Boost for Before and After School Care
Working families in Castle Hill are receiving more support with quality Before and After School Care ( BASC ) thanks to two new grant programs for service providers .
The NSW Government has committed $ 7.8 million to establish the grants which will encourage providers to offer new , inclusive and sustainable services :
- New Innovation Grants will offer up to $ 60,000 to stimulate innovation in the sector and help ensure BASC services support more NSW families , including students with additional needs .
- New Development Grants will offer up to $ 80,000 for staff training and professional development , and marketing to increase take up and promote attractive programs for students .
Member for Castle Hill Ray Williams MP said these grants will support services in providing better educational programs and development for students .
“ Whether it ’ s funding pilot programs , sport lessons or digital equipment our students will be put first by BASC providers to better support them in their development ,” Mr Williams said .
“ I know that these services are so important for working families in Castle
Hill . We want to continue to provide working parents with a range of options for their child to have a safe place to play , learn and socialise .”
Minister for Education and Early Learning Sarah Mitchell said it was important to support working families and give them the option of accessing a quality BASC service .
“ Given Before and After School Care is not a 9 to 5 job for educators , these grants could support services to offer improved professional development for their staff , which will be critical in sustaining the workforce and ultimately expanding the range of services available ,” Ms Mitchell said .
“ I encourage BASC services across NSW to apply for these grants , which are a unique opportunity to deliver new and innovative educational activities with community partnerships , and to look at upskilling their staff .
“ Since 2019 , the NSW Government has committed more than $ 235 million to ensure that all parents with children at public primary schools have access to a before and after school care program , if they need it .”
Applications for round one for both grant programs are now open and will close on 2 December 2022 .
THE HILLS INDEPENDENT theindependentmagazine . com . au ISSUE 89 // NOVEMBER 2022 29