The school was successful in its application to the state government for $30,000 to refurbish facilities for the provision of the service and grow the number of children it can handle.

“We wanted to receive these funds so we could launch it as an option for more people in the community,” Medowie Christian School principal Simon Herd said.

“We have a large number of Defence Force families in this area and we want to bring this service to fruition through this grant.”

About 15 children are registered in the school’s before and after school care program but with some renovations it will have capacity for at least 50 but up to 100 children.

Before school care opens from 6am and after school care is open until 6pm. It includes meals, physical activities, project time and even help with homework.

“There’s not always a family network particularly with Defence families so this is a really good option for them,” Mr Herd said.

Parliamentary Secretary for the Hunter Scot MacDonald announced the grant on Monday.

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

“It’s especially good for RAAF families that might not have granddad or grandmum around.” 

With government supports in place it can cost families as little as $8 a day.

“We hear all the time how expensive childcare is but before and after school care is really good in terms of affordability.”

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.

“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.