Gosport MP Caroline Dinenage has welcomed the news that from this week, the Government has extended the entitlement of 15 hours of free early education to the 40 per cent of most disadvantaged two-year-olds.
At present, 116,000 two-year-olds benefit from this initiative and from this week, eligibility will be extended to encompass over 260,000 children, including 4,000 two-year-olds in Hampshire. The Government already offers 15 hours of free early education per week to all three- and four-year-olds.
Speaking in support of the news, Caroline said:
"Giving children an equal start in life and ensuring that they are ready for school is hugely important. That is why I am pleased that this Government has expressed its commitment to giving the most disadvantaged two-year-olds 15 hours of free early education.
This will help to ensure that all children are able to reach their full potential, regardless of their background."
Alongside this, the Government now meets up to 70 per cent of childcare costs for low and middle income families through tax credits. It is introducing tax-free childcare from autumn 2015 which will see all eligible families receive up to £2,000 towards each child's childcare costs.