The sector has repeatedly made it clear to the government that lowering ratios in early years settings is a dangerous decision. In its March 2023 Budget, the government has chosen to ignore the voices of early years professionals and families, and allow settings to lower ratios for two year olds.
We believe that decreasing staff-to-child ratios:
- Would not reduce cost for parents.
- Would increase workload
- Would limit the individualised attention staff are able to give each child, which is crucial in ensuring children feel safe, secure, and able to learn.
- Would increase the level of risk in early years settings.
