Knaresborough playgroup under threat of closure
A LONG-established Knaresborough playgroup is facing closure unless new staff can be found.
Playmates Playgroup was started in the early 1970s and has been a thriving playgroup for around 40 years, but with a shortage of qualified staff now coming forward to help out, the playgroup may have to close by Easter leaving around 20 children without a playgroup place.
Committee member for Playmates, Elisa Stevens said: "Since Ofsted changed the rules about qualified staff running playgroups, we have found a shortage of staff with the required minimum NVQ Level 2 in Childcare qualification coming forward.
"I think other playgroups are in the same position, we used to be able to do training on the job for new staff members, but that is not the case anymore.
"Although we have one qualified staff member, we desperately need another person to help out otherwise we cannot continue the group and our children will not have a playgroup to go to.
"Even if it's just for a few hours a week, we'd be pleased to hear from anyone who'd like to join us. Our fund raising is going so well and it 's really disappointing that staffing issues could become the reason the group may close.
The group meets on Wetherby Road and is a popular playgroup for local children, many of whom go on to attend nearby Aspin Park Primary School.
Another committe member, Louise Abeyawardene added: "This is a fantastic pre-school playgroup. We're lucky to be supported by a very engaged and committed group of parents who are eager to see it continue.
"The committee meet again in two weeks time and I'm really hoping we'll have some good news then and that the group can carry on."
* If you can help Playmates, please contact Louise on 01423 797589.
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Saturday 11 February 2012
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