Aberdeen parents to be consulted on extra early learning places for children
26 August 2016
26 August 2016
Aberdeen parents to be consulted on extra early learning places for children
Aberdeen parents and parents-to-be are being asked for their views on the Scottish Government’s plans to expand early learning and childcare entitlements, Aberdeen City Council announced today (Friday 26 August).
A series of twelve evening consultation events across the city will begin on Monday 29 August at Forehill School at 7pm.
Opinions are being sought on the proposal to increase the current 600 hours to 1140 hours of flexible provision by Aberdeen City Council for all three and four year olds, and the 15% of two year olds currently provided for. This will include the offer being extended to 27% of two year olds whose parents are on benefits or are being looked after.
The Children and Young People (Scotland) Act 2014 places a duty on local authorities to secure flexible childcare provision for two, three and four year olds. The government programme aims to extend childcare services to school age children by 2020.
Councillor Angela Taylor, Convenor of Education and Children’s Services Committee, said: “We need to ensure that any expansion of early learning and childcare hours does not affect the high quality currently provided and also maintains flexibility for working parents.
“We are committed to reducing inequalities and enhancing outcomes for children, which is why we are asking people for their views. We want to meet their needs and ensure that the development of children, and families, are placed at the forefront of Aberdeen’s socio economic development.”
The full list of consultation events are as follows (each event runs from 7pm-8.30pm):
Monday 29 August – Forehill School Tuesday 30 August – Scotstown School Wednesday 31 August – Bucksburn Academy Monday 5 September – Dyce School Tuesday 6 September – St Machar Academy Wednesday 7 September – Kincorth Academy Monday 12 September – Mile End School Tues 13 September – Harlaw Academy Wednesday 14 September – Cults School Tuesday 27 September – Walker Road School Wednesday 28 September – Manor Park School Thursday 29 September – Hazlehead Academy