BETWS primary is set to accept children from the age of three after councillors approved plans to extend the age range.

Members have approved the proposal for four Carmarthenshire primary schools where the age range is currently four to 11 years.

The three other primary schools included in the plans are Bynea, Pembrey and Pwll.

Headteachers, governors and parents were consulted about the move to extend the age range of the schools to ensure continuity of progression for pupils into school from the Flying Start programme, which targets prevention services in geographic areas of deprivation in Wales.

The aim is to improve outcomes for families and prepare young children for school.

Following the council decision, a statutory notice will be published in the summer term and the change will be introduced following final approval.

Education executive board member Cllr Gareth Jones said: β€œIt is good news for families in these catchment areas, that their local schools will now be able to offer children this opportunity.”

The core elements of the Flying Start programme are: Free, quality, part-time childcare; An enhanced health visiting service; Access to parenting programmes; Early language development.

For further information on Flying Start Carmarthenshire, contact the team on 01554 742447 or visit the council website carmarthenshire.gov.wales.