If you are trying to work out how much nursery or pre-school could cost, understanding the funded childcare offers is a good place to start. In England, eligible families can access different early years entitlements depending on their child’s age and circumstances.
How many funded hours can my child get?
Eligible working families can receive up to 30 hours a week for 38 weeks of the year from the term after their child turns 9 months until they start school. There is also a universal 15-hour entitlement for eligible 3- and 4-year-olds, plus a 15-hour offer for some 2-year-olds who meet additional eligibility criteria.
When should I apply?
Do not leave it until the last minute. The application timetable depends on when your child turns 9 months and the term in which you want the funded hours to start. The government recommends applying early and contacting your preferred provider as soon as possible because having an eligibility code does not automatically guarantee a place at a particular nursery.
Do all nurseries offer funded places?
No. A setting must be able to offer the relevant funded entitlement and your chosen hours may not match the funded pattern. Ask the nursery or pre-school exactly how it delivers funded hours, whether there are additional charges, and what happens if you need more hours than the funded allocation.
What should parents check?
- Whether the setting accepts your entitlement.
- When funded hours can start.
- How many weeks of the year the setting offers them.
- Whether there are optional extras or additional paid hours.
- Whether there is a place available for your preferred days.
Tip: use EduCompare to shortlist local nurseries and pre-schools, then contact your preferred settings early.