Information for childcare providers

Our new model of weekly, locality-based virtual ‘drop‑in’ consultations will begin next week. These sessions offer a solution‑focused opportunity to discuss any questions or concerns relating to an individual child’s development, or to explore aspects of SEND practice and provision within your setting. Please book your place now!

Time is running out to secure school aged wraparound childcare funding – a vital opportunity for schools, PVIs, and childminders to start or expand childcare services. Applications close on Wednesday 4 February 2026.

The Department for Education have published the Early Years Funding rates for 2026-27. The Funding team are running 2 online sessions for providers to talk through the funding rates and the funding formula. Dates are: 16 January at 10am and 19 January at 7.35pm.

Join other leaders for this monthly leadership network. Led by Heidi Price, CEO of early years settings and the Director of the Early Years South West Stronger Partnership Hub. Monday 26th January 2026 (2pm – 3pm) – online.

We have received reports from local providers that they have received a suspicious looking ‘phishing’ text message posing as Ofsted, with an urgent alert telling them that their Ofsted Registration has been ‘suspended’ and asking the recipient to click on a link.

Safer Internet Day 2026 will take place on 10 February 2026 with the theme “Smart tech, safe choices – Exploring the safe and responsible use of AI.”
Get involved and register your support!

A fully funded half day event for Devon school age childcare settings who provide wraparound childcare, Holiday Activities and Food and access to Early Access Breakfast Club. We will delve into understanding the importance of play skills in a child’s development and continue to celebrate school aged children’s play in Devon.

Join us for Sound Starts, a practical and inspiring Early Years music CPD event designed to help educators, practitioners, and musicians build confidence in delivering inclusive music experiences for young children. Tuesday 10th March 2026 at Future Skills Centre, Exeter.

View the latest jobs in early years and childcare.

It’s Funding Friday and this week we have funding streams from: ‘The Giving Machine: Community Grants’, ‘Small grants for village halls – Defra and ACRE’, ‘CLA Charitable Trust grants’ and ‘Masonic Charitable Foundation’.