Early childhood education and adult literacy get Budget boost

4.20 pm

Early childhood education and adult literacy programmes were the big winners in today's Budget, says Education Minister Trevor Mallard.

The Budget includes an extra $467 million over four years for education, including nearly $30 million to implement the Government's policy of equity funding for the early childhood education sector.

"Quality childhood education is a key tool to reduce disparities across communities in New Zealand. Research shows it increases a child's chance of educational achievement later in life," Mr Mallard said.

The extra money would be targeted at licensed and chartered community-based early childhood education services in low socio-economic or isolated areas. Other factors such as special education needs would also be taken into account, he said.

Over the next few months, the Government will develop a model to ensure the funding is distributed equally.

Mr Mallard said the early childhood funding subsidy of 2.8 per cent would also be adjusted.

He said the new rates would range from $1.10 an hour for children in licence-exempt centres to $3.56, the top rate for children aged two and over, and $5.92, the top rate for children under two."

The Government has also doubled funding for adult literacy, setting aside $18 million over four years to fund the Adult Literacy Strategy, which was released earlier this month.

The strategy – to be overseen by Associate Education Minister, Marian Hobbs – aims to provide a comprehensive, long-term approach to improving adult literacy.

"The Government believes all New Zealanders should enjoy a level of literacy which enables them to participate fully in all aspects of life, including work, family and the community.

"It is the foundation for further learning needed to build a knowledge society. This funding will help realise the goal," Mr Mallard said.

www.nzherald.co.nz/budget

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