A new Early Years Learning Unit at Stepaside CP School has been officially opened by Welsh Assembly Minister for Education and Lifelong Learning, Jane Davidson.

The £300,000 facility has a colourful nursery and outdoor play area for up to 24 children, together with a Community Learning Room.

"This building will be a wonderful asset for the whole community," said headteacher Peter Griffiths. "It provides excellent facilities for the very young and an attractive base for adult learning."

The unit was funded by £250,000 from the Welsh Assembly Government and £50,000 from Pembrokeshire County Council.

Clr. Maurice Hughes, leader of Pembrokeshire County Council, said: "It gives me great pleasure to congratulate everyone involved in this wonderful achievement. I have no doubt that this unit will make an enormous difference to the school and indeed the whole local community."

The nursery provides part-time education for three-year-old children as well as a playgroup which provides wrap-around care for busy working parents.

Meanwhile, the Community Learning room can be used by the school's Parents Association, Community Education classes, Secondary School Homework Clubs and other community groups.

Ms Davidson, Minister for Education and Lifelong Learning, said: "I am extremely pleased that the Assembly Government's initiative to create Community Learning places across Wales is being realised in Stepaside.

"Together we can build a vision of a learning country for Wales; we can provide the right sort of play opportunities; and make sure they are available for all our children, including the very youngest."