From September 2013, 15 hours of free childcare a week will be made available to 2,600 two-year-olds across the county from lower income backgrounds.

The Deputy Prime Minister visited the Busy Bees Nursery, Severalls Park, Colchester today to met parents, staff and children. He said:

High quality early learning can make a huge difference to children at the start of their lives. By getting things right from the off, they are much more likely to be ready when they start school.

I want to make sure no child in Essex loses out, which is why 2,600 two-year-olds in the county will be eligible for free childcare starting this September.

Parents can contact either their local nursery provider or their local council to find out if their two-year-old is eligible. Places will initially go to children from families meeting the eligibility criteria for Free School Meals and those who are looked after by their local council.