Local MP Visits Coppice Valley Primary School to Celebrate New Government-Funded Nursery

Tom Gordon, Liberal Democrat MP for Harrogate and Knaresborough, visited Coppice Valley
Primary School to learn more about its successful bid for Department for Education funding
to build a new on-site nursery.

The funding is part of a national government initiative to increase access to affordable
childcare. Coppice Valley is among the first schools selected in Phase 1 of the programme
and is on track to open its new nursery by autumn 2026.

During the visit, Tom met with the headteacher and staff to learn how the new nursery will
benefit local families, strengthen early years education, and help meet rising demand for
childcare places in the area.

He left the visit impressed by the school’s dedication to both its pupils and the wider
community – from its broad, engaging curriculum and outdoor learning opportunities to its
strong commitment to sustainability, including clothes recycling and solar panels. He
welcomed the news that such an excellent setting will now be able to support even more
children.

While celebrating this investment, Tom also emphasised the need for broader support across
the early years sector. He has previously called on the government to increase funding for
private and voluntary nurseries, which deliver the majority of early years places but are
under significant financial pressure.

Commenting, Tom said:

‘This new nursery is fantastic news for the local community and a real credit to Coppice
Valley, giving more children access to high-quality early years education in a supportive
setting.

‘During my visit, it was clear how dedicated the staff are to their pupils’ development, so it’s
encouraging to see the school being supported to expand its vital work.

‘While I fully support the government’s efforts to increase affordable childcare, it’s crucial that
private and voluntary nurseries, who provide the majority of places, also receive the funding
they desperately need.’