Thousands of new school nursery places to be rolled out
Up to 7,000 new school nursery places to be created
- The government has announced a new £45 million investment to create up to 7,000 additional school nursery places across England by September 2026.
- This funding will establish a further 300 school-based nurseries, with schools invited to bid for grants of up to £150,000, prioritising disadvantaged communities.
- The investment builds on previous phases that created 4,000 school-based nursery places and coincides with the rollout of 30 hours free childcare for eligible working parents.
- Education Secretary Bridget Phillipson highlighted that school-based nurseries offer a nurturing environment and provide convenience for working parents.
- Despite the expansion, concerns persist regarding workforce shortages in the early years sector, though the government is offering a £4,500 payment to attract teachers to disadvantaged areas.