Flying start

THREE more schools in Carmarthenshire will be offering a Flying Start to children in their areas from this autumn.

Dafen, Ysgol y Bedol and Bynea primary schools will benefit from the investment which is a Welsh Government Early Years preventative programme.

It is aimed at families with children who are under four years of age and is targeted in some of the most deprived areas in Wales.

Carmarthenshire County Council Leader Cllr Kevin Madge said he welcomed the news which would benefit so many children.

“Flying Start is an excellent initiative which aims to make a real difference to the lives of children under four in the areas where it runs,” Cllr Madge said.

“It is really good news for Carmarthenshire that three more schools will be able to offer children and families this opportunity.”

The core elements of the Flying Start programme are:

• Free, quality, part-time childcare for two to three year olds.
• An enhanced health visiting service.
• Access to parenting programmes.
• Early language development.

Flying Start Carmarthenshire is now making adaptations and refurbishment to existing premises in order to deliver the service in the newly expanded Flying Start areas.

A small office hub will be created within Ysgol y Bedol to house a small multiagency team which will cover the eligible Flying Start postcodes in the Ammanford area.

Minor refurbishment works will be carried out at Ysgol y Bedol and at Bynea to ensure they both reach the flagship standard for Flying Start high quality childcare provision.

Works include the development of wet, messy and sand play areas, multi-purpose flooring to include carpeted areas for quiet time, and creative corners.

Nappy changing and toileting facilities, a kitchen area to prepare snacks, and outdoor play provision are included.

For further information on Flying Start, please contact the team on 01554 742447.