Parliamentary Secretary for the Hunter Scot MacDonald MLC announced Port Stephens families will be able to access before and after school care thanks to a $30,000 grant from the NSW Liberal National Government.

Medowie Christian School has been awarded $30,000 to establish new out of school hours care programs, creating up to 100 new before and after school places for students.

Mr MacDonald joined the Principal of Medowie Christian School Simon Herd to congratulate the school on securing the grant from the Before and After School Care Fund, a $20 million NSW Government initiative designed to create more places in out of school hours care programs across the State.

“This funding is great news for busy families, who need the extra flexibility that before and after school care provides,” said Mr MacDonald.

Minister for Early Childhood Education Sarah Mitchell said applications are open for the third phase of Before and After School Care Fund grants.

“This program is open to all schools in NSW that would like to establish or expand an out of school hours care program,” Mrs Mitchell said.

“Local councils and not-for-profit service providers that have unmet demand for before and after school care are also eligible to apply.

“Grants of up to $30,000 are available to help with costs such as fit-outs, tendering or equipment.

“Through this grant program, the NSW Government is helping young families to access the support they need.”

For more information on the Before and After School Care Fund, visit the Department of Education website at www.dec.nsw.gov.au/our-services/children-and-youth/out-of-hours-school-care-grant.