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Automatically curated from DfE announcements, education news, and sector updates.

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Safeguarding 1 month ago

Government reviews DBS system after nursery worker employed whilst on bail for indecent images

The Government is urgently reviewing the Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) system after it emerged a nursery worker was able to secure employment at an early years setting whilst on bail for possessing indecent images of children. The case has exposed significant safeguarding gaps in how criminal allegations are flagged to employers in the childcare sector before conviction.

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Almost one in five baby and toddler groups face closure as costs surge
Early Years Jul 2, 2026

Almost one in five baby and toddler groups face closure as costs surge

New research from the Early Years Alliance reveals that nearly 20% of baby and toddler groups across England are at risk of shutting down due to soaring running costs. These vital community services, which support families from birth to age five, are struggling to survive amidst the ongoing cost of living crisis.

Birth to 5 Matters Revised: Key Changes Explained
Early Years Jul 2, 2026

Birth to 5 Matters Revised: Key Changes Explained

Nancy Stewart, leading the Birth to 5 Matters review, sets out the principal updates to this crucial early years guidance. The revised framework incorporates new evidence and addresses emerging priorities to support practitioners working with children from birth to age five.

How Intergenerational Care Training is Bringing Children and Care Home Residents Together
Early Years Jul 2, 2026

How Intergenerational Care Training is Bringing Children and Care Home Residents Together

Alex Gowland shares how completing a Level 3 Diploma in Intergenerational Care and Education provided the structured knowledge and confidence to develop meaningful practice connecting young children with care home residents. The qualification bridges early years education and adult social care, creating enriching experiences for both generations whilst building professional expertise.

Research Journeys: A Practical Guide for Early Years Practitioners
Education Jul 2, 2026

Research Journeys: A Practical Guide for Early Years Practitioners

This review examines a practical guide designed to help early childhood professionals plan and conduct small-scale research within their settings. Visiting professor Richard Willis explores how practitioners working with children from birth to age five can develop their research skills to enhance evidence-based practice.

Growing Young Minds: Picturebooks that Cultivate Environmental Awareness
Education Jul 2, 2026

Growing Young Minds: Picturebooks that Cultivate Environmental Awareness

This article explores how carefully selected picturebooks can help children from birth to age five develop an understanding of the natural world, growth and environmental stewardship. Meg Barclay highlights stories that sow the seeds of ecological awareness and support early literacy through themes of nature and change.

Experts Identify Three Critical Barriers Facing Disadvantaged Children in Early Years
Policy Jul 1, 2026

Experts Identify Three Critical Barriers Facing Disadvantaged Children in Early Years

A panel of early years specialists has given evidence to MPs identifying three fundamental systemic barriers preventing disadvantaged children from thriving during the critical birth to five period. Their testimony highlights how structural inequalities in health, education and family support require urgent policy attention to ensure every child gets the best possible start.

MPs Told of 'Systemic Barriers' Facing Disadvantaged Children in Early Years
Policy Jul 1, 2026

MPs Told of 'Systemic Barriers' Facing Disadvantaged Children in Early Years

A panel of experts has given evidence to Parliament on the systemic barriers preventing disadvantaged children from thriving in the early years. The session highlighted how inequality in access to quality childcare and early education risks entrenching disadvantage before children even start primary school.

Springtime discovery: How children explored the world of insects
Early Years Jul 1, 2026

Springtime discovery: How children explored the world of insects

The seasonal rise in insects has provided rich opportunities for children to engage with the natural world through hands-on observation. This spontaneous learning experience has sparked curiosity and supported the development of scientific thinking among early years learners.