The government have set out new plans to get children ready for school. They said they have "clear direction for local councils and schools as part of the government’s Plan for Change". This will include statutory targets for every council to make child development a priority, and a new tool to give schools smart insights into how to target support in crucial reception year.
Lynn Perry, CEO of Barnardo’s said, “Not being ready for school can be profoundly harmful for children, risking lower academic performance alongside higher likelihood of persistent absence.
“Family hubs play a key role in helping prepare children for school. In Peterborough, Barnardo’s ‘Start Summer Programme’ helps to equip children with the basic skills they need to thrive - like dressing themselves and using a knife and fork. We also make sure they have a healthy meal, because we know many local families are feeling the impact of the cost of living.
“The long-term impact of programmes like ‘Start Summer’ can be profound. With children and families facing so many challenges – from a lack of school-readiness to poor mental health, we believe every community needs a family hub, and we’re calling on the government to make this a central commitment in their Child Poverty Strategy, backed by sufficient funding in the autumn budget.”