Nurseries in Moray have secured cash boosts to prepare for an expected surge in demand next year.
The Scottish Government’s commitment to expanding the amount of free childcare places to up to 1,140 hours a year for all three and four-year-olds as well as some two-year-olds will take full effect in August 2020.
However, facilities in the region have required upgrades and expansions to cope with the extra places.
Yesterday, Moray Council announced it had awarded about £50,000, which has been funded by the Scottish Government, to three nurseries to help them meet the demand – taking the total given to them to more than £160,000 during the last two years.
The Torridon Education Group, which has bases in Elgin and Lossiemouth, has received £26,000 across its four locations to fund training for staff to develop arts, dance and music skills.
Manager Lauren Hayward said: “We wouldn’t have been able to complete the work we needed to increase capacity and offer the full-time hours for children without this financial support from Moray Council and the Scottish Government.
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“The funding has allowed us to improve our outdoor space, provide more training for staff and ensure the continuation of high standard of service that complies with changing legislation and we look forward to our children continuing to enjoy their new spaces to play and learn.”
The Noah’s Ark Developmental Playgroup in Forres received £22,000 to build an outdoor classroom, which children have christened “The Pea Pod”.
Outdoor nursery Earthtime for All, which is based near Elgin, was awarded £5,000 to install a new kitchen as part of their expansion.
Education and outreach manager Laura Russell, said: “A number of parents have indicated how useful the extended hours will be, especially for working parents needing to build travel time in to their day – our new kitchen means we can offer everything children are entitled to during those longer days.”
Moray Council already offers 1,140 hours, which is nearly double the previous entitlement, to more than 1,000 children across the region.
However, that total is expected to double by August next year once all toddlers are entitled to the scheme.
A guide has been published by the authority to explain options to parents so they can choose the best path for their children.
Sonya Warren, chairwoman of the council’s children and young people’s committee, said: “Research shows that the early years are crucial to a child’s development and the environment they are in can shape their outlook on life.
“Therefore, it’s understandable that the decision made by parents and carers about early learning and childcare provision is a pivotal one.”
