Milton Keynes children are better prepared for school, according to new figures
New figures show five-year-olds in Milton Keynes are better prepared for school than pupils in most other parts of the UK, with the city beating government-set targets for its work in children’s 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.
Tests for these goals are carried out at the end of the reception year by teachers.
The city’s results are about 8% above the national average of 68.3% - and more than two years in advance. Milton Keynes has already beaten the national target of 75% of all five-year-olds reaching a Good Level of Development by 2028.
The City Council has a dedicated early years programme and works with nurseries, pre-schools and childminders to help children develop important skills so they will be ready for school.
It has also invested in a new children’s library in the city centre, a new music programme – designed to strengthen children’s communication and language skills – and set up support for children with English as an additional language.
In addition, ten family centres in the city have expanded what’s on offer – to make sure more families can get support from council, health and other services close to home – and families have been made aware of how to make the most of free early education through the council’s Time for Twos scheme.
In Milton Keynes, 83% of eligible two-year-olds now have a funded early education place of up to 15 hours per week – that’s 11% higher than the national average.
Being prepared for school helps children adapt to new routines and builds their confidence and social skills as well as helping them academically.
Just last year, reports showed that in Milton Keynes, primary school children have fewer absences from schools than in neighbouring areas – partly a result of being well prepared.
Generally, children who miss fewer days are more likely to reach expected standards in reading, writing and maths.
Councillor Peter Cannon, Cabinet Member for Children and Young People said: “We have high aspirations for every child and young person in Milton Keynes, and these record results show what can be achieved when we work closely with families and early years professionals.
“We want every child to have access to great early years settings and schools that give them the best possible start in life. We’re now setting our sights even higher for 2028 and will continue working with our fantastic early years professionals to make sure even more children have the skills and confidence they need to thrive.”
Families can find details of their nearest City Council Family Centre at the City Council website.