HC Deb 18 May 2004 vol 421 cc911-2W
Mrs. Brooke

To ask the Secretary of State for Education and Skills what plans he has to introduce requirements for qualifications for those working in early years settings; and if he will make a statement. [172344]

Margaret Hodge

The national standards for under 8s day care and childminding require that the manager in a registered early years setting, and all supervisors where full day care is provided, have at least a level 3 qualification appropriate to the post. In addition, at least half of all other childcare staff should hold a level 2 qualification appropriate for the care or development of children. There are currently no plans to change these requirements.