WIREDGOV

A brand new childcare centre in Swansea, funded by £262,500 from the Welsh Government, is set to give local children a flying start in life and enable parents to access training and employment opportunities.

This was the message from Communities and Tackling Poverty Minister, Lesley Griffiths, as she visited the new Flying Start setting at Plasmarl Primary School in Morriston, Swansea.

Flying Start is the Welsh Government’s flagship early years programme which provides support to families living in some of Wales’ most disadvantaged communities. The programme provides quality part-time childcare for 2-3 year olds, an enhanced Health Visiting service, parenting courses, and support for children’s Early Language Development.

The new facility is situated within Plasmarl primary school, maximising the link between the early years programme and the Foundation Phase.

The Minister visited the centre during an open day where local parents and children got the chance to take a look around the new, modern centre. The Minister said:

“The Welsh Government is absolutely committed to giving children the best possible start in life and making childcare available to parents so they can go to work or learn new skills.  

“This is why we have provided £22 million over four years for Flying Start in Swansea. This significant investment means more than 2,900 local children and their families are now benefitting from the flagship scheme this year alone.

“It is fantastic to see the new Flying Start setting here at Plasmarl Primary School. The close link between the centre and the primary school means children will be able to transfer smoothly onto the Foundation Phase and get the skills they need to reach their full potential.”

Cllr Christine Richards, Swansea Council’s Cabinet member for Services for Children & Young People, said:

“I am delighted every penny of Flying Start investment in Swansea is being put to great use to have a positive impact on children giving them the best start in life.

“Swansea Council is continuing to develop the Flying Start programme as a key part of our early years strategy aimed at involving everyone who is engaging with children from birth to primary school focussing on the child’s development. This will lead to a Swansea-wide approach improving readiness for school, attendance, attainment and ultimately supporting children and their families to be the best they can be.”

Lucy Saunders, Plasmarl Primary School Headteacher, said:

“The Flying Start programme provides free childcare for two to three year olds, an enhanced health visiting service, access to parenting programmes and early language development.

“We believe that children who attend will learn essential social skills that will prepare them well for entry into nursery and then school. We are delighted to be able to offer this facility to families in our community.”

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