A NEWPORT headteachers' representative has welcomed the education minister's admission that more funding will be needed for a new early years programme.

Gareth Gillingham was concerned head teachers would be forced to implement a "watered down" Foundation Phase because of inadequate cash.

He was also unhappy that the scheme was being introduced in a rolling programme over four years instead of being available in every school from September as originally proposed.

Foundation Phase represents a major change in the way three to seven-year-olds will be taught.

Pilot projects, including two in Newport, have already proved successful and it is due to roll out nationally from September.

But Assembly leaders have come in for criticism from bodies like the National Association of Headteachers.

While NAHT regarded Foundation Phase as a radical and innovative early years development, they were concerned about funding.

Ms Hutt said in light of discussions with local authorities, she was satisfied additional funding would be required.

She is due to meet representatives of local government, teacher unions, Estyn and year year specialists next Tuesday.

A group will also be established to advise her on the roll out of the programme. She will make a statement on Wednesday setting out detailed proposals, including funding arrangements.

"The action we are taking confirms the importance we attach to successful roll out of the Foundation Phase; and its significance for the future of education provision in Wales."

Gareth Gillingham, secretary of the Newport branch of the NAHT and headteacher of Malpas Park Primary, said: "Hopefully, this is a step in the right direction but obviously one of the things that concerns us is the four year rolling programme and we want the money to be available up-front so schools can carry out the initiatives that were in the pilots.

"If that money isn't forthcoming they unfortunately there will be a watered-down curriculum."