Following many Government initiatives the Early Years Development and Childcare Partnerships, based in each area of England, have access to several 'pots' of funding and are able to help childcare workers, and potential workers, in lots of ways. Although priorities vary from one to partnership to another, there are student contributions to courses from introductory to advanced programmes, from one-day to two-year courses.
Some funding from Europe, the Breaking Down Barriers fund, can pay for student fees, books, childcare and even travel costs. This is not means- tested although students on means-tested benefits can get help with courses that are not free any other way.
This college is able to provide almost all our childcare programmes free to students, with the help of the City of Stoke-on-Trent EYDCP and others. I appeal to all childcare workers who want training or updating to contact their local EYDCP or college and ask what help is available. They will be very willing to discuss your training needs and funding sources.
Do not let fear of fees put you off enquiring. Courses often begin at several times during a year, so it is worth applying soon.
Terrie Hewitt, deputy head, Faculty of Caring Services, Stoke-on-Trent College
