The Isles of Scilly Early Years Service strives to secure and promote the highest standards of childcare, pre-school early education and parental support as is achievable across the Islands.
Funding for the service comes from the Council of the Isles of Scilly and the Sure Start Unit, part of the DfES. Sure Start is a government programme that aims to achieve better outcomes for children, parents and communities by:
- increasing the availability of childcare for all children;
- improving health and emotional development for young children;
- supporting parents as parents and in their aspirations toward employment.
The Isles of Scilly Early Years Service is committed to ensuring that a high quality range of child support services are available throughout the community. Affordable and accessible childcare is at the heart of service delivery whether this is through registered day-care provision, child minders or holiday clubs. Overcoming geographical challenges to ensure there are equitable levels of provision across the Islands are considered in an attempt to meet the needs of all local children and parents.
The Isles of Scilly Early Years Service cooperates with other partners to ensure the very best levels of service may be offered from the early stages of need. Strong links with health, social services and the school help to make the Early Years service as integrated and responsive to local demand as possible.
The Isles of Scilly Early Years Service coordinate a variety of services aimed at bringing quality and opportunities to children and parents. Many of these activities are coordinated from the Children's Centre at Carn Thomas on St.Mary's. A substantial Toy Library is managed that may be accessed by local and visiting parents alike. Training for Childcare staff is arranged to ensure staff are meeting and exceeding national requirements. Outreach sessions to engage children and parents are frequently delivered across the Islands.
An up to date and accurate Childcare Information System (CIS) is obtainable by contacting the Early Years office. Please contact for any information relating to childcare, early education, parental support or other issues relating to children and young people in Scilly.
Information for Parents
The Early Years Service has published a guide covering services for families in Scilly. An electronic version is available at Children's Services Guide This colourful guide was designed by local artist Jenny Nightingale.
