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More Funding Expected for Vulnerable Children in this Month’s Budget
The government has signalled more money for children in the budget, but the sector is cautious about how it will be distributed. The budget will be delivered on May 25.
An extra six million dollars has been announced to support oral literacy for three and four year olds, which will be provided through upskilling staff in low decile areas.
New Zealand Kindergartens has reminded the government that professional development is no substitute for having a fully qualified and registered teaching workforce, particularly in low income areas.
In addition, the government has signalled $34.7 million for children with behavioural issues, focusing on children aged eight and under.
And $28.1 million will go to Family Start, a programme that provides extensive home visiting for children considered at risk.
The moves are part of the government’s social investment package which aims to intervene in high needs families rather than providing programmes for all families.
The early childhood sector will be hoping that in addition to these initiatives the government increases the bulk funding grant for all services which has been frozen since 2012.
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