The Executive also works with the Scottish Social Services Council to see that the early years and childcare workforce are appropriately qualified, and from 2006, registered to work in the sector. The Executive is investing nearly £37m into workforce development between 2000 and 2007 to encourage early years and childcare staff to become qualified and undertake further training. The National Review of the Early Years and Childcare Workforce, commenced in June 2004 and aims to improve employment opportunities for staff and help raise the status of the sector. The main report of the Review and the Executive Response - Investing in Children's Futures - were published in August 2006.
Investing in Children's Futures sets out the Minister's action plan for the continued improvement and development of the early years and childcare sector. Consultation on the Review and Investing in Children' Futures was carried out between August and December 2006. Views were analysed by independent consultants and a summary research findings paper - Research Findings No.25 - was published (web only) in March 2007 along with a full analysis report.