06/01/2004

Minister launches pre-school initiative

A new advertising campaign aimed at encouraging parents to apply for a free pre-school place for their infants has been launched by Education Minister, Jane Kennedy.

Announcing the three-week TV and radio campaign, Ms Kennedy said good quality nursery education could improve children’s social, educational and emotional development and ensure they get off to the very best start in life.

“This year there are places for more than 90% of children in their immediate pre-school year, thanks to the Pre-School Education Expansion Programme," the Minister said. "I believe this initiative will make a huge difference to this generation of children and for future generations to come.

“I want to encourage parents to take up the opportunity of pre-school education for their children and apply before 28 January 2004.”

New and simpler application forms are now available from nurseries, playgroups and Education and Library Boards.

The closing date for applications is 28 January.

(MB)

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