AFFORDABILITY, sustainability, and a national shortage of nursery teachers were just some of the criteria on the agenda when a Salisbury nursery received a visit from MP John Glen to discuss their concerns within the early years' sector.

The visit took place on Friday, January 27, and Tops Nursery based on-site at Salisbury District Hospital discussed the underfunding of the sector.

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Tops Nursery states that funding is about 50 per cent less than it should be (according to the government’s own figures) and this meant it was difficult to retain top-quality nursery teachers.

The national shortage of nursery teachers also raises the concern that it will impact the availability of nursery places and could damage children’s education.

Managing director of Tops Day Nurseries, Cheryl Hadland said: “Making childcare more affordable for parents and paying early years staff more can only be good for everyone.

“Even short term, more parents and grandparents could return to work thus paying more tax/receiving fewer benefits and taking pressure off employers with vacancies. Long term the benefits are vast through the children flourishing with a good start.”

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Following a tour of the nursery, room set-ups and resources, John was introduced to one of the parents at the nursery and listened to her concerns about the challenges the local community have to face.

Throughout the visit, they discussed concerns about the importance of apprenticeships, immigration and the requirements for opening up the workforce for skilled migrants currently difficult due to the Department of Education (DofE) processes and slow process at the Home Office.

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Tops Day Nurseries aim for a sustainable approach and discussed land and water pollution being caused by water companies allowing sewage into the environment along with single-use plastic and microplastics affecting the health of people while killing and injuring wildlife.

Unsustainable dairy milk provision, air pollution leading to asthma and lung disease in small children and how the nurseries use bamboo toothbrushes and washable nappies along with the waste cost of disposable nappies were also discussed.  

MP John Glen said: “It was good to meet the dedicated staff and pupils at Tops to discuss early years education and care. It is crucial we give every child the best possible start in life.”