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Last week the UK voted to leave the European Union, but the impact of this decision on the early years sector is as yet unclear, said Neil Leitch, Pre-school Learning Alliance chief executive.

 

Given that the UK prime minister has revealed plans to resign, shadow childcare minister Jenny Chapman has stepped down and there are talks of a possible early general election, Neil said that now is clearly a time of great uncertainty for the early years sector.

 

“As such, it is as yet unclear what impact Brexit will have on the development of early years policy, and in particular the progress of the 30-hours offer,” he said.

 

“Given reports that the government’s much-promoted life chances strategy is being placed on hold, we would be very concerned about any further delays on the development of the scheme, and in particular, the promised national early years funding formula.”

 

He added that he hoped that the DfE would be providing further information on the state of play as soon as possible.

 

Neil also commented on the reports of a rise in incidents of racism and xenophobia believed to be fuelled by the EU referendum result.

 

“Now is a good opportunity for us all reflect on the importance of respect, equality and diversity, and to recognise the value of the continued steps that practitioners have taken - and continue to take - to embed these principles into their everyday practice,” he said.