City of London childcare subsidy extended

Childcare at The Aldgate School, the City of London's sole state-funded educational establishment, will continue after City of London Corporation members voted to maintain a subsidy for the service. The decision follows a two-year campaign by parents who had argued for the provision's continuation.

The childcare service, which caters for children from three months to three years old, faced discontinuation as part of wider changes to childcare delivery in the Square Mile. Parents advocated for its retention, highlighting benefits such as continuity for children, access to outdoor space, and more affordable fees compared to other local options. Corporation officers had recommended an annual subsidy of up to £60,000 to keep the service operational.

Parental Campaign Secures Funding

Wayne Daly, a parent involved in the campaign, expressed hope that the decision would "help protect and champion this model for the future." The Aldgate School, located in the Portsoken ward, has integrated childcare on site. The school previously operated a children's centre for over two decades, through which the early years service was delivered. This centre was decommissioned in 2025, leading to an extension of funding for the childcare provision until August 2027.

Common Councillor David Williams acknowledged the efforts of parents and the community in maintaining the provision. He noted the intangible benefits of a consistent environment for young children transitioning into formal schooling. Beverley Ryan, Chair of Governors at The Aldgate School, stated that the provision would close without the Corporation's subsidy, explaining that alternative funding sources had proven unviable. "The sums just didn't add up," she told the meeting.

The subsidy agreement will be subject to an annual review. A spokesperson for the City of London Corporation stated that members considered the reduced funding request and the school's exploration of alternative financial models. They added that the agreed support would enable the school to continue offering a valued service.

Next Steps

The subsidy will be reviewed annually. The City of London Corporation has agreed to provide financial support to The Aldgate School's childcare service for at least the next three years, with funding extending until August 2027.