Province to remove barriers, make way for more child care at schools

The Province has introduced legislation to enable school districts in B.C. to support families with more child care on school grounds.

“As a parent, I know that finding safe, convenient and affordable child care is a top priority for young families, but it’s not always easy,” said Premier David Eby. “We are building a seamless child care system in our province that supports parents from the early years through to graduation. This legislation is the first step on the path to getting more child care on school grounds all across our province. Using our existing infrastructure and partnering with school districts is a smart, sustainable solution that puts existing resources to their best use for families.”

On Tuesday, Oct. 7, 2025, government tabled Bill 19, the school amendment act. If passed, this act will enable school districts to provide child care to children of all ages, including infants and toddlers. Districts also will be allowed to provide care during non-school days, such as professional development days, and winter, spring and summer breaks.

These changes could also improve the ability of school districts to support sustainable child care programs or expansions by ensuring districts can recover reasonable costs, similar to how non-for-profit centres can operate. School districts will work with local communities and First Nations to inform expansion planning and how best to meet community needs.

“Our successful child care on school grounds pilots in places like Okanagan-Similkameen have shown us what’s possible when we work in partnership with local districts,” said Lisa Beare, Minister of Education and Child Care. “Not only will these changes make way for more access to high-quality care before and after school, younger kids will also get a chance to familiarize themselves with spaces and faces at school, setting them up for success for their future K-12 journey.”