New research commissioned by the Royal Foundation Centre for Early Childhood has highlighted a low level of understanding of the importance of the Early Years sector, leading to a need for investment across the South West and wider UK as a whole.
The research, from a survey of 4,682 adults about their views on early childhood development, found that just 17% of those questioned understood the importance of the early years relative to other development stages.
The survey also found that 91% agreed the early years are important for children, with 70% confirming they thought it should be more of a priority.
As a leading Early Years recruitment consultancy covering Bristol, Bath, Somerset, Wiltshire, Gloucester and Cheltenham, we believe that the new research and published findings are a critical step forward in education.
We also hope to see more investment in the Early Years sector across the region, as the South West desperately needs more candidates working in the field to support the ongoing challenges faced by nurseries after Covid.
The Duchess of Cambridge who spearheads the Royal Foundation commented:
"Our experienced in early childhood fundamentally impact our whole life and set the foundation for how we go on to thrive as individuals with one another, as a community and as a society."
"The findings present us with huge opportunities and there is more we can all do. Every member of society can play a key role, whether that is direct with a child or by investing in the adults around them - the parents, the carers, the early years workforce and more."
Other key findings from the research included:
90% of those questioned felt that the early years are important.
Less than 20% recognised the unique importance of the 0-5 year period.
70% felt that the early years should be more of a priority for society.
To find out more about the Royal Foundation, please visit here.
Those who already have relevant industry experience and qualifications, and who are looking for permanent nursery agency work in the South West, please visit here.
We are always available to have an informal chat with new or experienced nursery job candidates and can be reached on 0117 930 4000 or by visiting here.