AQW 26911/22-27 Written question to the Minister of Education
To ask the Minister of Education when he will confirm if any additional resources will be given to the Pathway Fund.
Asked by Nick Mathison MLA on 12 May 2025
- Answered
- Written
- Priority
- Tabled
- 12 May 2025
- Answer due by
- 15 May 2025
- Answered
- 15 May 20253 days after tabling
- Department
- Department of Education
- Priority question
- Yes
Answer
I have increased the maximum level of award for the Pathway Fund from £30,000 to £40,000 for Stream A and from £15,000 to £20,000 for Stream B, in light of increased costs of delivering services. I also plan to introduce an additional Stream C to provide specific support to Childminders and Approved Home Childcarers (AHCs).
However, the DE budget for Pathway cannot meet the additional demand and my plans for expansion. As you are aware, I have sought Executive agreement to provide additional funding to eligible Pathway applicants from the Early Learning and Childcare Strategy (ELCS) ring-fenced allocation in 2025-26.
If Executive approval is received, DE will confirm the additional funding with Early Years (EYO) which administers the Pathway Fund on behalf of the Department, who will notify recipient settings.