Showcase Magazine Spring 2026 - Flipbook - Page 2
Spring 2026
NURSERY NEWS
Government to publish first-ever guidance on screen
use for under-fives
The Government will publish its first-ever guidance on screen use
for under-fives this April, following research showing that excessive
screen time may negatively impact young children’s language
development. A major study found that two-year-olds with the
highest screen use could say significantly fewer words than those
with lower use, although screens are now part of daily life for 98% of
children. The new guidance will offer practical, non-judgemental
advice to help parents balance screen use with activities like talking,
reading and play. Early years sector leaders have welcomed the
move but emphasised the importance of also recognising the role of
early years settings and promoting digital literacy and online safety.
Read more: https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/articles/c041e9xn3leo
Government commits £200m to new SEND training
for early years staff and teachers
The Government has announced a £200 million investment in
new SEND training for early years staff, teachers, and teaching
assistants to improve inclusive practice and better support
children with additional needs. The flexible training, launching
next year, will focus on practical strategies, child development,
assistive technology and working with families. A new free CPD
programme specifically for early years practitioners will also be
introduced. Sector leaders have welcomed the investment,
highlighting its potential to improve staff confidence and
inclusion, while stressing the importance of ensuring adequate
funding and support for settings to deliver high-quality SEND
provision.
Read more here: https://www.gov.uk/government/news/200million-landmark-send-teacher-training-programme
Bristol nursery worker guilty of rape and sexual
assault of toddlers
A former nursery worker has been found guilty of multiple sexual
offences against toddlers at a nursery in Bristol. Nathan Bennett, 30,
was convicted of rape, sexual assault, and assault by penetration
involving children aged two and three while employed at the
setting. The offences were uncovered after CCTV footage raised
safeguarding concerns and was reported to police, leading to his
arrest and a six-month investigation. The nursery has since closed,
and the case has prompted renewed focus on safeguarding
procedures and the importance of robust systems to protect
children in early years settings.
Read more here:
https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/articles/cly3yn4kjwzo
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