Councils called on to engage with new childcare quality network

The National Children’s Bureau yesterday called on councils to engage with a new network for bodies involved in promoting standards in early years and childcare services.

The Department for Education and Skills-funded Quality Improvement Network will take over from the Investors in Children scheme, which previously endorsed quality assurance schemes for the sector.

Sue Owen, director of NCB’s early childhood unit, said councils, who under the Childcare Act 2006 face a new duty to secure sufficient childcare provision, should engage with the network.

She said: “Local authorities are key to improving childcare provision and we must ensure that they continue to get this support from government.”