Vulnerable children and children of frontline workers benefit from pilot program in NSW

Grants of up to $30,000 have been made available to New South Wales outside school hours care (OSHC) services to support children from vulnerable families, or the children of frontline workers to have better access to vacation care as the country transitions from Term Three to Term Four whilst also navigating the ongoing pressures caused by the pandemic. 

 

The grants will assist OSHC service providers to provide engaging activities for children such as sports and nutrition programs, excursions, cooking and art workshops. 

 

Member for Myall Lakes Stephen Bromhead said OSHC services provide a valuable service for many communities, and was pleased to learn that seven services in his electorate would benefit from the funding stream. 

 

NSW Minister for Education Sarah Mitchell said the funding will allow services to extend opportunities to children through incursions and excursions, as well as upgrades to equipment, resources and transport.

 

“This service is crucial for parents and carers who may not be able to get time off work to look after their children during school holidays,” Ms Mitchell said.

 

“We want children to be excited to walk through the doors of their vacation care and look forward to spending time there. I’ve seen some of the great programs available, like inviting local sports stars to talk and workshops with writers to inspire students. This will provide enriching opportunities for students in vacation care.”

 

As one of the many small NSW businesses who will benefit from the announcement, Bubbling With Energy CEO James Rubiolo said the funding was welcome, given the challenges business has faced over the past 18 months. 

 

Mr Rubiolo’s business provides many activities frequently enjoyed by OSHC services such as jumping castles, waterslides, inflatable obstacle courses, mobile escape rooms and video games. 

 

“Schools and OSHC services, who are amongst our biggest clients, have been in lockdown, and unable to have incursions or excursions,” he explained. 

 

“The flow on from the extra funding will allow us to sustain our business and even expand into activities like foam parties and virtual reality games.”

 

For more information about the Before and After School Care Infrastructure Fund please see here.