WIREDGOV

Where can I find information about the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS)?
The Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) is about setting the standards for learning and development through play, and care for children, from birth to five. The EYFS built on and replaced the statutory Curriculum Guidance for the Foundation Stage, the non-statutory Birth to Three Matters framework, and elements of regulatory frameworks in the National Standards for Under 8s Day Care and Childminding. You can access the EYFS themes, principles and materials from http://nationalstrategies.standards.dcsf.gov.uk/earlyyears. If this is not what you are looking for or if you want more information you can contact the Department by email at info@dcsf.gsi.gov.uk or telephone on 0870 000 2288.

How many looked after children are there?
As of 31 March 2009, there were 60,900, which is two per cent more than last year's figure of 59,400 although relatively unchanged compared to 2005 (61,000).

How many children were adopted last year?
3300 children looked after were adopted at 31 March 2009.

How many children ceased to be looked after in the year ending 31 March 2009?
24,700 which is an increase of one per cent from the previous year's figure of 24,400 and a decrease of five per cent from the 2004-05 figure of 3,800.

How many Sure Start Children's Centres are there?
In 2009, there were over 3000, providing integrated services to over 2.4 million under-5s and their families. This year, it's hoped that there will be 3500 which will reach all children under five and their families.

How many registered childcare places are there?
There are 1.3 million places.

Journalists: find out more
Call our Newsdesk on: 020 7925 6789. This is staffed from 8:00am to 7:00pm, Monday to Friday.

Members of the public: find out more
Call our Public Communications Unit (PCU) on 0870 000 2288.