The new 30hrs free childcare scheme has started in York
York was chosen as one of the eight pilot areas to launch the 30hrs free childcare this September. The new scheme started yesterday however concerns have already been voiced at this scheme.
Before the scheme was launched many nurseries expressed their concerns over the cost of funding being given to nurseries. The Department of Education increased the funding being offered, however only 75 percent of nurseries accepted this offer. With the funding amount still causing concerns for nurseries, employers are still worried about the effect this will have on them financially. Nurseries are finding that the increase in hours is leaving very little flexibility in making their business sustainable. The only option nurseries are considering is charging parents for extra things like food and additional activities.
The scheme will give children the opportunity to access high-quality care and education. The scheme is at present only available for working parents of three and four-year-olds