THE YOUNGEST children in Pembrokeshire are set to benefit from the Welsh Assembly Government's extra investment in childcare and early years education.
Pembrokeshire based Labour Assembly Member JOYCE WATSON AM has welcomed Welsh Labour Education Minister Jane Hutt's announcement that funds for the Flying Start childcare scheme will increase by £8 million over the next three years, while £45 million extra has been set aside for 3 - 7 year olds' education.
The Flying Start scheme provides high quality free childcare for two year olds - and allows parents to save money and keep working - and the extra money will allow a 10% increase in the number of childcare places.
School catchments to be included in the Flying Start scheme will include Golden Grove JMCP School in Pembroke, Monkton CP School, Pembroke Dock CP School, Pennar CP School, Pembroke Dock and St Mary’s RC School, Pembroke Dock.
Foundation Phase is a new approach to teaching the youngest children based on learning through play, active involvement and practical activities. The extra £45 million will allow the roll out of the scheme across Pembrokeshire from next year.
Local AM JOYCE WATSON said:
''There is no greater priority for Welsh Labour than our youngest children. This extra money is going to give the youngest children in Pembrokeshire a flying start in life.
''Extra money for childcare is going to make a real difference in the lives of local families. I am delighted that more children will benefit from this scheme and that local mums will be able to keep their jobs or go back to work without worrying about paying for quality childcare.
''And the roll out of the new Foundation phase will offer a radical new learning experience for 3 - 7 year olds. International evidence reveals that children do better if they start formal education later on and that children are put off learning altogether if they are tested too early.
''Welsh Labour's Foundation phase will move early years education away from a rigid desk and blackboard style of teaching and place an emphasis on learning through play.
"Active involvement and participation in learning improves children's speaking and listening skills. Improving the personal and social skills of young children will encourage a more positive attitude towards learning throughout the rest of their school days and beyond.''
