Responding as the government announces details of how primary schools can access funding as part of plans for 3,000 new school-based nurseries, Paul Whiteman, general secretary of the school leader’ union, NAHT said: 

“School-based nurseries play a vital role in the early years sector. It makes sense that where there is spare capacity in schools and demand in the local area, that the government looks to expand school-based provision.

"It will be important that interested schools are well supported through this process, both practically and financially, and that the government continues to focus on building a strong and sustainable early years workforce.

"We would encourage schools that are ready to expand or open a nursery to apply for this grant, and for those who may be interested in future to register their interest with the DfE.”