Deputy Jeremy Maçon said it was ‘essential’ to have consulted the industry before confirming that from September up to 30 hours of funded nursery education would be available for children in the school year they turn four.
The increase from the current entitlement of 20 hours was initially announced by former minister Senator Tracey Vallois in December.
Senator Vallois resigned as minister on 10 January, with Deputy Maçon initially taking over in an interim capacity before being elected to the role on 9 February, at which point he was pressed for a commitment by States Members.
‘This has been my top priority on being elected, and it was essential to consult the industry,’ he said. ‘There was a similar move in the UK where there wasn’t adequate consultation and some nurseries ended up closing, meaning a reduction in choice for some UK parents.
‘We have carried out the consultation pretty quickly and come up with an agreed rate. I’m grateful to the Jersey Early Years Association for their help in working with providers.’
As part of the increase in funded hours, a rise in the hourly rate paid to nurseries from £5.49 to £6.70 has been agreed.
Deputy Louise Doublet, a member of the Early Years Policy Development Board, welcomed the announcement.
‘It was unfortunate that there was that period of delay, but families will now be pleased to make plans,’ she said. ‘I just hope it continues and children, especially very young ones, will be put first.’
Deputy Doublet said she was pleased that the initiative by Senator Vallois had now been confirmed.
In the light of yesterday’s announcement, the deadline for applications for children starting a school nursery in September 2021 has been extended to Wednesday 3 March.
To be eligible for a place, children must turn four during the academic year from 1 September 2021 to 31 August 2022.
The government has advised that parents who have not yet registered should contact their first-choice school nursery in order to receive an application form.
It has also been confirmed that St Mary’s School will be opening a nursery class from September.
