To ask the Secretary of State for Children, Schools and Families (1) how many institutions have brought together training for early years professional status and qualified teacher status and awarded both concurrently; (178671)

[holding answer 29 January 2008]: None so far, but the Training and Development Agency for Schools and Children's Workforce Development Council will soon be discussing this with training providers of initial teaching and early years professional status to explore the feasibility of such training being offered.

None. The Secretary of State's requirements for initial teacher training (which includes PGCE as well as BA and BEd courses) only covers the ages three to 19. However, beyond initial teacher training, degree courses to provide training on working with children in the 0-3 age-range are available via the Early Years Sector Endorsed Foundation Degree and the Early Years Study Degree. Training towards the award of Early Years Professional Status is also available for graduates who wish to develop their knowledge and experience of working with 0-3 year olds.