To meet new early learning and childcare provision requirements, the Council agreed its Early Years Strategic Plan 2017 – 2020 at the meeting of the Education Committee, last night.
The Scottish Government has pledged to provide 1140 hours free early learning and childcare to all 3 and 4 year olds by 2020, an increase on the 600 hours currently delivered.
An Early Years Strategic Group has been set up to develop and begin the preparation for expansion and will work with colleagues in others councils to share plans and approaches. Council Officers will also attend national network meetings including those with Scottish Government to assist with the preparation for this increase in provision.
Depute Chief Executive, Education, People & Business, Ann Davie, said, “Additional revenue and capital funding to support this expansion has been allocated to councils by the Scottish Government and the Education Service will work with the Council’s Assets team to scope projects to increase capacity in localities where it is required.”
Some of the proposals include:
- Piloting of extended provision within Auchinairn, Hillhead and Lennoxtown Nurseries
- Providing extended day/term time provision in Holy Family Nursery
- Developing more outdoor provision
- Working with the Skills for Life, Learning and Work Team as part of work force development
- Developing holiday provision within each locality
Ann Davie, continued, “Various models of delivery are being developed and will be scoped out in the coming years and will include input from parents, colleagues and partner providers. The quality of experience for children is central to the provision of early learning and childcare in East Dunbartonshire and this will remain the focus as we expand the service.”
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