I am very concerned by the impression conveyed to readers by your article on the foundation phase last week.
The Assembly government remains fully committed to the roll-out of the FP from September and to giving children in Wales the best start to their education with this pioneering new programme.
We have seen no evidence of “months of protest” over its introduction. There has been, and still is, widespread and enthusiastic support from local authorities, school and early years professionals, parents and children.
The roll-out of any major new initiative is challenging. The government is working closely with the Welsh Local Government Association and the Association of Directors of Education in Wales to address concerns about funding. Meetings have been held with every local authority in Wales over the past fortnight.
The minister has set up a working group with key partners. It will meet in early May to consider the issues arising from those discussions and to look at the roll-out.
Dr Dennis Gunning, Acting director, Department for children, education, lifelong learning and skills
News, page 3.
