AQW 47989/11-15 Written question to the Minister of Education
To ask the Minister of Education for an update on his Department's Pathway Fund due to commence in April 2016.
Asked by Claire Sugden MLA on 30 June 2015
- Answered
- Written
- Tabled
- 30 June 2015
- Answer due by
- 17 July 2015
- Answered
- 7 July 20157 days after tabling
- Department
- Department of Education
- Priority question
- No
Answer
If funding is available, it is my intention that a new Pathway Fund will replace the current Early Years Fund with awards being made from April 2016 onwards. The Pathway Fund would be open to all providers of Early Years education.
I am also reviewing my budgets for this current financial year to see whether there is any scope to support those providers whose funding is due to end in August 2015 for the bridging period until the new Pathway Fund is established.
Once the position is clear on the availability of funding to support a new Fund, my officials will ensure that this is communicated to the sector, including to current Fund recipients.