What’s new
Keep up to date with the latest news and updates from the Early Years and Childcare Service. You can subscribe to receive a weekly email digest of new updates (sent every Friday morning). You can also receive the same updates by following us on Facebook.
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Early years inclusion virtual drop in consultations
Our new model of weekly, locality-based virtual ‘drop‑in’ consultations have now started. 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!
Play skills development morning – 30 March in Exeter
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.
Food and nutrition in early years – survey
Devon County Council’s Public Health team are launching a survey with a chance to win £250 to spend on food preparation or play equipment for your setting. Please complete the survey by 20 February.
Using music to support babies development with Evolve Music
Free half day conference hosted by The Early Years South West Stronger Practice Hub taking place on 27 March (1pm – 3.30pm) at Exeter / Crediton (venue tbc).
Early years and childcare job adverts – w/c 19/01/2026
View the latest jobs in early years and childcare.
Funding Friday
It’s Funding Friday and this week we have funding streams from: ‘Fat Beehive Foundation’ and ‘Ironmongers’ Company’.
Starting next week – early years inclusion virtual drop in consultations
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!
Last chance for wraparound childcare funding – applications close soon!
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.
Early years funding rates proposal 2026-27
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.
Early Years South West Stronger Partnership Hub leadership network – sensory sensitivity in early years’ settings
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.