Olivia Bailey appointed as new Early Years Minister

Olivia Bailey appointed as new Early Years Minister

The government has appointed Olivia Bailey MP (Reading West and Mid Berkshire) as the new minister for Early Education, following the reshuffle in early September 2025. She steps into a role crucial for shaping the future of early years education in the UK.

Bailey succeeds Stephen Morgan, who has moved to the Government Whips’ Office. She has held roles including head of domestic policy for the Labour Party, senior adviser and head of community/security, PPS to the Work and Pensions Secretary. 

The cabinet reshuffle came amidst the backdrop of the final stage of the funded childcare expansion being introduced and just prior to new inspection report cards being introduced. A critical time for the early years sector.

Leading voices in the sector have welcomed her appointment, whilst emphasising the urgency of key challenges such as: under‑funding; recruitment and retention of staff; and ensuring that the ambitions of the ‘Best Start in Life’ strategy are realised not just in promise but in practice.

Key expectations for Minister Bailey include steering the rollout of expanded funded childcare hours, tackling challenges such as funding and staffing, ensuring high quality standards, and ensuring that providers are fairly treated in the system.

Sources:
1. https://www.nurseryworld.co.uk/content/news/new-early-years-minister-says-she-is-excited-to-work-with-sector-as-she-visits-first-nurseries
2. https://www.eyalliance.org.uk/news/2025/09/olivia-bailey-appointed-early-education-minister-cabinet-reshuffle
3. https://ndna.org.uk/olivia-bailey-and-josh-macalister-appointed-new-ministers/