§ 24. Caroline FlintTo ask the Secretary of State for Education and Employment what responses there have been to the Qualifications and Curriculum Authority's consultation on establishing a foundation stage for three to five-year-olds. [88990]
§ Ms HodgeThe Qualifications and Curriculum Authority's recently published summary of responses to the review of the Desirable Learning Outcomes shows overwhelming support for the establishment of a foundation stage for three to five-year-olds.
Percentage Questions asked by the Qualifications and Curriculum Authority Sample response Are the aims of the foundation stage broadly right? 98 Do the Early Learning Goals reflect the aims? Average 95 Are the Early Learning goals appropriate for the majority of children at the end of the foundation stage? Average 91 Should a foundation stage be established? 89
§ 27. Helen JacksonTo ask the Secretary of State for Education and Employment what steps he is taking to raise the quality of early years pre-school education. [88993]
§ Ms HodgeThe Qualifications and Curriculum Authority (QCA) is reviewing the Desirable Learning Outcomes and has proposed the introduction of a Foundation Stage until the end of Reception Year. The QCA is also establishing a Qualifications and Training Framework for the early years education, child care and playwork sector. The Government are currently considering their response to the consultation on regulation and inspection of early years education and care and hope to make an announcement shortly.
§ 32. Mr. GrayTo ask the Secretary of State for Education and Employment when the review of pre-school education will be completed; and if he will make a statement. [88998]
§ Ms HodgeI have asked the panel reviewing the future role of pre-schools and playgroups to report to me by the middle of August. The review is considering how pre-schools and playgroups can play a full part in the expansion of early education and child care services.