Deborah Lawson

Assessment and accountability

While there is recognition in the sector of a need for a fair and transparent accountability system to measure attainment and progress, the introduction of a baseline assessment is not the answer.

Manifesto promises must deliver

The surprise call of a snap General Election presents an ideal opportunity to get early years policy right, but will politicians fill manifestos with unworkable promises or have they learnt their lesson?

Your Ofsted experience is valuable

The popular decision to bring school inspections ‘in house’ was a direct result of concerns raised about consistency, yet no details have yet been released about how this transition is to be handled.

We gain more strength from diversity

MA Education Ltd, St Judes Church, Dulwich Road, London, SE24 0PB neil.henty@markallengroup.com

Infrastructure, collaboration, funding

Early years issues remain high profile. That is exactly as it should be with so many to address. The major issues are funding, staff recruitment and retention, and the expansion of the free childcare entitlement.

Expansion must benefit profession

It appears from the recent announcements and from the models of business and delivery suggested that, despite government rhetoric, quantity has become the priority when, to the sector, quality is key.

Goodwill is not a development path

A recruitment and retention crisis in the early years that could reach epic proportions is currently within sight unless the government can come up with a robust and practical workforce strategy.

Funds for staff development

The government recently launched a call for evidence regarding funding levels in the early years, but whatever the outcome it is clear that the cost of childcare provision must include staff development.

Unlock barriers and support

Recruitment and retention, in addition to an upskilling of the workforce, and whether certain grades are entry or exit requirements, is crucial to the roll-out and success of the free 30-hour childcare offer.

Political wheels now in motion

With the next General Election under a year away, politicians and their advisors are setting their sights on vote-winning, headline grabbing, soundbites, with the early years very much high on the agenda.