Latest news, policy and events
Nurseries need funding boosted to pay statutory wage rises from April
The Chancellor announced increases to the National Living and Minimum Wages on Tuesday 25 November, a day ahead of Budget Day.
NDNA called for the government to boost funding rates to match wage increases and maintain pay differences.
Here are the new National Minimum Wage/National Living Wage rates from April 2026:
- From 1 April 2026, the NLW will rise by 4.1% to £12.71 per hour for eligible workers aged 21 and over. This will increase the gross annual earnings of a full-time worker on the NLW by £900.
- The NMW rate for 18–20-year-olds will also increase by 8.5% to £10.85 per hour, narrowing the gap with the NLW.
- The NMW for 16–17-year-olds and those on apprenticeships will increase by 6% to £8 per hour.
Government Pulse survey shows most nursery costs higher than income
The latest Government Pulse survey of providers from 2024-25 showed that nurseries are still under a lot of financial stress.
Read more
12 days of myNDNA
Our 12 days of myNDNA are here to bring festive inspiration straight to your nursery. Each day includes a different activity or tip that helps children explore, create and celebrate in a fun and inclusive way.
Try our festive activities
FREE 200 online CPD training course bundle
Make huge savings before Christmas
Christmas is around the corner! To support our members during a challenging period of rising costs, NDNA is offering a free 200 course bundle to help upskill your nursery staff.
This 200 free course CPD bundle contains 38 course topics designed to help improve practitioner skills in their day-to-day work with children. This includes mandatory training courses you are required to complete to make sure your setting is compliant.
Order your FREE 200 course bundle
Supporting nurseries across the UK and overseas
NDNA England
Supporting nurseries in England to provide high-quality, sustainable childcare.
NDNA in England
NDNA Scotland
We support Scottish nurseries and are a strategic partner to the Government.
NDNA Scotland: Scotland childcare and early years support
NDNA Cymru
NDNA has a committed and enthusiastic member base representing Wales nurseries.
NDNA Cymru – supporting nurseries in Wales
NDNA International
We support nurseries internationally. Find out more about NDNA international.
NDNA international membership
For support when you need it most…
NDNA gives you the reassuring, expert advice and time-saving resources that allow you to focus on what you do best, caring for children in early years.
Join NDNA for:
- A stronger voice on issues crucial to your business
- Time-saving resources and expert, reassuring advice
- Access to more information, plus training and ideas to help improve practice
- As well as great savings on nursery essentials.
