Parents need quality, affordable childcare in their local area, so that every child can have the best start in life.
Already, the school-based nursery capital grant is making a difference to thousands of families across the country, supporting the childcare expansion.
As part of our plan to create thousands of new places in school-based nurseries, and support families in disadvantaged areas to better access early years provision we have so far awarded £82 million to over 600 primary and maintained nursery schools which will create over 11,000 new nursery places by September 2027.
By the end of September 2026 schools report that approximately 450 new or expanded nurseries will have created over 9000 places.
We are now inviting local authorities to develop multi-year funding proposals to deliver further new or expanded school-based nurseries from 2027–2030, in areas where they are most needed, with the first places available from September 2027.
But what are school-based nurseries and who will benefit? Here’s everything you need to know.
What is a school-based nursery?
A school-based nursery is nursery provision located on a school site. The nursery setting may operate independently from the school or could be run by the school.
Some will offer childcare for ages three and four, whereas others will cater for younger children. This will depend on the individual setting as there are different regulations for schools to follow depending on the age group.
Why are nurseries in schools popular with parents?
Quality school-based nursery provision is popular with parents, especially families with children of different ages. It can mean a single point of contact, easier drop-offs and pick-ups and continuity of care from the beginning of a child’s education.
What are the other benefits of school-based nurseries?
The entire diverse childcare sector provides valuable care, with schools at the heart of our communities. School-based nursery settings see lower staff turnover, serve a greater proportion of children with SEND and are more prevalent in deprived areas.
Teachers have told us the benefits of nurseries on site, saying it helps them build strong relationships between nursery and school staff, which can lead to smoother transitions into school for children.
How many new school-based nurseries are being created?
We are committed to ensuring new nursery places are created where they are most needed, with progress already underway. Over 600 schools have been awarded funding to create or expand nurseries, and they are already offering over 6000 new places in primary schools.
Schools report that by the end of September 2026 approximately 450 new or expanded nurseries will have completed, creating over 9000 places.
Where will the new nurseries be located?
Through the programme, we are expanding school-based nursery provision across every region of England, increasing access to quality childcare places across the country.
How is this being funded?
The government has pledged over £400 million to fund the programme.