Additional Bursary Funding for Private Voluntary and Independent Early Years Settings
There is a new initiative from the Sure Start unit entitled Transformation Fund, which aims to increase the level of qualifications of practitioners working in the private, voluntary and independent early years sector. The funding is available for two years (April 2006 – March 2008) so now is the very best time to think about staff and individual development. Bursaries for early years practitioners in private, voluntary and independent settings including childminders, will be able to apply for a financial support at an increased rate for the following courses Level 3, Level 4 and Level 5 Sector Endorsed Foundation degree Eastleigh College usually offer level 3 and level 3 qualifications on a part-time basis Itchen College usually offer level 2 and level 3 qualifications on a part-time basis Southampton City Training usually offer level 2 and level 3 courses on a part-time basis Tauntons College usually offer level 2, level 3 and Level 5 sector endorsed foundation degree courses on a part-time basis Colleges should be contacted directly to establish which courses they are able to offer and for full information on course fees. Bursary Application forms can be obtained from the Training Support Officer on 023 8083 4615.
If a Bursary for study at level 4 or level 5 is awarded, an additional sum of money is also payable to the setting entitled Support and Release Funding.
This Support and Release funding can be used for: The fund is offered to the setting and is paid into the bank account that normally receives the Nursery Education Grant funds. No monitoring returns are required although settings are expected to keep detailed records of how the money is used to support the practitioner on a level 4 or level 5 course For more information, go to:
www.everychildmatters.gov.uk/deliveringservices/workforcereform/earlyyearsworkforce/
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