Nursery World - Long-term funds sought to expand out-of-school care

The number of out-of-school clubs has doubled in the last four years, but a ten-year plan is now needed to provide one at every primary school in the country, according to the Kids' Clubs Network (KCN). KCNfigures show that the number of clubs has increased from 3,500 in 1997 to 7,000 today. The charity is calling for more funds to raise the number to 20,000 by 2010, as well as increased subsidies for clubs in disadvantaged areas, wider access to school premises and more trained staff.

KCNfigures show that the number of clubs has increased from 3,500 in 1997 to 7,000 today. The charity is calling for more funds to raise the number to 20,000 by 2010, as well as increased subsidies for clubs in disadvantaged areas, wider access to school premises and more trained staff.

Anne Longfield, KCNchief executive, said, 'This is an important improvement for childcare but one which Kids' Clubs Network believes should be seen as the first phase of development. What is needed now is a ten-year plan, which brings together gains to date and sets them within a wider context for long-term growth and development of this crucial sector.' The New Opportunities Fund has provided 200m to create 865,000 out-of-school childcare places by 2003. KCN estimates that the number of clubs will have risen to about 12,000 by 2004, but that a further 200m will be needed to cover start-up costs to reach its 20,000 target.

Register now to continue reading

Thank you for visiting Nursery World and making use of our archive of more than 35,000 expert features, subject guides, case studies and policy updates. Why not register today and enjoy the following great benefits:

What's included