Free childcare for 3 and 4 year olds was top of MP’s agenda during visit to Corfe Mullen nursery

MP Michael Tomlinson visited Tops Day Nursery in Corfe Mullen to mark National Apprenticeship Week. He was shown around by the founder of the Tops Day Nurseries chain, Cheryl Hadland.

They discussed how the 30-hours free childcare for three and four year olds would support more parents in Dorset to find employment, as well as other issues of concern to nurseries in the area such as business and VAT rates and Government funding.

The MP also met apprentices, who told him about their experience of learning and working in a busy nursery chain.

Mr Tomlinson MP said it was wonderful to see how the nursery is nurturing the children and helping to give them a great start in life.
About the free child care he said, “I was delighted to discuss with Cheryl how it will make it easier for parents to find employment and make work pay.”

Cheryl said, “I was delighted to host Michael at our Corfe Mullen nursery and to show him the great work we do to provide our children with a rich learning environment.

“I was pleased to discuss with Michael the 30-hours free childcare policy that will begin in Dorset in April, as well as other issues private nurseries in the county are facing, such as big increases in business rates and decreases in Government funding.”

The MP confirmed he will be making representations in Parliament to help ensure that every child in Mid Dorset and North Poole is able to access a high quality early education.

“I am very grateful to Michael for raising these issues on our behalf in Parliament,” added Cheryl, “and I look forward to working with him to ensure all young children in Dorset have the best possible life chances.”