Have your say – on the future of early years space requirements

The Department for Education (DfE) wants to hear from you as part of a new consultation that could transform how childcare settings use space – both indoors and outdoors.

DfE aim is to support more children to thrive and are exploring ways to help providers offer more high-quality childcare places. One key area under review? Outdoor space – and how it could count towards the number of children you can care for.

DfE recognise that outdoor play is more than just fun, it boosts children’s physical health, mental wellbeing, and problem-solving skills. Yet under current Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) requirements, only indoor space is formally recognised when calculating how many children a setting can accommodate.

The DfE have launched the Space requirements in early years childcare settings in England – GOV.UK open until 11 July 2025.
They are asking for your views on whether outdoor “free-flow” space should be included in space calculations – and how this could work in practice.

This consultation is a direct response to feedback from providers where, 70% of respondents to our November 2023 Pulse survey said they would make better use of outdoor areas if the rules were more flexible. DfE have estimated 60,000 new childcare places will be needed by September 2025, your input is very more important

DfE also seeking your thoughts on how “free-flow” should be defined, and whether there should be a cap on the number of additional places created through this flexibility.

Make your voice heard.

Complete the online survey and encourage your colleagues, parents, and local networks to do the same: Space requirements in early years childcare settings in England – GOV.UK