Education Minister Daryll Matthew has praised the outgoing Board of Directors of the Sir Luther Wynter Pre-School for its years of voluntary service as the institution prepares to transition into the government’s early childhood education system.

Matthew recently met with members of the outgoing board and senior Ministry of Education officials at his office, where discussions focused on the transition and the future of the long-standing pre-school.

Cabinet approved the move in June 2026 as part of the government’s plans to expand its network of early childhood education centres.

The Sir Luther Wynter Pre-School was founded more than 50 years ago by the late Dean Idris Bird and currently serves more than 40 students. The institution has also been recognised as a UNESCO model school and serves as a teaching-practice site for early childhood education students at The University of the West Indies Global Campus.

Matthew thanked board members for the time and effort they have invested in the institution, saying their contribution has helped provide generations of children with a strong foundation.

“On behalf of the Government of Antigua and Barbuda, I want to express our sincere gratitude to this Board for its years of dedicated service,” Matthew said.

He said the government intends to preserve the qualities that have made the institution successful while building on its achievements as it becomes part of the expanded public early childhood network.

The Ministry of Education said the transition is part of a wider push to improve access to quality early childhood education across Antigua and Barbuda. New early childhood centres are also planned for the Judges Hill and Jennings communities.

Parents, staff and the wider community have been assured that maintaining continuity of care and the quality of instruction will remain priorities throughout the transition.

The outgoing board members have also been invited to remain involved with the Sir Luther Wynter Pre-School in an advisory capacity as the transition moves forward.