Agenda item

(a)  That it be noted that current childcare sufficiency information indicated that there would be insufficient childcare places in some wards across Slough by the summer of 2018.

(b)  That the need to prioritise the development of early years and childcare provision in those wards where demand for places is projected to exceed supply be noted.

(c)  That the need for additional early years provision for children with SEND be noted.

(d)  That the intention to publish an Early Years Strategy by September 2018 be noted.

The Lead Member for Children & Education introduced a report informing the Cabinet of the outcomes of the annual Early Years Childcare Sufficiency Assessment carried out as part of the statutory duty to secure sufficient place for eligible children in Slough.

There was a high and growing demand for places in Slough and the Council was working closely with providers to ensure sufficient places were available.  The assessment highlighted that there would be insufficient places in some wards by the summer of 2018, although assurance was provided that action was being taken to expand provision to meet the identified shortfall.  Demand for places could change rapidly, or may not be fully taken up, and the Council worked closely with the sector to address demand pressure where they arose by making additional places available.  The particular issues for children with special educational needs and disabilities were highlighted.  It was intended that an Early Years Strategy would be published by September 2018.

The Cabinet noted the report and work underway to address the identified gap in provision from the summer of 2018.

Resolved –

(a)  That it be noted that current childcare sufficiency information indicated that there would be insufficient childcare places in some wards across Slough by the summer of 2018.

(b)  That the need to prioritise the development of early years and childcare provision in those wards where demand for places is projected to exceed supply be noted.

(c)  That the need for additional early years provision for children with SEND be noted.

(d)  That the intention to publish an Early Years Strategy by September 2018 be noted.