| answer text |
<p>The Government remains strongly committed to the universal entitlement for three-
and four-year-olds because of the evidence that it promotes school readiness and longer-term
outcomes, particularly for the most disadvantaged children. A number of 30 hours early
implementer areas are focusing on ensuring that disadvantaged children remain able
to access the free entitlement, including in maintained nursery schools.</p><p>Most
maintained nursery schools are located in disadvantaged areas, and are strongly focused
on supporting the communities they serve. We do not expect them to offer the 30 hours
entitlement at the expense of disadvantaged children in receipt of the universal entitlement.
We would, however, encourage maintained nursery schools to consider a range of options
for being involved in the delivery of the 30 hours entitlement, including working
in partnership with other providers.</p><p> </p>
|
 |
