James Bowen, director of policy for school and nursery leaders' union NAHT, said: “NAHT has been calling for an increase to hourly funding rates for some time. Today we have seen the detail in the budget and whilst any additional funding is welcome given the current challenges settings are facing, frankly the money announced today is a fraction of what is needed. Our members are also questioning where they will find the additional staff needed for an extension of the current childcare offer. There is a real danger that this could backfire for the government if it is not properly funded.”