An evaluation of 14 trials delivering 1140 hours of government-funded early learning and childcare

This document describes an evaluation of the early learning and childcare (ELC) delivery trials in Scotland, which tested various models for providing 1140 hours of ELC with the goal of informing the national expansion program. The evaluation, conducted by the Care Inspectorate and Education Scotland, used methods such as structured conversations, joint evaluative reviews, and local authority self-evaluations to assess aspects like quality, capacity, workforce, uptake, flexibility, scalability, and outcomes for children and parents. The results indicated the importance of clear communication, qualified staff recruitment, flexible offerings, and professional learning for the ELC workforce. Challenges included improving mealtime experiences, outdoor setting provisions, and recruitment in rural areas, especially for Gaelic Medium Education. No single model was identified as superior; instead, the trials emphasized the need for continuous improvement and sharing of effective practices. The evaluation also highlighted the positive impact of extended placements and new approaches on children's experiences and development. **This summary was written by an AI model and therefore should not be considered a definitive summary of the report. If you are aware of inaccuracies, please email evaluation.registry@cabinetoffice.gov.uk.**

Description

• Lead department: The Scottish Government (The Scottish Government)
• Evaluation stage: A complete evaluation report
• Other departments: No other departments listed
• Evaluation types: Impact evaluation; Process evaluation
• Impact methods: Theory-based methods
• Theory-based methods: Qualitative comparative analysis (QCA)
• Process methods: Individual interviews; Qualitative observational studies; Surveys and polling
• Grant information: This intervention is not distributing funding via a grant
• Government Major Project information: This intervention is not a major project
• Policies: No policies provided

Event Dates

• Event Name: Publication of final results
• Event date: May 2018

Evaluation Costs

• Cost: Not provided

Evaluation sharing

• Link(s) to published report(s): Yes
• Links to evaluation plans: No link provided
• Findings: Not provided
• Permission to share confirmed: Yes