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

Department for Education data reveals a significant increase in the proportion of early years children with Education, Health and Care Plans (EHCPs) attending non-school based nurseries. The figures indicate an almost 10 per cent rise in just one year, highlighting shifting patterns in SEND provision for children under five.

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Nurseries Close or Reduce Hours as Heatwave Temperatures Set to Exceed 37°C
Early Years Jun 23, 2026

Nurseries Close or Reduce Hours as Heatwave Temperatures Set to Exceed 37°C

As temperatures are predicted to soar above 37 degrees Celsius, early years providers are being forced to make difficult operational decisions. While some nurseries have taken the unprecedented step of closing their doors or reducing opening hours to protect children and staff, others are rapidly adapting their routines with innovative cooling strategies to remain open safely.

Early Years Teacher Status could be replaced by Qualified Teacher Status
Policy Jun 22, 2026

Early Years Teacher Status could be replaced by Qualified Teacher Status

The Department for Education has launched a consultation on proposals to replace Early Years Teacher Status (EYTS) with Qualified Teacher Status (QTS). The potential changes could significantly alter qualification requirements for those working in early years settings across England.

Over 4,000 sign petition to prevent closure of South Tyneside nurseries
Early Years Jun 22, 2026

Over 4,000 sign petition to prevent closure of South Tyneside nurseries

More than 4,000 residents have signed a petition calling on South Tyneside Council to reconsider plans to review its early years provision. Campaigners fear the review could result in the closure of up to 12 nurseries based within Family Hubs, sparking widespread concern about the impact on local families and early childhood education.

Healthy Start Scheme Payments ‘Failing to Keep Up with Inflation’, Researchers Warn
Early Years Jun 18, 2026

Healthy Start Scheme Payments ‘Failing to Keep Up with Inflation’, Researchers Warn

New research reveals that the Government’s Healthy Start scheme, which provides vital financial support for families to purchase milk, infant formula, and healthy foods, has significantly lost value due to inflation. The findings highlight growing concerns about whether the benefit remains adequate to support pregnant women and young children during the crucial early years.

Quarter of Eligible Families Missing Out on Healthy Start Nutrition Scheme
Early Years Jun 17, 2026

Quarter of Eligible Families Missing Out on Healthy Start Nutrition Scheme

Nearly one in four mothers eligible for the Government's Healthy Start scheme are not registered to receive support, according to a major infant feeding survey. The findings highlight significant gaps in take-up of the programme, which provides vouchers for milk, formula, fruit and vegetables to support healthy nutrition in the crucial first years of life.