I propose to take Questions Nos. 297 and 348 together.
The department is supportive of school facilities being used for after-hours school-age childcare, and for early learning and care where there is available accommodation that is not required for school-aged education purposes. The Procedures are relevant in providing guidance to schools in this regard. However, it is important that educational requirements, including special education provision, takes precedence for the use of school accommodation.
School authorities considering facilitating such services on school property should ensure that any service provider can confirm compliance with all relevant child protection/childcare legislation, guidelines and regulations. The recommended approach is that where Early Learning and Care is proposed, subject to the relevant consents of Property Owners/Trustee and Patron, rooms or premises may be made available to third parties (registered childcare providers) by means of a legal agreement.
