The overall assessment is that, according to the data available, Bexley has sufficient childcare to meet current needs, and to support the continued expansion of the entitlement funding to children of working parents. However, it is recognised that most of the provision is delivered by private and independent businesses (including childminders), so there may be other considerations coming into play that will prevent the maximisation of places. For example, providers may choose to limit places due to staffing or venue issues, or parents may not find their first choice of provision available.

It is evident that there is a growing need—and consequently, an increased demand—for more specialist places for children with higher and more complex special educational needs. Previously, children requiring spaces typically had low or emerging needs; however, we are now seeing a shift, with more children presenting with complex needs.

As SEND in children exists on a spectrum, there is currently an insufficient number of adaptable places to accommodate those with more complex requirements. This highlights the crucial role of the Early Years Team in providing guidance, information and advice on pathways for support, as well as the practicalities of delivering Early Years provision for children with SEND. More children are being identified early with the use of language screeners and timely referrals, and evidence shows that a growing number of settings feel confident and prepared to support these needs due to increased staff training and expertise, supported by the Local Authority Area SENCOs and Specialist Officers.

The ongoing upskilling of staff—delivered through targeted training and specialist support from Early Years Area SENCos and Specialist SEN Officers—combined with the expansion of SEN places across a range of settings, is expected to increase the availability of adaptable provision capable of responding to the growing and emerging needs of children.

Many schools already offer sufficient breakfast and after-school club places, and parents tell us that this is currently enough. However, the Wraparound Programme has driven an increase in places aimed at supporting parents who may wish to go back to work or training and may take up provision in the future.

We recognise that the landscape of childcare in the borough will likely continue to change due to the government’s expansion initiatives and the Best Start in Life strategy. The Bexley Early Years Team is well-prepared to offer information, advice, guidance, and training to support providers and parents.

The Early Years Team can be contacted at earlyyears@bexley.gov.uk for further information.