News category Archives

The key announcements from NDNA Conference 2026

Several high profile sector figures spoke at NDNA’s conference in Liverpool on Friday 5 June, with some using it as a platform to make important new announcements.

NDNA welcomes DfE action to boost graduate early years teachers in disadvantaged communities

NDNA has welcomed the Department for Education’s latest measures to strengthen the early years workforce, including a new £4,500 annual bonus for qualified nursery teachers in disadvantaged communities, the expansion of nursery excellence hubs and new school-nursery partnership grants.

NDNA celebrates excellence at 2026 Conference and Awards

The National Day Nurseries Association (NDNA) brought together nursery leaders, owners and early years professionals at its 2026 Conference and Awards.

Families need action on childcare places in first 100 days

Following lobbying by National Day Nurseries Association (NDNA) Scotland, MSPs have agreed a motion in Parliament for the Scottish Government to work with local authorities to ensure families can access childcare placements across council boundaries.

Government asks Competition and Markets Authority to look at nursery charges

The Government has asked the Competition and Markets Authority to look into the way nurseries operate, in particular regarding deposits and “additional charges”.

Charity celebrates National Numeracy Day in Maths Champions nurseries

Tim Mclachlan visits at Toy Box Day Nursery

New Welsh Government has ambitious childcare plans

Wales has voted in a new First Minister Rhun ap Iorwerth who has announced his new cabinet. His Deputy First Minister, Sioned Williams, will also have the brief for delivering Plaid Cymru’s expansion plans.

New education/childcare minister in Scotland

John Swinney MSP returns as Scotland’s First Minister following the elections earlier in May – and has now appointed his Cabinet team.

DfE clarifies safe sleeping requirements

The Department for Education with the Lullaby Trust has written an article clarifying the planned updates to the EYFS on keeping children safe while sleeping.

Meeting with stakeholders in West Lothian

The Scottish Greens attended NDNA’s member nursery, First Adventures, as part of their election campaign. NDNA Scotland took part in a meeting with the co-leaders to raise awareness of the challenging situation in West Lothian where the council has decided to no longer fund ELC places for children who live across the boundary, and lobby them for change.