Archived decisions

COUNCIL MEETING, 22 NOVEMBER 2007

REPORT OF THE

EXECUTIVE LEAD MEMBER FOR CHILDREN'S SERVICES (EDUCATION)

AND EXECUTIVE MEMBER FOR CHILDREN AND FAMILIES

COMMISSIONING STRATEGY FOR SUPPORT AND TRAINING OF SERVICES TO CHILDCARE PROVIDERS FROM 2008/09 TO 2010/11

1 The Executive Member for Children and Families has given approval for the Early Education and Childcare Unit (EECU) to implement a three year commissioning strategy for support and training services to childcare providers from 2008/09 to 2010/11. Also, an extension and variation of current contracts by up to twelve months, is to be negotiated for childcare support and training services, which end on 31 March 2008.

2 The implementation of the three year commissioning strategy will ensure that EECU contracts specifies work that meets the requirements of the Childcare Act, integrates with other elements of service delivery, is part of a joint commissioning approach and falls within budget. Furthermore by ending the current contracts, a review of the requirements for the commissioned support and training services can take place and contract service specifications can be reconfigured to take account of future funding and legislative changes. The services can be linked to the early years development and childcare's new strategic plan and contracts can be tendered at the right value. The time gained through the extension of current contracts will allow the EECU to ensure best value by raising market interest in the service provision and review of the number of potential organisations available to provide childcare support and training services. Copies of the Executive Member report on this matter are available in the Members' Rooms.

3 The decisions will enable organisations delivering early education and childcare to improve outcomes for children. This supports the Council's Corporate Priorities.

DAVID KIRK PATRICIA BANKS

Executive Lead Member for Executive Member for

Children's Services (Education) Children and Families