| 77 schools in Leeds are already offering
extended services including breakfast clubs, out-of-hours tuition
and after-school clubs in sport, music and drama, according to
figures highlighted by local MP John Battle this week.
Mr Battle, Labour MP for Leeds West, said that the Government wanted
all schools to become “extended schools” by 2010
and had reached a milestone to have over 7,000 extended schools
across England two months ahead of schedule.
The Government wants all families with children up to 14, who
require it, to have access to affordable, flexible and high quality
childcare from 8am to 6pm. This could be provided through a local
extended school.
Leeds City Council received £2,761,511 to fund extended services in schools
during 2007/08. Funding for the next three years to ensure all schools become
extended schools will be announced later this year.
John Battle, Labour MP for Leeds West, said:
“Schools in West Leeds have worked really hard to start offering extended
services to pupils. We now have 77 extended schools in Leeds as a whole and with
extra funding from the Labour Government, all schools in our area will become
extended schools by 2010.
“I know that extended services are popular with parents and children and
can help to put schools at the heart of their communities. They provide excellent
opportunities for children to take part in fun activities and boost their confidence.
They help families juggle work and home life by giving parents greater flexibility
and providing parental support.
“But above all they give children the chance to take part in fun activities
- they can practice sports, learn a musical instrument, have drama classes or
simply catch up on their homework. And there is already clear evidence that activities
being offered across the country have had a positive influence on pupils.”
©John Battle MP 04 September 2007 |
John
Battle Member of Parliament for West Leeds.