Julie Edge MHK secured a significant win for families and young children when Tynwald officially approved her department’s Early Years and Childcare Strategy—a foundational commitment in the Island Plan and a personal priority throughout her time as Minister for Education, Sport and Culture.
The strategy, which Julie first introduced in March 2022, aims to ensure that every child across the Isle of Man gets the best possible start in life, with a focus on affordability, accessibility, and quality provision for working families.
“This isn’t just about childcare,” Edge said during the Tynwald debate. “It’s about building a stronger, fairer future for our children and ensuring families are supported from the very beginning.”
Delivering on the Island Plan Vision
Julie Edge’s strategy is rooted in the Island Plan’s broader goals of improving social mobility, reducing inequality, and modernising education infrastructure. With the plan now approved by Tynwald, the Department of Education, Sport and Culture can push forward with:
- Expanded free and subsidised childcare offerings for eligible families
- Greater support and training for early years professionals
- Collaborations with private and third-sector providers to boost capacity
- A clear roadmap for long-term childcare policy delivery on the island
These priorities are set to benefit not only children, but parents returning to work, early years educators, and the wider Manx economy.
Standing Up for Families
This Tynwald approval follows months of groundwork, including Julie’s ministerial statement in March 2022, where she first laid out the strategy’s core goals and called for collective commitment across government and society.
“We are now in a position to deliver meaningful and lasting reform,” she said. “The evidence is clear—investment in early childhood is one of the smartest, most impactful investments a society can make.”
Leading with ActionJulie Edge’s drive and determination to bring this strategy through Tynwald is a reflection of her leadership style: focused, practical, and people-first. With this policy now in motion, she has again proven that campaign promises can become real, lasting outcomes—when backed by vision and resolve.
Date: 19 July 2022.
Location: Tynwald Court, Isle of Man
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