Education Committee Launches Early Years Inquiry

Overview

The Education Committee has begun a new inquiry focused on the early years sector, emphasising support for its workforce, improved access to services for families, and enhanced developmental outcomes for young children. Submissions are invited from sector professionals and academics to explore the impact of recent childcare entitlement expansions and evaluate current government strategies.

Main Areas of Inquiry

Workforce Sustainability

The inquiry examines recruitment, retention, and training of early years staff. It also considers ways to make the sector an attractive career and analyses opportunities for pay progression.

Access and Affordability

MPs will review families’ ability to find affordable and suitable childcare, address the rise of ‘childcare deserts’, and promote inclusivity, especially for children with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND).

Quality and Outcomes

The Committee will assess how policy changes have affected the quality of provision, the effectiveness of assessment metrics, and Ofsted’s role in maintaining high standards.

Government Initiatives

The inquiry will consider the “Giving Every Child the Best Start in Life Strategy”, including expanded Best Start Family Hubs, teacher incentives, regular Ofsted inspections, and improved links between nurseries and schools. The Committee will evaluate progress towards the target of 75% of children achieving a good level of development by the end of the Early Years Foundation Stage by 2028.

Specific Issues Covered

• Decline in Registered Childminders

• Differences in Workforce Challenges by Provider Type

• Impact of Reforms on Quality and Access

• Measurement of Family Awareness and Trust

Chair’s Comment

Helen Hayes MP, the Committee Chair, notes that the inquiry will review reforms, outcomes for children and families, and consult experts about strategies to improve results and reverse negative trends, including declines in children meeting key developmental milestones.

Call for Evidence

The Committee welcomes responses on workforce challenges, access and affordability, policy impacts, and early years outcome metrics. Written evidence should be submitted via their website by 11 October 2025.