Official data published by the Department for Education has confirmed that children in Milton Keynes are among the best prepared for school in the country, placing the city in the top 10% of local authorities in England for early years development.
In Milton Keynes, 76.4% of five-year-olds have achieved a ‘Good Level of Development’, which measures 12 learning goals across communication, literacy, mathematics, communication and language, physical development, and social and emotional development. This is significantly above the current national average of 72.3%, and above the government ambition for 75% of children to reach this standard by 2028.
The national data shows that Milton Keynes ranked third out of 19 local authorities in the South East for children's school readiness. Children who are well prepared for school are more likely to settle quickly, attend regularly and achieve expected standards in reading, writing and maths.
Milton Keynes City Council has invested heavily in early years support through its Family Centres, children's libraries, targeted language programmes, and work with nurseries, pre-schools and childminders. 83% of eligible two-year-olds in Milton Keynes are now accessing funded early education places, well above the national average.
“It's fantastic to see these excellent results formally confirmed by the Department for Education. Being ranked third in the South East and among the top-performing councils in England reflects the hard work of families, schools and preschools, nurseries, childminders and our early years teams, all working together to give children the best possible start in life.
We know that children who are ready for school are more likely to thrive academically, build positive relationships and develop the confidence they need to succeed. We'll continue investing in services that help every child in Milton Keynes reach their full potential."
Families can find details of their nearest City Council Family Centre at www.milton-keynes.gov.uk/family-centres whilst information about free early years education for eligible two-year-olds is available at www.timefortwos.com