School-based Nursery Capital Grants Debate

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Department: Department for International Development

School-based Nursery Capital Grants

Dave Robertson Excerpts
Wednesday 2nd April 2025

(2 days, 20 hours ago)

Commons Chamber
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Bridget Phillipson Portrait Bridget Phillipson
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I agree with my hon. Friend. I have seen for myself the impact that this policy has, particularly for parents who already have older children at school. It eases the transition from nursery to reception and sets up children to succeed. Importantly, it allows staff to build relationships with parents and families, and to identify whether problems are developing in areas such as SEND, where the earlier we spot problems, the earlier we can intervene and put in place the support that is required.

Dave Robertson Portrait Dave Robertson (Lichfield) (Lab)
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I thank the Secretary of State for her statement, because this is an investment in early years, which is an investment in the future of our communities. In my constituency, there is an investment of hundreds of thousands of pounds at Springhill primary academy in Burntwood, Boney Hay primary academy in Burntwood and St Stephen’s primary in Fradley. These schools do amazing work in supporting the next generation, and this money will be used to renovate facilities, give children a better environment in which to start their learning, expand the number of places and help provide the 30 hours of free childcare that working parents so desperately need. Can I put on record my thanks to these schools, and can I ask if the Secretary of State will join me in visiting schools and celebrating the work they do?

Nusrat Ghani Portrait Madam Deputy Speaker (Ms Nusrat Ghani)
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Just say yes, Secretary of State. [Laughter.]