§ Mr. Laurence RobertsonTo ask the Secretary of State for Education and Employment what discussions he had with(a) teachers, (b) playgroup staff and (c) parents before proposing guidelines for the teaching of the under-fives; what extra provision he is making in terms of (i) teachers and (ii) buildings for implementing the guidelines; and if he will make a statement. [77367]
§ Ms HodgeThe Qualification and Curriculum Authority held eight consultative conferences with representatives of Early Years Development and Childcare Partnerships, which include providers of early education and parents, before issuing its consultation document on the review of the desirable learning outcomes on 22 February. The consultation document has been sent to EYDC Partnerships, Local Education Authorities, teachers associations and to a sample of schools. Alongside this, the Secretary of State is considering responses to the consultation on the regulation of early education and day care which covered issues including adult:child ratios, qualifications and premises requirements.