Childcare funding in England has changed several times in recent years. This guide explains the main schemes in plain English so you can work out what applies to you.
The main schemes
Universal 15 hours for 3 and 4 year olds
Every 3 and 4 year old in England is entitled to 15 hours of funded early education per week over 38 weeks of the year, regardless of household income. Funding starts the term after your child's third birthday.
Extended 30 hours for working families
If both parents (or the sole parent) are working and each earns at least the equivalent of 16 hours a week at National Living Wage, and under £100,000 a year, you may qualify for an additional 15 hours.
Funding for younger children
Support for eligible working parents of children from nine months old has been rolling out in stages. Check your eligibility on the Childcare Choices website, as dates and hours have changed.
How to apply
- Create a childcare account at childcarechoices.gov.uk
- Receive your eligibility code and note the reconfirmation date
- Give the code, your National Insurance number and your child's date of birth to your nursery
- Reconfirm your details every three months to keep the funding running
Funded hours cover early education only. Meals, nappies and consumables are usually charged separately — always ask your setting for a written breakdown before you commit.
Our nursery team is happy to walk you through the paperwork. Bring your code along to a tour and we'll check everything with you in person.