New publication: Key data on early childhood education and care in Europe

The third edition of Key Data on Early Childhood Education and Care (ECEC) is now available, offering a comprehensive analysis of the state of ECEC across Europe. Produced by the Eurydice network, the report provides a fresh and nuanced perspective on the ECEC landscape. It reviews policy changes over the past decade and introduces new indicators to reflect evolving priorities in the ECEC field.

These insights provide a clear picture of the current situation and major trends across Europe, as well as a deeper understanding of individual systems:

· Many European countries have made significant progress in expanding access to ECEC, particularly in the years before primary school.

· Yet, a right to education from a very early age is still not universally guaranteed, and the quality of services varies widely within countries and across Europe.

· Staff shortages and the need for enhanced professional development and improved working conditions remain pressing challenges.

The report includes:

· International comparisons, analysing ECEC systems across 37 European countries, highlighting the successes and challenges in striving for high quality.

· National information sheets outlining the main aspects of each country’s ECEC system for easy reference.

Whether you're a policymaker, researcher, or simply passionate about ECEC, this report is a valuable resource that will help you navigate the complex landscape of early childhood education and care.

Check out the report -  Discover the latest data, challenges, and solutions to inform your work and drive positive change in the lives of Europe’s youngest citizens.