The DfE has published updated Statutory Guidance for local authorities on the provision of early education and childcare. It sets out what schools and local authorities must do to comply with the law.
The current statutory guidance which is valid until 31 August 2017 includes information on:
- the extension of the early education entitlement for 2 year olds
- the introduction of childminder agencies
- providers who do not actively promote fundamental British values or promote views or theories as fact which is contrary to established scientific or historical evidence and explanations
This will be replaced by new statutory guidance valid from 1 September 2017 which also includes information on:
- the introduction of 30 hours free childcare
- how local authorities should pay providers to deliver free places
- the requirement that local authorities publish information about childcare in their area, including free childcare entitlements