New free childcare trial in pipeline

A new free childcare option will be available to Wee County parents later this year.

In order to provide parents with high quality childcare Clackmannanshire Council has been exploring different options, including the expansion of partnership working with childminders.

From August, a pilot involving two childminders in Menstrie and two in Tullibody will be trialled.

These childminders will provide care to two year-olds who are eligible for free childcare.

Head of education Anne Pearson said:“We have been liaising with the Scottish Childminding Association and local childminders to trial this method from August 2017.

“Families will have the option to have their free entitlement with a childminder where there is availability.

“This method of childcare can provide families with an option of using their entitlement in a smaller early learning and childcare environment.”

When the child turns three he or she can remain with the childminder until the point of their entitled term beginning.

For further information, or to apply for a place visit ClacksWeb or contact the Early Years Team on 01259 450000 or email education@ clacks.gov.uk