In a significant policy announcement that signals Labour's education priorities, Shadow Education Secretary Bridget Phillipson has revealed plans to resurrect and expand the Sure Start programme, marking a dramatic shift from current government approaches to early years support.
The ambitious proposal comes as Labour prepares for government, with Phillipson declaring that the party will fundamentally "rewire" the Department for Education to place greater emphasis on children's life chances from their earliest years.
Ending the 'Sticking Plaster' Approach
Phillipson didn't hold back in her criticism of current policies, describing them as inadequate "sticking plaster solutions" that fail to address the root causes of educational disadvantage. She emphasised that the expansion of early years support would be central to Labour's mission-driven government.
"For too long, we've seen a decline in the vital early support that families need," Phillipson stated. "Labour recognises that the foundations for future success are built in those crucial early years, and we're committed to ensuring every child gets the best possible start."
From Local Centres to National Mission
The original Sure Start programme, launched under the last Labour government, established children's centres across the country offering integrated services including childcare, health support and parenting advice. However, the programme suffered significant cuts under subsequent Conservative governments, with hundreds of centres closing.
Phillipson's announcement suggests not just a restoration but an enhancement of the programme, though specific details about funding and implementation timeline remain to be clarified as Labour finalises its manifesto commitments.
Departmental Overhaul
The shadow education secretary indicated that the changes would require substantial restructuring within the Department for Education itself. "We need to rewire how government thinks about education," she explained, "moving beyond narrow academic measures to focus on the broader development and wellbeing of children."
This represents one of the most concrete policy directions revealed by Labour's education team as the party positions itself for the next general election, expected within the coming year.
