Education Law Digest – Summer 2025: Recent Guidance

Early education and childcare statutory guidance (effective from 1 April 2025)

The updated guidance supersedes the April 2024 guidance and outlines the local authorities duties pursuant to the Childcare Acts of 2006 and 2016.

Key provisions of the guidance include:

Free childcare for children

• 9 months to 2 years: 570 hours per year from September 2024 increasing to 1,140 hours by September 2025 for eligible working parents.
• Disadvantaged 2 year olds: 570 hours per year for families receiving certain benefits.
• All 3 – 4 year olds – 570 hours per year from September 2024 increasing to 1,140 hours for eligible working parents starting in September 2025.

Support for providers

• Local authorities must offer information, advice and training to childcare providers, especially those rated less than ‘Good’ by Ofsted.
• Support includes guidance on meeting Early Years Foundation Stage Requirements, safeguarding, and supporting children with special educational needs and disabilities.

Sufficient and Flexible Childcare

• Local authorities are tasked with ensuring sufficient, accessible, and affordable childcare to enable parents to work, study or train.
• This includes promoting wraparound care and holiday provision, and addressing barriers to provider expansion.

Parental Information

• Parents must be informed about eligibility criteria, application processes, and the availability of free places.
• Information should be updated regularly and include details on how to assess the quality of provision and how personal data will be used.

The updates aim to enhance the accessibility and quality of early education and childcare, ensuring that all eligible children receive the support they are entitled to.

Early education and childcare statutory guidance (gov.uk)