Purpose

The national Wraparound Childcare Programme forms part of the childcare reforms, announced in 2023. By September 2026, all parents and carers of primary school-aged children will be able to access Ofsted registered, term time childcare in their local area from 8am-6pm.

This report is concerned with Phase 6 allocations for the expansion of places during the autumn term of the school year 2026-27.

Approval is necessary to enable the Local Authority to allocate Department for Education (DfE) grant funding to providers for the expansion of places during the school year 2025-26, to be delivered in the autumn term of 2026-27.

This is the final phase.
 

Decision

DECISION:

1. Confirm the allocations and approve funding as proposed by Wraparound Childcare Programme Grant Panel for Phase 6. This is for delivery in the autumn term of 2026-27.
2. To note the methodology governing how applications are assessed and how funding decisions are recommended, in line with national Department for Education (DfE) requirements as set out in Paragraph 3.6 – 3.16 and Appendix 1.
3. To note the Equalities Impact Screening and specific equalities considerations as set out in Paragraph 4.1 – 4.3 and Appendix 10.

REASON FOR DECISION:

Approval is necessary to enable the Local Authority to allocate Department for Education (DfE) grant funding to providers for the expansion of places during the school year 2025-26, to be delivered in the autumn term of 2026-27.

ALTERANTIVE OPTIONS:

1. The recommendations in this report have been prepared with regard to the need for the Local Authority to expand Wraparound provision. Any alternative action could lead to inequality and leave the Local Authority open to legitimate complaint and legal challenge.
2. Should the committee wish to consider alterative providers and/or funding allocations, then full consideration would need to be given to the guidance provided, particularly as to the DfE guidance.

Action by: Corporate Director of Children’s Services