Threat hangs over Largo playgroup
Happier days at the playgroup.
AFTER 40 years of pre-schooling children, Largo playgroup is facing a crisis to stay open.
The independent group has blamed recently implemented legisalation, including the introduction of education funding for three-year-olds, and the statutory employment of a manager, for draining finances.
Manager Shirley Faichney says the group is also suffering due to the amount of properties in the area being bought by second home owners, which is driving down the local population.
She added that, with a staff team of five to support, had it not been for the fundraising efforts of the playgroup’s parent committee, the group would most likely have had to close this year.
The Largo playgroup manager added: “Having a current roll of 22 children – aged from two and a half to five years – it is concerning where these children would receive their education from..
“Local authority nurseries are busy and also a considerable distance for families, some who don’t have transport.
“Like many other playgroups, numbers of children attending the playgroup have diminished over the years, with some parents preferring to send their children to local authority nursery when they become eligible for education grants.
“A decreased permanent population within the local community and the additional strain of employing a manager last year has proved difficult for the group.”
The group is based in Montrave Hall, with a purpose built garden.
Added Mrs Faichney: “Playgroups offer a valuable and unique opportunity for parents to be involved in their child’s early education and we welcome children from all areas, we currently have children who attend from the East Neuk, Leven and Methilhill.
“The playgroup intends to battle on.”
An open day will be held at the nursery on Monday, May 21, from 10am until noon.
For details call 07917743564 or e-mail largoplaygroup@hotmail.co.uk
You can also follow Largo pre-School playgroup on Facebook.
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Friday 24 May 2013
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