A New Start For Young Children in Oxfordshire
January 1, 2012 7:36 PM
Following the Government announcement of extra funding to provide fifteen hours of free childcare to all disadvantaged two-year-olds by April 2013, Liberal Democrat Cllr. Jean Fooks asked the County Council to ensure that sufficient local places are available in quality nurseries and children's centres to fulfil this obligation. The Full Council meeting in December supported the request unanimously, with the further safeguard that the Children's Scrutiny Committee must be told if a shortfall appears likely.
Cllr. Fooks emphasised the importance of giving children a good start in life; the childcare will provide vital early education for about 1,000 toddlers from Oxfordshire's poorest families. It will enable parents to go out to work if they want to, knowing that their child is being helped to gain skills to prepare them for formal education later on.
Cllr. Janet Godden, Shadow Portfolio Holder for Children said "This money is intended to improve the life chances for the most disadvantaged young children in the county. We look forward to receiving this extra funding so that we can start planning in earnest.'
The Government is providing £64m this year, £223m in 2012/3 and £380m in 2013/4, when authorities will have a legal duty to provide the places needed. Eligible children will be those in families meeting the criteria for free school meals, as well as all two-year-old looked-after children. "
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