Latest news with #EarlyEducation
ITV News
30-06-2025
- ITV News
'Campaign for Gigi' receives backing from Supernanny TV star as parents head to Parliament
The parents of a nine-month-old baby girl, who was killed by her nursery worker, are due to meet with the Minister for Early Education later, as their calls for a change in the law receives the backing of Supernanny star, Jo Frost. CCTV captured Genevieve 'Gigi' Meehan struggling to breathe after being tightly swaddled and strapped face down on a beanbag for more than an hour and a half at the now closed Tiny Toes nursery in Cheadle Hulme, Stockport, in May 2022. Kate Roughley, who was the nursery's deputy manager at the time of baby Genevieve's death, was found guilty of manslaughter and jailed for 14 years in May 2024. Genevieve's parents - who recently launched a campaign to improve safety standards in early years settings - will travel to London on Monday, 30 June, to outline their calls for change in a meeting with Stephen Morgan MP. Campaign for Gigi - what is it and how could it make early years setting safer? Genevieve's family believe the "system failed her and urgent reforms are needed", which is why they have launched a campaign to change the law and make early years settings, like nurseries and pre-schools, safer. In an open letter published ahead of today's meeting with Stephen Morgan MP, Genevieve's parents, Katie Wheeler and John Meehan, said: "At the heart of our campaign is the safety of children. Children are amongst the most vulnerable members of society, and we know the terrible consequences that can occur when children are failed. "Our Campaign concerns three main points; the use of CCTV within nursery settings, improved practises around safe sleep and changes to the Ofsted inspection process." What are the three main points of the campaign? Use of CCTV Compulsory CCTV in nursery settings Review of CCTV footage during Ofsted inspections Ofsted inspection process Unannounced inspections by Ofsted to be routine in early years settings Safe sleep Speaking to Granada Reports in June 2025, John, Gigi's dad, said the most "crucial" goal of the campaign is to introduce compulsory cameras into nurseries because, without it, "we simply would have no answers as to what happened". He added: "We'd be left in a situation where Genevieve died and we wouldn't know the reason." The couple are also campaigning for safe sleep guidance and mandatory safe sleep training, as well as routine unannounced inspections by Ofsted, which would require inspectors to review CCTV footage as part of their inspection. John said: "I believe many parents will be quite concerned to realise that for these settings, they're only inspected, roughly once every six years. "You could have a child that attended a nursery from a young age and, throughout the entire period that they're at that nursery until school age, it's never inspected. That can't be right. "We wouldn't accept that in any other area. We shouldn't accept that for early years at settings." Genevieve's parents - who are asking people to contact their MPs - said: "The changes we are seeking are simple and straightforward. "Currently the Government is taking steps to increase the number of places available in nurseries. "Whilst this is admirable, it is likely to increase pressure on nurseries. "If we do not do everything we can to ensure children are safe, we fear that it will be children that arethe victims of that pressure." Katie and John have already received the backing of the Lullaby Trust and their local MP, Tom Morrison, who recently put forward an Early Day Motion (EDM) on "safe sleeping standards in early years settings" in Parliament in support of the bereaved parents' campaign. University lecturer in early childhood and education, Adele Harwood, is also supportive and believes the campaign will result in stronger safeguarding measures in the early years sector. Ms Harwood said: "As a university lecturer, I believe it is crucial to ensure that all children are protected and supported, and Gigi's campaign and the proposed goals will help bring much needed attention to this vital issue." Today, Supernanny star Jo Frost - who is a world-renowned parenting expert and child advocate - announced her support for the campaign, as she called for "urgent" changes. 'Gigi's life mattered. Her death must not be in vain,' said Frost. 'We must move from grief to governance—from tragedy to tangible reform.' She added: 'Too many families place trust in nursery settings assuming their children are safe". 'One failure in safeguarding is all it takes to end a life—and that failure is on the system, not just the individual.' As well as backing Genevieve's campaign, Jo has also outlined four further changes that she would like to see. Genevieve's parents spoke to Emma Sweeney about the campaign A Department for Education spokesperson said the government was "committed to doing everything possible to keep children safe". 'Genevieve's death was a tragedy and should never have happened," it said. "This government is committed to doing everything possible keep children safe, as part of our mission to break down barriers to opportunity and give every child the best start in life. 'We are introducing a wide range of strengthened safeguarding measures from September 2025, including enhanced recruitment practices to further prevent unsuitable individuals from working with children and new whistleblowing requirements to help ensure that all early years educators understand how to escalate any safeguarding concerns. 'We will continue to closely monitor whether any further changes are needed to keep children as safe as possible.'
Gulf Insider
10-06-2025
- General
- Gulf Insider
Abu Dhabi Introduces Arabic Rule for KG Students
Abu Dhabi has introduced new rules for mandatory Arabic lessons for pupils starting in the next academic year. The Abu Dhabi Department of Education and Knowledge (ADEK) announced a new policy that will bring Arabic into every private and charter kindergarten across the emirate, starting from Pre-KG to KG2, beginning after summer in 2025. The move aims to nurture language, identity, and belonging from the very first years of learning. Under the new ADEK School KG Arabic Curriculum Policy, all young learners will receive 240 minutes per week of structured, age-appropriate Arabic instruction. This will increase to 300 minutes per week beginning in the 2026/27 academic year. The new policy ensures that every child, whether a native speaker or learning Arabic for the first time, receives consistent, high-quality instruction during the most critical phase of language development and has the opportunity to grow up confident in the language that connects them to their culture, community, and future. This initiative is timely as research confirms that young children learn languages most effectively and Arabic represents more than a subject, it is a connection to identity, values and heritage. ADEK's recent survey showed that while Arabic is widely spoken at home, many children still struggle to use it confidently. This policy bridges that gap with schools and families working together to keep Arabic alive and thriving. Learning will be engaging, built around play, storytelling, songs, and exploration. The policy outlines two tracks: One designed to deepen mother tongue skills for native Arabic speakers Another tailored for non-native speakers and newcomers This will ensure that each child is supported at their level, whether native speaker or beginner. And with specially trained teachers, modern materials, and exciting classroom activities, Arabic will become a language students look forward to using every day. Mariam Al Hallami, Executive Director Early Education, said: 'This is about more than just adding Arabic lessons. It's about giving every child in Abu Dhabi the gift of language, identity, and connection starting from day one. We want Arabic to feel natural, interactive and alive in every classroom and every home.' This new policy bridges the gap between Arabic learning in nurseries, implemented through ADEK's Early Education Institutions (EEI) policies, and the start of mandatory Arabic instruction in Cycle 1 in line with Ministry of Education requirements, supporting steady language development during the early years. Parents are also a big part of the journey. Schools will share tools and updates, so families can join in the fun, whether practicing new words at home, reading stories together, or taking part in Arabic-themed school events. Also read: UAE Weather: Fog Alert in Abu Dhabi, NCM Forecasts Rain on Monday
Khaleej Times
09-06-2025
- General
- Khaleej Times
Abu Dhabi mandates 4 hours of weekly Arabic lessons for KG students in private schools
Abu Dhabi's education authority on Monday announced a new policy requiring kindergartens in private and educational partnership schools to allocate 240 minutes (four hours) per week for Arabic language instruction. This directive will start from the first semester of the 2025–2026 academic year, the Department of Education and Knowledge (Adek) confirmed. The directive applies to all early childhood education levels — from pre-kindergarten (first foundation stage) to second kindergarten (first year). The weekly Arabic instruction time will further increase to 300 minutes (five hours) starting in the 2026–2027 school year. According to Adek, the initiative aims to strengthen Arabic language skills among young learners while fostering cultural identity and a sense of belonging from the earliest years of education. The move is part of broader efforts to enhance language acquisition and preserve national heritage through early and consistent exposure to Arabic during formative learning stages.
Yahoo
27-04-2025
- Automotive
- Yahoo
Free fun for kids at the 28th annual 'Kidfest'
BAY COUNTY, Fla. (WMBB) – Something big was brewing at the Central Panhandle Fairgrounds on Saturday. The Early Education and Care Head Start program is hosting its biggest event of the year to celebrate the little ones. They held their 28th annual 'Kidfest'. Early education and care is an educational program for children that also provides comprehensive services for families. It is a day about the kiddos, with 40 different agencies providing all sorts of fun activities for the children. Program Director Janice Flowers says the event offers free fun for children. ASCENT's Technology Expo aims to inspire careers in STEM fields 'It is truly rewarding to see the smiles on our children's faces, but also the smiles on the parents' faces. Too, to see because it's not a lot of things that are being provided today for children. That's not expensive. You can walk into these gates today for free and have fun,' Early Education & Care Head Start Program Director Janice Flowers said. They were joined by law enforcement agencies, like the Panama City Fire Department, the Bay County Sheriff's Office, and the Florida Highway Patrol. The Florida Highway Patrol brought a car crash simulator machine to teach children about car safety. PanCare and the health department were also there to provide physicals and dental exams for children. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
Yahoo
25-02-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
ASX Penny Stock Spotlight Algorae Pharmaceuticals And Two More Companies
The Australian market has recently experienced a downturn, with the ASX 200 setting a new 20-day low, influenced by global trade uncertainties and flat commodity prices. Despite these challenges, certain investment opportunities remain appealing, particularly in sectors like Utilities and Health Care that have shown resilience. Penny stocks may seem like an outdated concept, but they continue to offer potential for growth at lower price points when backed by strong financials. In this article, we explore three such penny stocks on the ASX that stand out for their robust balance sheets and promising prospects. Name Share Price Market Cap Financial Health Rating Embark Early Education (ASX:EVO) A$0.79 A$144.95M ★★★★☆☆ Perenti (ASX:PRN) A$1.16 A$1.07B ★★★★★★ Austin Engineering (ASX:ANG) A$0.45 A$279.07M ★★★★★☆ IVE Group (ASX:IGL) A$2.34 A$362.44M ★★★★☆☆ GTN (ASX:GTN) A$0.54 A$106.04M ★★★★★★ Helloworld Travel (ASX:HLO) A$2.05 A$333.78M ★★★★★★ Southern Cross Electrical Engineering (ASX:SXE) A$1.745 A$461.15M ★★★★★★ Bisalloy Steel Group (ASX:BIS) A$3.21 A$153.77M ★★★★★★ Dusk Group (ASX:DSK) A$1.03 A$64.14M ★★★★★★ EZZ Life Science Holdings (ASX:EZZ) A$2.00 A$94.35M ★★★★★★ Click here to see the full list of 1,034 stocks from our ASX Penny Stocks screener. Let's explore several standout options from the results in the screener. Simply Wall St Financial Health Rating: ★★★★★★ Overview: Algorae Pharmaceuticals Limited is a pharmaceutical development company focused on the research and development of living cells technologies primarily in New Zealand, with a market cap of A$11.81 million. Operations: The company's revenue segment consists of A$0.13 million from its research and development activities in living cell technologies. Market Cap: A$11.81M Algorae Pharmaceuticals, with a market cap of A$11.81 million, is pre-revenue and focuses on the research and development of living cell technologies. Despite its unprofitability and negative return on equity, the company benefits from being debt-free for five years and has short-term assets exceeding liabilities by a significant margin. The management team is relatively new, with an average tenure of 1.6 years, indicating potential for strategic shifts. While its share price has been highly volatile recently, Algorae maintains a cash runway sufficient for over a year based on current free cash flow levels without shareholder dilution in the past year. Click here to discover the nuances of Algorae Pharmaceuticals with our detailed analytical financial health report. Understand Algorae Pharmaceuticals' track record by examining our performance history report. Simply Wall St Financial Health Rating: ★★★★☆☆ Overview: Boom Logistics Limited offers lifting solutions across sectors such as mining, infrastructure, and telecommunications in Australia and the Pacific region, with a market cap of A$63.34 million. Operations: The company's revenue is primarily derived from its Lifting Solutions segment, which generated A$261.28 million. Market Cap: A$63.34M Boom Logistics, with a market cap of A$63.34 million, has recently become profitable, reporting A$19.01 million net income for the half-year ending December 2024. Trading significantly below its estimated fair value, Boom's financial health is underscored by reduced debt levels and cash exceeding total debt. The company's short-term assets cover immediate liabilities but fall short against long-term obligations. Despite low return on equity at 16.9%, Boom exhibits high-quality earnings and stable weekly volatility at 5%. Its management and board are experienced, with average tenures of 2.1 and 3.3 years respectively, suggesting stability in leadership. Unlock comprehensive insights into our analysis of Boom Logistics stock in this financial health report. Explore historical data to track Boom Logistics' performance over time in our past results report. Simply Wall St Financial Health Rating: ★★★★★☆ Overview: WT Financial Group Limited offers a variety of financial services and has a market capitalization of A$46.20 million. Operations: The company's revenue is primarily derived from B2B Services, generating A$183.77 million, with an additional A$1.52 million coming from B2C Services. Market Cap: A$46.2M WT Financial Group, with a market cap of A$46.20 million, generates substantial revenue from B2B services (A$183.77 million) and maintains high-quality earnings despite negative earnings growth last year. The company's financial health is solid, with short-term assets exceeding both short- and long-term liabilities, and cash surpassing total debt. Although the return on equity is low at 13.1%, its interest payments are well covered by EBIT (6.3x). The board's experienced tenure averages 7.2 years, while shareholders haven't faced significant dilution recently. Despite stable weekly volatility at 12%, share price fluctuations remain high over three months. Click here and access our complete financial health analysis report to understand the dynamics of WT Financial Group. Gain insights into WT Financial Group's past trends and performance with our report on the company's historical track record. Gain an insight into the universe of 1,034 ASX Penny Stocks by clicking here. Have you diversified into these companies? Leverage the power of Simply Wall St's portfolio to keep a close eye on market movements affecting your investments. Maximize your investment potential with Simply Wall St, the comprehensive app that offers global market insights for free. Explore high-performing small cap companies that haven't yet garnered significant analyst attention. Jump on the AI train with fast growing tech companies forging a new era of innovation. Find companies with promising cash flow potential yet trading below their fair value. This article by Simply Wall St is general in nature. We provide commentary based on historical data and analyst forecasts only using an unbiased methodology and our articles are not intended to be financial advice. It does not constitute a recommendation to buy or sell any stock, and does not take account of your objectives, or your financial situation. We aim to bring you long-term focused analysis driven by fundamental data. Note that our analysis may not factor in the latest price-sensitive company announcements or qualitative material. Simply Wall St has no position in any stocks mentioned. Companies discussed in this article include ASX:1AI ASX:BOL and ASX:WTL. Have feedback on this article? Concerned about the content? with us directly. Alternatively, email editorial-team@
