Education Minister launches Kinder Project

Date published: 06 July 2016

Education Minister, Peter Weir, today launched the Kinder Project at Kilcooley Women’s Centre.

The Minister is pictured with Siobhan Fitzpatrick, Chief Executive of Early Years and Kayla Mills and Ollie Fisher from Jellietots Childcare.

The project is supported by the Department of Education’s new Pathway Fund and will help 40 children from birth to four years offering early intervention support which tackles social, emotional and behavioural difficulties.

Speaking at the event the Minister said:

“I am pleased to launch the Kinder Project which will provide free child places for 40 children up to the age of four through Pathway funding. The Pathway Fund prioritises support in areas of disadvantage; where children have additional needs or are at risk of harm; and where there is little or no provision currently. 

“The early years sector makes a valuable contribution to the lives of our children by ensuring their early years experience is both positive and fulfilling. The future stability of our society and the success of our economy depend on there being a high quality education system that can stand alongside the best in the world.  I am ambitious for our children and young people and determined to ensure that educational outcomes improve across every part of Northern Ireland, in every sector.

The Minister continued:

“Kilcooley Women’s Centre has a strong track record of delivery, and I believe that this new funding will be very helpful in supporting local families. I would like to wish Kilcooley Women’s Centre every success for the future and I hope the efforts of all involved with the Kinder Project will be rewarded and very satisfying.”

Notes to editors: 

  1. The Pathway Fund was introduced from 1st April 2016 and replaced the former Early years Fund. All providers or facilitators of registered Early Years education and learning services, focused on children aged 0-4 could apply for funding. The closing date for applications was 2nd March 2016.
  2. Media enquiries to the Department of Education Press Office Tel: 028 91279207. Out of hours, contact the Duty Press Officer via pager number 07699715440, and your call will be returned.

 

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