Source · Select Committees · Education Committee
Recommendation 34
34
Accepted
ELSEC and NELI initiatives require sustained commitment and resources to avoid temporary gains.
Conclusion
ELSEC and NELI are positive initiatives, but far more must be done to sustain and build on the progress they are achieving. Without ongoing commitment and resources, any gains risk being temporary and insufficient to address long-term needs. (Conclusion, Paragraph 164)
Government Response Summary
The government commits to continuing fully funded access to the NELI programme until AY 2028/29, funding specialist early language leads, and ensuring education and healthcare providers collaborate on evidence-based early interventions, indicating ongoing commitment and resources.
Government Response
Accepted
HM Government
Accepted
We will continue to ensure every reception class benefits from fully funded access to proven programmes such as the Nuffield Early Language Intervention (NELI) – funding for the NELI programme will continue for a further 4 academic years until the end of AY 2028/29. We will also fund specialist early language leads in local areas to give hands-on support and training to early years educators and settings. Reception staff will also be able to access specialist early language lead support. As set out in the 10 Year Health Plan, building on the successes of programmes such as Early Language Support for Every Child (ELSEC), we will ensure that education and healthcare providers work together with other local services to plan and deliver evidence-based early interventions for children. An independent evaluation of the ELSEC programme is taking place. This will explore the overall impact of the ‘test and learn’ programme and provide a robust evidence base to inform future decisions and next steps in shaping inclusive education and early support systems across all local areas.