Decision details

The purpose of the report is to look at the options available for the continuation of claiming the GMCA Discretionary Learning support funding without breaching our contract by:-
•Outlining the required changes of childcare provision using GMCA Discretionary Learning Support funding from 1st August 2022.
•Set out the necessary/proposed changes that Lifelong Learning will implement from 1st August 2021

RESOLVED - That:
Option 4 has been agreed, namely, that Oldham Lifelong Learning service ceases its Oldham and Werneth Park Ofsted Childcare registered centres. One full time Childcare Support Coordinator remains in place and sources external childcare places and supports learners to access these. By continuing to offer sourcing suitable external Childcare provision we will be able to continue to support learners at risk of not starting or continuing learning because of childcare costs and will be able to continue to claim the Discretionary Learner Support funding.

Option 1:- Retain existing creche infrastructure.
Option 2:- The Service formally buys the creche service from the Council.
Option 3:- Private provider hires the creche facilities including staff.
Option 4:- Oldham Council ceases its Oldham and Werneth Park Ofsted Childcare registered centres. One full time Childcare Support Coordinator remains in place and sources external childcare places and supports learners to access these. By continuing to offer sourcing suitable external Childcare provision we will be able to continue to support learners at risk of not starting or continuing learning because of childcare costs and will be able to continue to claim the Discretionary Learner Support funding.

Option 1
Option 2
Option 3

Lifelong Learning Service SMT
Director Education, Early Years and Skills
AD Economic Growth
HR
Cabinet Member
Curriculum Managers
Creche staff and Trade Unions