If you are involved in education or childcare, you've probably heard about the school-based nursery grant. But what exactly is it, and how can it benefit you and your local community?
We have broken it down so you can explore the exciting opportunities this could bring to your school:
What is the school-based nursery grant?
The school-based nursery grant is a funding opportunity provided by the government to support schools in setting up or expanding their nursery provisions.
This grant aims to help schools create quality early years education settings, specifically nurseries for younger children. The initiative focuses on ensuring that all children, no matter their background, have access to the best start in life.
Why is this grant important?
Early childhood education is crucial for child development, laying the foundation for future learning. However, many schools face challenges in offering these services due to limited resources or space. The school-based nursery grant is designed to remove these barriers, giving schools the opportunity to create nursery provisions that are nurturing, inclusive, and educational.
For parents, this grant provides more options for accessible childcare within the school setting. It is a win-win for communities, as it not only benefits the children but also helps schools become central hubs of early childhood education.
Who can apply?
The grant is available to primary and secondary schools across the country, including academies, free schools, and maintained schools. If your school is looking to start a nursery or expand an existing provision, this grant could be the perfect opportunity.
How can the grant help?
Here are some ways the school-based nursery grant can support your school:
1) Setting up new nursery spaces – If your school does not currently have a nursery, this grant can provide the funds to create a new facility that meets all the necessary educational standards.
2) Improving existing nurseries – For schools that already have a nursery, the grant can help improve and expand the facility, from upgrading resources to increasing the number of children who can be accommodated.
3) Training and development – The grant can also support professional development for staff, ensuring that everyone involved in running the nursery is equipped with the best skills to foster early childhood learning.
4) Increased accessibility – It can also make your school’s nursery more affordable and accessible to families in your community, ensuring a wider range of children benefit from early education.
How to apply
While application processes can vary, schools will need to submit an application detailing how they intend to use the funds. This might include a proposal for setting up a nursery, expanding one, or improving current facilities. Schools will also need to show how the project will benefit the local community and support early childhood education goals.
The deadline for this round of applications closes on 19th December 2024.
Check with your local council or education authority to get the most up-to-date application guidelines and deadlines.
Key benefits of the school-based nursery grant
- Enhanced early education – By creating more nurseries, you give children the opportunity to experience early education in a familiar, supportive environment.
- Stronger community ties – Schools offering nursery provisions can become vital community hubs, bringing families together and making childcare more accessible.
- Improved learning outcomes – Research shows that children who attend high-quality early education are better prepared for primary school and beyond.
The school-based nursery grant is a fantastic opportunity for schools to improve their offerings and provide better educational experiences for young children. It is about laying strong foundations, not only for the kids but for the community as a whole.
KCS Education work in partnership with schools and nursery, offering bespoke services tailored to individual school goals. If you’re applying for the School-Based Nursery Grant and would like to talk through how we can help support you, please visit https://www.kcs.co.uk/multi-academy-trusts and get in touch.
