Conflicting discourses of private nursery entrepreneurs in KwaZulu-Natal Dr HB Ebrahim International Centre for Studies in Mixed Economies of Childcare 2 June 2008

Introduction -Main argument – business approach is narrow and limiting. Marginalises access for vulnerable and disadvantaged children International context South African context Research context

Findings and discussion 1 Enabling the logic of the market Competitive business practices Social class responses Limited racial integration Tight controls

Findings and discussions 2 Disabling the logic of the markets – non market values Care and community spirit

Conclusion The business approach to early care and education is narrow and limiting. It focuses on the purchasing power of parents. It promotes an insular view of early care and education. The emphasis on profit making, competition makes it difficult to create access for vulnerable and disadvantaged children. Social exclusion results. The collaborative endeavours, community culture and the ethic of care so needed for vulnerable and disadvantaged children is sidelined.