Around 300 two year olds in York from disadvantaged backgrounds could soon benefit from free nursery places for 15 hours a week from September 2013, thanks to Liberal Democrats in Government.
All three and four year olds are currently entitled to 15 hours of free early education a week across 38 weeks of the year but today Liberal Democrat Children’s Minister, Sarah Teather announced details of the expansion of the scheme to all two year olds who would qualify for free school meals.
Parents will also be able to take advantage of more flexibility in the scheme which, for example, will allow them to use the hours in two 7 ½ hour slots, giving them more opportunity to work.
Liberal Democrat spokesperson for Children and Young People’s Services, Councillor Keith Aspden welcomed the announcement. He said, “High quality early education is the key to making a difference early on in a child’s life and helping them make the most of their potential.”
“Targeting early education at those who stand to benefit most will be an integral part to disadvantaged children’s healthy development. It will help prevent children from falling behind before they have even started primary school.”
Councillor Aspden said the extra flexibility in the scheme would make it easier for parents who wanted to work. He said, “By allowing parents to be more flexible about when they make use of the free places the Government are making it easier for parents who want to work.”
“Balancing work and family life can be difficult and I am pleased to see Liberal Democrats in Government doing what they can to help.”

THE FINAL INSPECTION

The soldier stood and faced God,
Which must always come to pass.
He hoped his shoes were shining,
Just as brightly as his brass.

‘Step forward now, you soldier,
How shall I deal with you ?
Have you always turned the other cheek ?
To My Church have you been true?’

The soldier squared his shoulders and said,
‘No, Lord, I guess I ain’t.
Because those of us who carry guns,
Can’t always be a saint.

I’ve had to work most Sundays,
And at times my talk was tough.
And sometimes I’ve been violent,
Because the world is awfully rough.

But, I never took a penny,
That wasn’t mine to keep…
Though I worked a lot of overtime,
When the bills got just too steep.

And I never passed a cry for help,
Though at times I shook with fear.
And sometimes, God, forgive me,
I’ve wept unmanly tears.

I know I don’t deserve a place,
Among the people here.
They never wanted me around,
Except to calm their fears.

If you’ve a place for me here, Lord,
It needn’t be so grand.
I never expected or had too much,
But if you don’t, I’ll understand.

There was a silence all around the throne,
Where the saints had often trod.
As the soldier waited quietly,
For the judgment of his God.

‘Step forward now, you soldier,
You’ve borne your burdens well.
Walk peacefully on Heaven’s streets,
You’ve done your time in Hell.’

Author Unknown~