10 Amsterdam primary schools are to take part in an experiment which will see children as young as 2.5 attending school.

The schools, which have not yet been identified, will combine primary education with a creche and playgroup. How the project is to be financed has not yet been finalised.

Children who do not speak fluent Dutch will get four free sessions at the new combi schools while other children will be entitled to less. Parents will be able to pay to place their children in school for longer periods.

Childcare groups have questioned whether schools have the capacity to take care of and teach such small children.