The new government's approach towards the early years and family sectors is being made clearer. Today's post is simply a collection of links to news stories which outline some of the most important changes:
- Last week saw the publication of The Coalition: Our Programme for Government; sections 14 and 26-28 should be of particular interest to regular site visitors
- All payments to Child Trust funds will be scrapped by January
- As part of government cuts, £670 million will be cut from education spending, although schools and Sure Start are protected
- Many quangos will be most affected by the cuts; Becta is to close, while the QCDA, the Children's Workforce Development Council, the School Food Trust and other organisations will all have their budgets reduced
- The National Children's Bureau has criticised the decision to axe the Play strategy
- It's been confirmed that parents will be given the opportunity to set up their own 'free schools'