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By Rachel Lawler

 

83% of school leaders believe that ‘school-readiness’ is an issue, according to a new survey from the National Association of Head Teachers (NAHT) and Family and Childcare Trust. School leaders said that speech, language and communication skills were a particular concern, as well as the social, emotional and physical development of some children.

 

The NAHT and Family and Childcare trust acknowledged the problems surrounding ‘school-readiness’ and its interpretation. It also noted that children develop at different rates and in different ways, meaning that the ways in which they are ready for school will vary.

 

However, 97% of survey respondents said that speech, language and communication issues were a problem and 94% said that personal, social and emotional development was a concern.

 

67% said that one of the likely reasons behind these problems was a failure to identify and support additional needs early enough. Funding was highlighted as a key barrier to school readiness, with 88% citing this reason and 56% agreeing that it was the biggest barrier they face.

 

The NAHT and Family and Childcare Trust are now asking the government to prioritise funding to support children in the early years. Paul Whiteman, general secretary at NAHT, said: “We want to see extra money for education, including early education before children start school, and renewed investment in critical services for families. Without proper investment, the youngest and most vulnerable in our society will be starting off behind, with uncertain chances of catching up.”

 

Neil Leitch, chief executive of the Alliance, commented: “We at the Alliance firmly believe that children develop at their own pace and that policy focus should be on ensuring that schools are ready for children, and not the other way around.”

 

He welcomed the call for additional funding, adding: “The government talks a lot about social mobility and life chances, but if children are being left behind as the result of a continued lack to investment, it’s all just meaningless rhetoric.”

 

Shadow minister for the early years Tracy Brabin said that the survey was “yet more evidence” of a problem developing under the Conservative government. She said: “It is now incumbent on the government to ensure that their spending on childcare goes towards high quality early years education, supporting children to get the best start in life.”