Mary Macleod has welcomed the news that, from this week, the Government has extended the entitlement of 15 hours of free early education to the 40% of most disadvantaged two year olds.

Already 116,000 two-year olds benefit from this free childcare and this week’s announcement extends this eligibility to more than 260,000 children, including 1,600 in Hounslow.

This builds on the entitlement of 15 free hours a week already available to all three- and four-year-olds. Alongside this the Government now meets up to 70% of childcare costs for low- and middle-income families through tax credits and 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.

Mary, who has also recently been campaigning for more primary school places locally, said:

“Children from disadvantaged backgrounds currently start primary school up to 19 months behind their peers. In 21st century Britain this is unacceptable. It is great news that the Government has recognised this and is extending 15 hours a week of free provision to the most disadvantaged two years olds. This will help provide 1,600 children in Hounslow with the very best start in life so that they can go on to fulfil their potential.”