Thousands of new school nursery places to be created

The government is to create 300 school-based nurseries across England over the next year.

These will offer up to 7,000 additional places, with priority given to disadvantaged communities.

Ministers believe this will make life easier for working parents, helping them cut down on multiple drop-offs and enjoy a smoother morning routine.

“We are determined to give more children the best start in life,” said education secretary Bridget Phillipson.

“School-based nurseries can offer a nurturing and stable environment for children that carries through into primary, and a helping hand for working parents tackling dual drop off.”

Schools can bid for grants of up to £150,000 to either expand existing nursery facilities or create new ones.

Good news for families, says charity

The charity Working Families has welcomed the government announcement, as affordable, quality childcare is “one of the biggest barriers to work”.

“Any expansion in the provision of funded childcare places is good news for families,” said chief executive Jane van Zyl.

“It will help ease the financial pressure many parents face and enable more, particularly mothers, to return to work or increase their hours.”

More parents get free childcare

This latest announcement comes just days after the government's expansion of free childcare.

Working parents of children from nine months to four years old in England can now access 30 hours a week of free childcare during term time.

Ministers believe this could help families save up to £7,500 a year and free up money that can be better spent on quality family time.

A government poll has also found that nearly a third (29%) of parents believe this support will let them increase their work hours. 

The government has also launched a new website - beststartinlife.gov.uk – which brings together information, guidance and support for parents.