Ministers have revealed plans for over 300 newly established or upgraded school-based nurseries, increasing the availability of childcare spots starting in September. Labour leader Keir Starmer praised this initiative as a significant change benefiting families managing work responsibilities. The initial phase of 300 new school-based nurseries was introduced last April.
Today, the government announced that 331 schools have secured funding from a £45 million allocation to construct or extend nurseries on their premises. This move, supported by the Department for Education (DfE), aims to provide an additional 6,000 childcare slots for children across various regions from St Ives to Gateshead.
In line with Labour’s 2024 election manifesto, a commitment was made to establish 3,000 more nurseries by repurposing space in primary schools nationwide. Since September of the previous year, working parents with children over nine months old have been eligible for 30 hours of subsidized childcare weekly. The introduction of new school-based nurseries will further enhance the accessibility of childcare options for families.
Keir Starmer commented, “Being a parent, I understand the challenges of balancing work and family life, especially during the early stages when time is limited and rest is scarce.” He emphasized the positive impact of school-based nurseries in supporting families and highlighted the benefits of the additional 300 nurseries in reducing childcare expenses, streamlining the school commute, and assisting parents during financial strains.
Education Secretary Bridget Phillipson stated, “Our school-based nurseries are already bridging the childcare gap in areas where it is most needed, ensuring children receive a strong foundation and enabling parents to access childcare conveniently.”
For the full list of the 331 new school-based nurseries, please refer below.
