A new nursery is opening at d'Auvergne School for two and three year olds with additional needs. It's part of a government pilot scheme to improve childcare provision.

From next month, the St Helier primary school, working with the Jersey Child Care Trust, will have space for two and three year olds needing extra support in their early years learning.

Education Minster Rob Ward says it is part of his ambitions to extend the government's nursery offering, and that he is exploring possibilities at two or three other primary schools.

"I’m delighted that we are able to offer this provision to parents and families in the coming weeks. It is the first step, and one of a number of possible options we’re looking at to achieve the universal offer for 2- to 3-year-olds.

“I’d like to thank the Jersey Child Care Trust and the d'Auvergne leadership team for creating this new provision at such pace.”

Education Minister, Deputy Rob Ward

Headteacher of d’Auvergne, Sam Cooper says it makes clear sense to use free space in primary schools to expand our nursery provision.

"We’re very happy to support the pilot in any way we can and look forward to welcoming more children into our wider school community."

Known as Play and Learn at d'Auvergne’, the provision will include a weekly sessions for families to join in with.

Fiona Vacher, Executive Director of Jersey Child Care Trust says the pilot helps to address the lack of available nursery for children which developmental and financial need.

"When the Minister for Education approached us, we knew we had to prioritise creating 'Play and Learn at d'Auvergne' as we want to make sure that every child has access to the nurture, care and learning they need to thrive."