We are fortunate to build on the excellent legacy of Bristol and Avon County Councils which built and maintained the city=s commitment to nursery provision through a wide range of provision. Together with a strong community sector and support for child-minders, Bristol is relatively well provided. This legacy has provided the springboard for the new Bristol Unitary Authority to develop its integrated approach to Early Years and a commitment to quality across all settings through the Bristol Standard.

The Plan continues Bristol=s tradition of innovation by reviewing services for children under 8 to encompass the formal requirements of the S. 19 Day Care Review (Children=s Act 1989). as well as the Early Years Development Plan.

I am proud to say this Development Plan confirms our ability to deliver immediately a guaranteed place for all 4 year olds and sets out how we will offer a similar guarantee for all 3 year olds by Spring 1999. It commits us all to engaging in the continuous quest for quality and improvement and supporting settings that build confidence in the whole child. We are committed to promoting inclusion and excellence, to developing the zest for learning that represents a secure foundation for future life.

We have more to do to develop (and secure funding for) affordable childcare. We have to increase the respect for all those who work with our children. We have to celebrate our multi-cultural inheritance and promote a coherent child-centred city. We have to invest for the future.