Every child is born curious, with the potential to grow to be a happy, healthy adult. Solid foundations developed in the early years are the basis of later achievement. A child’s development by 22 months serves as a strong predictor of educational outcomes at age 26.
Almost half of the attainment gap at GSCEs is there to see before children start school, and more than a quarter of children start year one of their education already at a huge developmental disadvantage to their peers. We know that intervening early saves money. Research shows that for every £1 invested in pre-school education, £7 would be required in adolescence to have the same impact. And every £1 invested in the early years saves £13 in later interventions.
We will work to ensure that there is the widest possible understanding of the science of early child development and the long-term impact that early experiences can have on the life chances of every child. Public definitions of educational success focus on key assessment points at 11, 16 and 18 years of age. We believe that ensuring every child is ready for school at 4 is not only important to success at these later ages but is also critical to giving every child an equal opportunity to fulfil their potential.
Kindred² (www.kindredsquared.org.uk)To get in touch, please email grace@kindredsquared.org.uk
