Sinn Féin MLA Cathy Mason has welcomed the announcement of £10 million which will allow schools and nurseries to secure new outdoor sports and play facilities, and desktop computers. 

The party’s early years spokesperson said: 

“Outdoor play is an important part of early childhood education, it supports health and well-being, boosts resilience and builds social and cognitive skills. 

“It is therefore welcome that nurseries will be supported to invest in new outdoor play facilities. 

“PE is something that has fallen off the radar in our education system and I am hopeful that this additional announcement is a signal of the minister’s intent to begin to address this issue.

“Also, the rollout of new desktop computers in schools is long overdue. The way our children and young people learn has transformed in recent years and they must be supported with the best possible resources.

“The minister must ensure that these announcements are followed up with action so that our schools and nurseries can benefit from this investment as soon as possible. I will also continue to press the minister for additional funding to be released to improve school facilities.”