Whiteheath Infant and Nursery School in Hillingdon is set to expand its admissions to include two-year-olds, with the change proposed to be implemented no later than September 2026. The decision was agreed at a Cabinet meeting on Thursday, January 15, 2026, aiming to address a growing demand for funded early years education and childcare places, particularly for two-year-olds now entitled to up to 15 hours of funded provision.
Councillor Susan O'Brien, Cabinet Member for Children, Families and Education, stated that the school's governing body had formally agreed to the proposal. She explained that this change would increase childcare options in Ruislip and surrounding areas, helping to address a local shortfall.
The public consultation on the proposal received 59 responses, with 53% in favour. Parents at the school showed particularly strong support, with 93% agreeing with the change. Concerns raised by some respondents regarding the suitability of a school environment for two-year-olds and the potential impact on existing private, voluntary, and independent (PVI) childcare providers were addressed.
The council stated that the provision would be delivered in line with the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) framework, ensuring a play-based, nurturing approach. Dedicated early years practitioners will provide consistent emotional support and care tailored to the developmental needs of younger children. The school will adapt its environment to meet the needs of two-year-olds, including age-appropriate resources and spaces. Staff will receive specialist training in early years pedagogy and care, ensuring continuity with best practice standards found in nurseries and childminder settings. This includes facilities and routines suitable for two-year-olds, such as toilet training support and rest areas, with staffing ratios complying with statutory requirements.
The proposal is expected to complement, rather than replace, existing early years provision. The council acknowledged concerns from existing childcare providers about increased competition, stating that the school will offer a limited number of places targeted at families who would benefit from a school-based model. Furthermore, We will monitor the impact on local providers through regular engagement and data analysis. If evidence suggests significant disruption, the Council will work with providers to mitigate effects, including signposting families to alternative settings and supporting business sustainability initiatives.
While acknowledging potential concerns from existing childcare providers about increased competition, the committee highlighted that the school would offer a term-time-only provision, differentiating it from many other childcare settings. This term-time-only model may not be flexible enough for parents requiring childcare beyond school terms.
More details on the decision can be found in the Public reports pack from the Cabinet meeting.
