All schools to become 'extended schools', pledges local MP

Jim Dobbin MP

31 schools in Rochdale Metropolitan Borough local authority are offering extended services including breakfast clubs, out-of-hours tuition and after-school clubs in sport, music and drama, according to figures highlighted by local MP Jim Dobbin this week.

Jim Dobbin, Labour MP for Heywood, Middleton, Castleton, Norden and Bamford, said that the Government wanted all schools to become “extended schools” by 2010 and had reached a milestone to have over 7,000 extended schools across England two months ahead of schedule.

The Government wants all families with children up to 14, who require it, to have access to affordable, flexible and high quality childcare from 8am to 6pm. This could be provided through a local extended school.

Rochdale Council received £1,076,381 to fund extended services in schools during 2007/08. Funding for the next three years to ensure all schools become extended schools will be announced later this year.  

Jim Dobbin MP said: “Schools in our area have worked really hard to start offering extended services to pupils. We now have 31 extended schools and with extra funding from the Labour Government, all schools in our area will become extended schools by 2010.

“I know that extended services are popular with parents and children and can help to put schools at the heart of their communities. They provide excellent opportunities for children to take part in fun activities and boost their confidence. They help families juggle work and home life by giving parents greater flexibility and providing parental support.

“But above all they give children the chance to take part in fun activities - they can practice sports, learn a musical instrument, have drama classes or simply catch up on their homework. And there is already clear evidence that activities being offered across the country have had a positive influence on pupils.”