The future of childcare provision at The Aldgate School remains uncertain, despite assurances that funding is in place until August 2027. Concerns were raised at a City of London Corporation meeting about the continuity of this vital service for the Aldgate and Portsoken area, identified as the most deprived in the City.
During the Court of Common Council meeting on Thursday, 21 May 2026, Deputy Marianne Fredericks sought clarification regarding conflicting letters sent to parents about 0-2 childcare provision at the school. The Chair of the Community and Children's Services Committee explained that an initial draft letter was distributed by the school earlier than agreed, leading to confusion when a subsequently amended version was issued. The Chair noted that two versions of letters were circulated, with the first issued on March 23rd and an amended version issued later. While the letters did not contradict each other, the early distribution of the initial draft caused confusion among parents.
Currently, there are nine two-year-olds in the 0-2 childcare service, with six of them being under two years old. Of these, only two are City residents. The Aldgate and Portsoken areas are set to receive continued focus, and families in these wards are entitled to access provision across the City.
While funding is secured until August 2027, the committee acknowledged that progress on a sustainable financial model for childcare at the school has been slow. Officers are continuing to work with The Aldgate School on its financial modelling, emphasizing that the school is a valued asset in the community.
The Ward of Portsoken had previously expressed deep concern regarding the future of childcare provision at The Aldgate School, urging the City of London Corporation to retain and continue support for early years childcare beyond 2027. They highlighted the critical importance of this provision in the Aldgate and Portsoken area, which faces significant deprivation.
The committee reiterated its commitment to childcare services across the City, with a particular focus on Portsoken. A subsidy scheme for lower-income families is available, though take-up has been low. The Chair pointed out that the threshold for the financial support scheme had been lowered, and while take-up had not increased recently, it remained open to residents. Members were encouraged to promote this support scheme to service users who might benefit.
The committee also noted that while libraries are well-used by families, there are no current plans to alter this service provision despite financial pressures on the Corporation.
Further discussions on childcare provision at The Aldgate School are scheduled for the Community and Children's Services Committee meeting in June 2026. The meeting agenda and reports can be found on the City of London Corporation's democracy portal: Agenda frontsheet 21st May 2026 and Public reports pack 21st May 2026.