BRIGG CHILDREN 'TO GET THE BEST START IN LIFE'

Parents in Brigg and district are being urged to claim their child’s free early education to help prepare them for school while learning and having fun.
North Lincolnshire Council, the local education authority, is offering up to 15 hours a week of free early education, during term time, for three and four year olds.
The government-funded initiative will provide a valuable educational opportunity for children, encouraged by a carer to learn through play. They will have fun in a safe and nurturing environment as well as make friends and get a good start to education.
Children are eligible to benefit from the early education the school term after their third birthday. The entitlement can be used flexibly to meet the needs of the child and their family.
It is available in a number of settings including:

*    A private day nursery
*    A pre-school or playgroup
*    A children’s centre with day care
*    With an accredited childminder
*    A school or academy

If parents would like the entitlement spread over more weeks they could have the 570 hours spread over 51 weeks, dependent on the provider’s opening hours. Funding can also be split between two providers if this is more suitable. All you need to do to claim your child’s entitlement is complete and sign a Parent Agreement Form (PAF), return it to your chosen provider along with a copy of the child’s Birth Certificate.
If your child is not already attending a registered provider, you will need to contact your preferred provider to find out if they have a place available. If your child is already attending a registered provider then they can offer you the free entitlement.
Brigg's Coun Rob Waltham, Cabinet Member for People at North Lincolnshire Council, said: “We recognise how important it is to give children the best start in life, which is why all children aged three and four are entitled to free early years education. It is a great way to help children with the transformation into school life.
“The funding is flexible to meet families’ needs as we know not every family is the same. It will provide children with the opportunity to learn through play and experience new activities. If your child is eligible for the funding, make sure you contact the Family Information Service to get started.”
For more information or to find out your nearest registered providers call the Family Information Service on 01724 296629 or visit www.northlincs.gov.uk/earlyeducation