All 3 and 4-year-olds can get 15 hours of free early learning a week until they go into Reception class or reach compulsory school age (the term following their fifth birthday).
Funding is available from the term after your child turns 3.
Born on or between | Terms for eligible funding |
---|---|
1 January to 31 March | Summer term (April onwards) |
1 April to 31 August | Autumn term (September onwards) |
1 September to 31 December | Spring term (January onwards) |
You don’t have to apply for the 15 hours free childcare. Your chosen childcare provider will do it for you. You must complete a termly funding form to be eligible for this funding. Your provider will not be able to claim the funding if you do not complete the funding form by the deadline.
You may have to pay for extra costs like meals, nappies or trips.
You can use your free 15 hours:
Working families can get up to 30 hours free childcare for 3 to 4-year olds.
If you can get 30 hours, you'll receive an eligibility code to give to your chosen provider.