Neil Leitch, CEO of
the Early Years Alliance, commented:
“We have long argued that the early years should be viewed as
critical education, and not just childcare, and so it is positive
to see that the majority of parents recognise the importance of
early years provision and the role it plays in giving children a
good start in life.
“That said, we would also stress that the early years is
about more than getting ready for school – the early years is a
critical stage of education in its own right, and quality early
education and care plays a vital role in building character,
instilling confidence and self-belief, and supporting children to
develop life-long learning skills.
“With the Government's Best Start in Life strategy
particularly focused on closing the gap between disadvantaged
children and their peers, we are glad to see such high public
support for giving all children access to early education,
regardless of their parents' employment status, alongside
recognition that improving early years availability is an
important part of tackling the effects of child poverty.
“Now is a real opportunity for change for the early years,
and one that can most effectively be driven by providers and
parents working together to demand more for our youngest children
– and this includes ensuring that all children have access to the
early learning opportunities that will enable them to thrive for
years to come.”
