The extended services disadvantage subsidy, a pathfinder funding initiative from the DCSF to make extended services available to those most in need, has been running since the autumn. You will need to contact the local authority extended school remodelling adviser to see if they are piloting in a cluster or over the authority as a whole and check that they have considered existing community provision for the schools. Local authorities could also help the school through their clustering arrangements to have a clear commissioning process for engaging the third sector. You can ask the local authority the following: Is my service signposted as part of the cluster's extended offer?; are arrangements in place that allow fee-paying children to access the provision?; can the school buy free places directly from me?
Most authorities are making the funding available from next April.
We are having problems providing activities for older children in rural areas. What should we do?
One way forward is working with secondary schools and the local community to develop a whole school approach such as Safe Place to Go. In doing so it will be possible to have an 8am to 6pm offer for young people during both term time and school holidays. This needs to be consistent and reliable with alternative arrangements in place if cancellation arises. 4Children is working with local authorities to help develop clear processes for registration and supervision as well as providing activities and an environment that children want.
- Your questions are answered by 4Children and ContinYou's consultancy services. If you have a question please email colin.hamilton@haymarket.com
