A nursery is hoping to help toddlers and their parents.
Kids and Co Childcare Services has started classes for children aged between three and five, at Red Hall Primary School, in Darlington.
The scheme offers 20 places to children in the school's foundation unit in a project known as wraparound care.
It is open from 8am to 6pm Monday to Friday for 51 weeks of the year, providing care before, during and after regular school hours.
It is hoped the classes will also be of benefit to parents by enabling them to start work or training courses.
The scheme was set up to work with the school's foundation stage, which was recently graded as outstanding in the school's report by education watchdog Ofsted.
Councillor Chris McEwan, cabinet member for children's services, said: "I am delighted to see this initiative up and running, as it offers excellent facilities for many people in the area."
For details, call Sharon Quincey, on (01325) 388450, or foundation stage manager Marie Robinson, on (01325) 254774.
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