giving children the best foundation for future learning.