TWO Teignbridge primary schools are among seven in Devon to receive funding to increase their capacity for early years provision for children below school age.

All Saints Marsh Church of England Academy in Newton Abbot and Highweek Primary School were successful in bids for expansion.

The Department for Education (DfE) has confirmed each of the schools will receive up to £150,000 to create new early years places in their schools.

Devon County Council supported the schools with their applications for the Schools-Based Nursery Grants.

The schools all meet the DfE’s grant criteria, demonstrating that there is a clear need for more early years places in their local communities; and there are high levels of deprivation in their catchment areas.

Councillor Cheryl Cottle-Hunkin, Devon County Councillor for Winkleigh, said: ‘This is excellent news for Winkleigh and for families across many other parts of Devon.

‘Having high‑quality, local early years provision makes a real difference, particularly in rural areas where access to childcare is limited or, in some cases, non‑existent, and especially for parents and carers who would otherwise have to travel long distances.

‘This investment will help give children the best possible start in life, support families to work or train, and strengthen our local community.

‘I’m delighted the school has secured this funding and proud of the support Devon County Council has provided to help make this happen, and I hope we will see more of this type of investment across more schools in the future.’