Boosting Child Education: Kyogle and Federal Communities Gain from Fresh Initiative

Kyogle and Federal are gearing up to enhance support for working families through expanded access to early childhood education and care, thanks to a new $20-million initiative known as the Flexible Initiatives Trial (FIT).

This program aims to tackle the obstacles faced by parents, particularly women, in joining the workforce by empowering early childhood education services to tailor their offerings and hours to suit local community needs.

Among the 16 grant recipients announced in the first round of successful applicants, Kyogle’s Bundgeam Preschool and the Federal Community Children’s Centre in the Byron Shire hinterland stand out as local beneficiaries.

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State Member for Lismore, Janelle Saffin, expressed satisfaction with the inclusion of these services, emphasising the dedication of their educators and the positive impact the trial will have on the surrounding communities.

Ms. Saffin also highlighted the broader regional impact, noting that Yamba Early Learning Centre and Clarence Community Preschool in Grafton will also benefit from the program. For instance, the Grafton service will introduce weekend operations, catering to families’ needs beyond the usual weekday schedule.

The family-friendly enhancements offered through the FIT program include extending operating hours, flexible drop-off and pick-up times, options for occasional or ad hoc care, establishment of new family day care services in remote areas, and collaborations between different service types to provide comprehensive care.

This initiative is part of the NSW Labor Government’s ongoing commitment to supporting children and young families, exemplified by the unprecedented $769 million investment to construct 100 new public preschools across the state.

Additionally, $60 million has been allocated to build and upgrade preschools in 50 non-government schools, focusing on areas with the greatest need, along with $17 million for capital works in early childhood services.

Furthermore, the NSW Government is actively bolstering the early childhood workforce through a significant scholarship program, attracting a record number of applicants.

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