The National Childcare Strategy
The National Childcare Strategy was launched in May 1998. The strategy is about supporting families in their search for good quality childcare. The NCS aims to tackle the problems of finding childcare places, costs and the nation wide quality of care.
The NCS will insure that the quality of care is improved, more families can afford childcare, that there are more childcare places available and that there is more information available on choices.
The government now recognizes the important role that childminders have been playing in the care and education of children. Registered childminders are delivering the governments National Childcare Strategy and meeting the needs of children and families in today's busy society.
What this means for parents
- Parents can go to work knowing that their children are safe and being well looked after.
- Help is available for childcarers, with training to improve provision.
- More childcare places will be available, including free education places for four year olds.
- Parents will be able to find advice and information easily.
What this means for childminders
- New opportunities to attend training courses.
- Some sponsored training places.
- The opportunity to become part of a quality assured childminding network.
- To become accredited as providers of early years education as part of Local Early Years Development plans.
"The contribution made by childminders is, and will continue to be, vital." - Margaret Hodge MBE MP, Minister for employment and Equal opportunities.
Contact NCS
For more information on the NCS contact:
Childcare Consultation,
Dfee,
Level 4,
Caxton House,
Tothill Street,
London
SW1H 9NA
email: childcare.unit@dfee.gov.uk
