Early Years and Childcare Special Newsletter
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Tuesday 10 February 2026
The Department for Education has now published the updated “Early education and childcare statutory guidance for local authorities – February 2026”, which applies from 1 April 2026. This can be accessed on the GOV.UK web page.
This guidance explains the responsibilities of local authorities under the Childcare Act 2016 and the Childcare Act 2006 and helps guide how early years and childcare provision is planned, supported, and delivered across England.
Providers should be aware that Ofsted inspection changes referenced in Section A3 (Quality) and paragraphs A4.15 to A4.21 and D.2 to D.3 take effect earlier, from 9 February 2026, ahead of the full implementation date.
As you are aware, our current Early Years Funded Entitlement Provider Declaration is due to expire on 31 March 2026. We are working at pace to review the updated statutory guidance and ensure this is reflected in the updated Provider Declaration.
Further information will be shared at the earliest opportunity.
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