Programme Development is at the very heart of what 4Children is all about.

The team devises and delivers innovative programmes which enhance the lives and social development of children in their communities. These programmes enrich the experiences of children, stretching their potential, introducing new skills and helping to build their confidence, whilst also providing training opportunities for the childcare workforce.

Much of the activity is also in response to priorities in the “Every Child Matters” Green Paper, focusing on key policy areas such as child health, education, social inclusion and children’s participation.

All the programmes aim to engage the wider community by building local capacity and developing local, regional and national networks. Working in partnership with trusts, foundations, Local Authorities, community organisations and childcare settings, the programmes encourage cross-cultural exchange and create the infrastructure for sustainable growth of activities – widening access for all children and young people.

Programme Development supports and reinforces the work of the Social Enterprise and Strategic Support arms of Development 4Children, testing out new approaches through trailblazer projects which can then be translated into policy, products and services.