The City of London Corporation has voted to continue subsidising childcare at The Aldgate School, the Square Mile's only state school, following a two-year campaign by parents and community members. The decision, made on Tuesday, September 8, secures funding for the provision, which covers children aged three months to three years, and was hailed as a “huge victory” by campaigners.
Funding secured after two-year campaign
The service had been under threat of closure after Corporation members initially decided in March 2024 to change how childcare was delivered in the Square Mile. Parents and stakeholders fought to retain the provision at the school, citing unique benefits such as outdoor space, continuity for children, and a more affordable price point compared to other local providers.
Corporation officers had recommended a subsidy of up to £60,000 annually to keep the service running, and members voted in favour at Tuesday's meeting. The subsidy will be subject to an annual review.
Parents and governors welcome decision
Wayne Daly, a parent involved in the campaign, said: “This is a huge victory for City of London families and our community after two years of campaigning. The Aldgate School shows what’s possible when school-based childcare is properly supported, and we hope this decision helps protect and champion this model for the future.”
Beverley Ryan, Chair of Governors at the school, told the meeting that without the Corporation subsidy the provision would close. She said: “We have explored all possibilities of alternative funding to the City providing a subsidy, and the simple answer is: it isn't viable. It isn't viable to offer affordable childcare without some sort of subsidy. The sums just didn't add up.”
Ms Ryan also told the Local Democracy Reporting Service (LDRS) she is “delighted” at the decision, which would enable the service to continue to be delivered at the school.
Community and political support
Common Councillor David Williams, whose children attended the school, thanked parents and the wider community who had fought to maintain the provision. He noted that The Aldgate School is not the only educational facility receiving a subsidy from the Corporation, with a number of private providers getting business rates relief “of varying degrees”.
Williams highlighted the intangible benefits of the provision, saying: “A huge part of the intangible benefit of this provision is it allows particularly nervous babies and nervous parents, and I think there are equal numbers of both, to progress from a baby room to a reception class in formal schooling in a way which is in one environment. They have one playground, they share friends, they share teachers, and that is just an incredible benefit to those children, to those families, but also to the school.”
Rachel Blake, MP for Cities of London and Westminster, said she was “happy” to hear the provision was saved, adding: “I have met with teachers, parents and carers and have seen first-hand the standard of care offered to children of those living and working in The City of London. Parents deserve the breathing space to support their own careers and to ensure they give their child the best start in life.”
Anna Lee, GMB Regional Organiser, said: “GMB is delighted that the Corporation has decided to support this vital community service. Two years of campaigning has paid off and the early years provision is now safe. This is a fantastic result for our members at the Child and Family Centre and for families in the City of London. It also shows the value of being part of a campaigning union.”
Corporation responds and parking charges reviewed
A City of London Corporation spokesperson said: “We know how important affordable childcare is to local families. We worked closely with the school and listened to the views of parents and the community before making a decision. Members took into account the fact the level of funding requested has significantly reduced and the school has explored alternative financial modelling options. We’re pleased the support we have now agreed will enable the school to continue providing a valued service for families.”
The decision follows another committee meeting earlier in the day, at which members agreed not to impose Sunday parking charges following concerns from historic local churches, such as St Bride’s off Fleet Street, which warned the charges would impact their congregations. Amendments to charges the rest of the week were agreed as the Corporation looks to make its rules fairer and more aligned with modern travel patterns.
A City of London Corporation spokesperson said: “After the first comprehensive review of the City's parking controls since 2009, we believe this is a balanced package that supports residents, reflects how the Square Mile is used today, and helps create safer, greener and more accessible streets for everyone. We’d also like to express gratitude to the local residents, businesses and community groups for their constructive feedback throughout the consultation process.”
