Working families 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 Cootamundra Steph Cooke said these grants will support services in providing better educational programs and development for students.
“Whether it’s funding pilot programs, sports lessons or digital equipment our students will be put first by BASC providers to better support them in their development,” Ms Cooke said.
“I know that these services are so important for working families in the region, 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 will open on 17 October 2022 and close on 2 December 2022.
