Nursery funding shake-up boost

OLDHAM families will benefit from a new system to fund nursery education.

The borough is one of 56 areas chosen to pilot more consistent childcare funding ahead of a national roll-out in April, 2011.

At present, funding varies across the country, which means similar nurseries in Oldham and Rochdale could receive a different amount per pupil.

The Early Years Single Funding Formula will standardise this and aims to help authorities to meet local priorities and demand. It will also make it easier for them to implement the free childcare available for three and four-year-olds — which will be extended from 12.5 hours to 15 hours per week in September.

Children’s Minister Dawn Primarolo said: “The new formula is not designed to disadvantage maintained nurseries or to enable private nurseries to make large profits.

“Local authorities have a duty to ensure that provision in their area meets the needs of families and we will continue to support local authorities who may need extra help.”