Policy - a divided context? Early childhood education and care in England

The UK consists of four countries: England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland. This research project was conducted in England and the information given in this chapter relates only to England, which has a highly centralised and inspected early years education and care framework. The Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) statutory framework sets standards for the learning, development and care of children from birth to five years old. This is a framework rather than a curriculum and applies to all early years settings, including nurseries, childminders and also to the reception classes in school. The EYFS has clear statements about the importance of providing equality of opportunity for all children, ensuring that practice is inclusive and anti-discriminatory. The Office for Standards in Education, Children’s Services and Skills regulates all services that care and provide education for young children from birth to age 18.