Alistair Strathern, MP for Hitchin, has celebrated Hitchin's Strathmore and Infant Nursery School being part of a new government scheme to expand school-based nurseries. 

Already a school-based nursery, this funding will allow Strathmore to increase its numbers. 

The Government roll out will fund 300 new or expanded school-based nurseries by converting classrooms into top quality early years spaces.

From September, across the country, working parents will get 30 government-funded hours of childcare a week, from 9 months of age right up to starting school - saving parents up to £7,500 a year. 

The first 300 schools will see an average of 20 childcare places per site, with up to 4,000 of these available by September and a further 2,000 later this autumn. Places will be focused in childcare 'deserts', where up until now families have been missing out due to a shortage of places. 

This announcement comes alongside the rollout of breakfast clubs in primary schools, with the first 750 schools set to launch later this month – saving families up to £450 a year. 

Alistair Strathern MP said: "I am thrilled that Strathmore Infant and Nursery School has been given funding as part of Labour's plan to roll out and expand school-based nurseries".

 "I know from speaking to families across my constituency the need for high-quality early-years support that is available nearby and doesn't break the bank". 

"On top of our universal free breakfast clubs, I am glad to see this Government making a big difference for families on childcare."