"We are pleased that the Government has recognised the importance of high quality provision and welcome new proposals that allow local authorities to continue to reward quality provision with higher funding rates. However, this alone will not be enough to bring about the improvements across the sector that are needed to genuinely support quality improvement. The Government must start gathering information on the cost of providing high quality provision to inform funding rates in future years.

"Improving the quality of early education is not just about how much funding providers receive per child, but is also about the support that providers receive from local authorities – for example, training and development for their staff, and being able to draw from multi-disciplinary support when a child or family needs it. While the principle of more funding reaching the frontline of delivery is positive, it is important to recognise and fund the vital role that local authorities play in driving up quality locally. We welcome the additional flexibility for local authorities to ensure the supply of free places and would urge ministers to make sure that local authorities can continue to support high quality integrated provision for the most disadvantaged children.

"Levelling the funding rate between providers, whatever their sector, offers an opportunity to also level expectations on the quality and accessibility of the provision. If maintained, private, voluntary and independent providers are all now receiving the same level of funding, we would like their staff to have the same pay and qualifications, and for children with special educational needs and disabilities to be able to access and have a positive experience with all providers.