Children who receive pre-school education have a better chance of doing well at exams and earning higher salaries than those who do not, a new report has found.

The Effective Pre-School, Primary and Secondary (EPPSE) study found that youngsters who received tuition prior to entering the school system will earn around £27,000 more during their professional career than those who do not receive early years education.

Their GCSE results are also expected to be markedly better, gaining the equivalent of seven Bs compared to seven Cs. Moreover, English and maths at this level tends to be notably better for those who benefit from pre-school training.

"Before they have even worn their school uniform for the first time, a child’s life chances are being decided," commented Sam Gyimah, education and childcare minister.

"Early education not only sets a child off on the right foot at school but, as this extensive research shows, has effects that last right into the workplace. No child should start school behind their peers."

Mr Gyimah added that this is why, as part of the government's wider plan for education, they are looking to deliver more flexible, cost-effective and high quality childcare.

Launched in 1997, the EPPSE project is one of the most comprehensive studies of its kind. The conclusions were based on analysis of data gained from following 3,000 children from early childhood to the age of 16.

Kathy Sylva, professor of Educational Psychology at Oxford University, who contributed to the research, said that this study was unique because it delivers important evidence on the "long term value of pre-school".

"The results are clear - early education pays off, and high quality pre-school education gives children the very best start in life," she continued. "High quality early education has enduring benefits for the children who experience it and also the society that invests in it."