A group of 63 persons were awarded certificates after completing an intensive course for child carers organised by the Employment and Training Centre (ETC). The Childcare Scheme and Courses was one of the first EU co-financed projects.

The ETC has applied for funds from the 2004-2006 Structural funds Programme for Malta available from the European Social Fund to train prospective child carers in child development, nutrition, health and safety, hygiene, childcare education, play activities, child welfare, equal opportunities, disability issues and first aid.

The duration of the course was of 800 hours, out of which 500 were work experience in a licensed childcare centre. This project has helped a number of employers to open a childcare centre at the place of work.

During the certificate award ceremony, Project leader Anna Borg gave a presentation on the outcome of this initiative, while Social Welfare Standards Department Director, Dr Kenneth Grech, spoke about the development of childcare centres and the new regulations for the benefit of children. Family and Social Solidarity Minister Dolores Cristina, presented the certificates to the child carers.