Portsmouth South MP Stephen Morgan has said backed government plans to begin delivering 3,000 nurseries across the country by upgrading spare spaces in primary schools.
From next month, schools including those in Portsmouth will be invited to bid for a share of £15 million capital funding, with capacity in the programme to deliver up to 300 new or expanded nurseries in this first round.
The announcement follows the successful rollout of additional government-funded childcare hours in September 2024.
The September 2025 has significant inherited delivery challenges, which this measure seeks to partly address.
The announcement forms part of Labour’s ambition to create 3,000 new nurseries in primary schools, and long-term plan to modernise early years education and childcare, making it more widely available, accessible, and high quality.
Commenting, Portsmouth South MP Stephen Morgan said:
“From speaking to families in Portsmouth, I know just how big of a financial pressure childcare can be, often costing as much as a mortgage.
“That’s why I’m so pleased to see this Labour government’s ambition to modernise the system, boosting work choices and life chances for children.
“As part of our mission-driven approach to government, we’re breaking down barriers to opportunity at the very earliest stage.”
Bridget Phillipson MP, Secretary of State for Education, said:
“I’m determined to deliver a sea change in the way this country approaches early years education, this is a crucial first step.
“We inherited a childcare pledge without a plan from the Conservatives, but we’re putting our shoulder to the wheel to support hard-pressed parents.
“This is a child-centred government, supporting working families and unlocking opportunity for young people.”
Mr Morgan was appointed the Minister for Early Education in July 2024 following Labour’s general election victory.
The city MP regularly visits local schools and nurseries to speak with parents, children, teachers and school staff and see issues impacting them first-hand.
