DORSET children are set to benefit from government funding which will improve early years education.

More than £600,000 has been pledged to help schools in the South West partner up with local nurseries to offer support, drive up standards and share best pactice.

It is part of a £5m nationwide package.

The government says evidence shows that the early years count. Children from less advantaged backgrounds can start school 19 months behind their peers, but good quality early years education can reduce this gap and have a significant benefit in terms of a child’s development.

Children who benefit from good quality early years can go on to earn around £27,000 more during their career compared to those who don’t, and are also likely to do better at school – the equivalent of 7 GCSE grades at grade ‘B’ compared to grade ‘C’.

Sam Gyimah, Minister for Childcare, said: ‘I’m delighted children in the South West are set to benefit from this innovative scheme, which will help to ensure they receive the very best early years education.

“We know the first few years of a child’s life can be make or break in terms of how well they go on to do at school and beyond – and the sharing of expertise and best practice is vital to driving innovation and raising standards.

“This is a fantastic example of local schools, nurseries and private providers pulling together to improve the fantastic services on offer to families, helping their children to thrive.”

The new scheme will allow local nurseries to work with teachers and school leaders to increase the quality of early years education in their area.