The important role that ECE plays in adolescence and beyond

On TV One’s Q + A programme recently, the Prime Minister’s Chief Science Advisor, Professor Sir Peter Gluckman was interviewed about what needs to happen to ensure young people get through adolescence successfully. The key point Sir Peter made was that the Government must invest more in quality early childhood education. Do this and we will as a nation, reap the rewards in the future. Sir Peter was adamant that expenditure in the early years creates savings in the future.

We agree. Investment in early childhood education is an investment in our future. Numerous studies show that money spent on providing quality early childhood education represents savings down the line. All qualified and registered teachers and good teacher: child ratios are critical quality factors. There is plenty of evidence to show children who attend these services are more likely to stay longer and be successful at school, make more money, and make a positive contribution to society.

Sir Peter also reiterated the importance of the first six years of life, in shaping our young people and preparing them to be contributing members of society. If we want to create children who as teenagers and adults are more resilient, responsible and able to make sound judgments, the focus must be on the first six years of life. We believe this to be true, and this is one of the reasons we place such importance on having 100% qualified teachers who can provide a quality high education programme based on our world renowned early childhood education curriculum.

So my question is, if the Prime Minister’s Science Advisor knows this, then why has the Government elected to cut funding to early childhood education?