EAST Worlington Primary School and Nursery is now offering nursery provision for children as young as nine months old, in what is thought to be the first such facility in Devon.

The nursery at the school had previously cared for children aged between two and four.

The school decided to extend this to nine-month-old babies after the previous Conservative government unveiled plans to provide free childcare to more families for longer.

Currently, working parents can get 15 hours of free childcare a week for their children from nine months of age and 30 hours when they are three and four.

From September this year, parents will be able to get 30 hours of free weekly childcare for children from nine months old up to school age.

“Early Worlies Nursery” was officially opened on Wednesday, February 12, with tours given of two classrooms the school has renovated for the nursery with funding from the Department for Education and Devon County Council.

The new facility features age-appropriate toys, different creative stations, a reading area, sleep space, covered outdoor play area and even guinea pigs.

“Our mission is to provide the highest quality care and early education to children in our community,” a spokesperson for East Worlington Primary School said.

“By starting at nine months, we are able to work with children in their most formative years, guiding them through a well-rounded learning experience that fosters their growth and prepares them for future success.

“We are thrilled to be part of this wonderful community and to offer families a reliable, enriching option for their children's care and early education.”

The rural school has 40 pupils and 19 children in its nursery.

Local families are invited to book a tour of the new facility. Enrolment options are flexible with full- and part-time care and holiday sessions available.