THE number of parents benefitting from free early education and childcare for two-year-olds has seen a complete turn around, new figures show.

Buckinghamshire is first among 11 neighbouring counties for take-up of the Early Education Entitlement, with 84 per cent of eligible families accessing a free place through the scheme.

And it is second in the entire South East, with only Brighton and Hove having a better take-up rate at 88 per cent.

The figures, recently released by the Department for Education (DfE) following a survey, were described as fantastic news by cllr Zahir Mohammed, the County Council’s cabinet member for education and skills.

He said: “I understand we were seen as under-performing in this area two years ago, so it is wonderful how our early years team has turned things around.

“More importantly, it means families and their children are reaping the benefits of this care which can be of real value to their lives.”

Free early education and childcare is available for eligible two year olds for 15 hours a week during school term time at pre-schools, nurseries, school based early years provision and childminders.

The centrally funded scheme is targeted towards children who will benefit the most, with the primary focus being on economic disadvantage – around 40 per cent of parents of two year olds.

The national average for take-up of early education entitlement is 70 per cent but, in September 2014, the rate in Buckinghamshire was just 63 per cent.

Officials say the improvement has been brought about by a number of initiatives such as greater collaboration with partners, additional support available to families in finding a place, increased promotion, and simplifying the application process through an online form.