Under fives in compulsory schooling, 1908 and 1988. How far have we come?

Abstract

Since the Education Act of 1870 it has been compulsory for children to start attending school after their fifth birthday. However, there have always been children below the age of five in lesser and greater numbers attending school. This paper examines the conditions for under fives in school, both at the beginning of the century and now and compares the findings and recommendations of Government Reports. Significant is the similarity of conditions, findings and recommendations from 1908 and 1988 and a concensus as to the needs of children aged three and four. At both times nursery education is put forward as the most appropriate form of education for under fives. Given this consensus of opinion it is suggested that compulsory nursery education for four year olds is necessary.

Key Words:

• Nursery education
• early years education
• four year olds
• under fives
• compulsory schooling