Big shake-up over childcare funding (From Bournemouth Echo)

Big shake-up over childcare funding

8:20am Thursday 18th February 2010 in

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BOURNEMOUTH has been chosen as one of 56 local authorities to implement a new system of childcare funding.

The Early Years Single Funding Formula will be introduced across the country in April next year.

But some councils are ready to make the changes now and have been allowed to do so by the Department for Children, Schools and Families.

The new system will give local authorities the power to manage funding in their area according to local priorities and need.

Free childcare entitlement will rise from 12.5 hours per week to 15 in September this year and the aim is to ensure all children get the best possible start in life, regardless of background or income.

“The government has transformed early years education over the last 12 years and we now have near universal take-up of free entitlement,” said Children’s Minister Dawn Primarolo.

“The formula will enable local authorities to manage and plan childcare provision to benefit families across their area.”

The 56 authorities are allowed to join the scheme now and others, including Poole and Dorset, are preparing to introduce it in 14 months’ time.