Riverstone will have extra before and after school places available after Riverstone Public School secured a $30,000 grant from the NSW Government for Wesley Mission to establish an Out of School Hours Care (OSHC) service.
The grant has been provided from the NSW Government’s $20 million Before and After School Care Fund to assist Wesley Mission establish the crucial service, which will give working parents in the area greater flexibility.
Minister for Early Childhood Education and Member for Riverstone Kevin Conolly visited the school last Friday to discuss the funding announcement.
Mrs Williams said she understands that families need more care options for their children.
“These extra places will help parents better manage their working week and give them greater flexibility,” she said.
Grants of up to $30,000 are available to help with the cost of establishing or extending existing OSHC services. The grants can be used for fit-outs, tendering or equipment costs by schools with new or existing OSHC services.
Mr Conolly said it was a privilege to visit the school and witness the benefits of before and after school care.
“This expanded service will benefit many families in our local community,” Mr Connolly said.
“It will provide more places and enable Wesley Mission to assist in meeting this growing demand.”
The CEO of Wesley Mission the Rev Dr Keith Garner said Wesley Mission was delighted with the support shown by the NSW Government for the new Out of School Hours Care program. “Wesley Mission identified a need for out of school hours care after consulting widely with local families and Riverstone Public School,” Dr Garner said.
“The area has undergone enormous change in the past decade placing fresh demands on families. The time spent before or after school is a critical to a child's day. It is important that children have suitable and appropriate care arrangements as well as opportunities to enjoy activities which promote mental and physical well-being.”
The program will eventually cater for up to 70 students.
Applications for funding are accepted from schools seeking new services, schools wanting to expand existing OSHC services and local councils wishing to partnership with schools.
For criteria and applications visit: https://beforeandafterschoolcare.smartygrants.com.au/