Lack of pre-school places prompts call for providers

Powys County Council has reopened a search for early years providers in Newtown amid an ongoing shortage of pre-school places in the town.

The council is inviting applications from organisations able to deliver early years education, saying demand from local families continues to outstrip available provision.

The tender is open to providers across the private, voluntary, independent and charitable sectors, as well as social enterprises. Applicants are expected to meet current statutory and quality standards and demonstrate experience in delivering early years education.

Dr Richard Jones, the council’s Director of Education, said the shortage of places remains a concern.

He said: “We know the value that skilled early years providers bring to children, families and communities. Demand for places in Newtown continues to grow, and this tender offers experienced providers the chance to play a key role in strengthening local early years education and ensuring children get the best possible start.”

The council has not said how many places are currently lacking, but confirmed there is a continued shortfall in provision in the Newtown area.

Details of the contract, including requirements and eligibility criteria, have been published on the UK Government’s tender portal.

The deadline for applications is June 17.