Overview
- Ministers confirmed a £45 million package to create more than 300 new school-based nurseries, aimed at cutting childcare costs and easing drop‑offs for parents.
- London will see 34 schools receive cash to build or expand nursery places from September, adding capacity in high‑pressure areas.
- Yorkshire and the Humber is set for 40 new nurseries providing about 800 places, with nurseries in parts of Leeds and Rotherham due an extra £363 per child for lower‑income families.
- The programme moves to a locally led model in May, with councils asked to propose where new places should go based on local need.
- Best Start Family Hubs, which combine childcare with family support and health visiting, will be able to host these nurseries to spot needs such as special educational needs earlier.