On 7 April 2017, Bridget Phillipson, Labour Member of Parliament for Houghton and Sunderland South, visited Houghton Community Nursery School to learn more about the challenges the school faces in the wake of government cuts to the early years formula.

Speaking after the visit, Bridget Phillipson MP said:

“I was delighted to to visit Houghton Community Nursery School this afternoon and hear about the fantastic work they are doing with local children and the wider community. Thanks to Head Teacher Sarah Dixon-Jones and her team for finding the time to show me around.

“Like 60% of local authority maintained nursery schools, Houghton Community Nursery School is currently rated outstanding by Ofsted.

“It’s clear to me that the school is doing amazing work, but I know that many parents are concerned about the impact of government cuts to the early years formula, which has decreased from £2.79billion in 2010 to a projected £1billion in 2019-20.

“I will keep fighting in Parliament for ministers to give maintained nurseries they funding need to give our children the best possible start in life.”