We've received numerous questions about the recent changes in childcare funding, so we’re here to provide a comprehensive update to help you navigate these changes.
Funding for Babies and Toddlers (9 months to 3 years)
- Starting September 2024, eligible working parents can apply for 15 hours of childcare funding per week.
- Your child becomes eligible the term after they turn nine months old. For example, to be eligible for September funding, your child must be nine months by August 31st.
- Funded hours commence at the beginning of each term: September, January, and April.
Funding for Two-Year-Olds
- Apply once your child is one year and 36 weeks old, or up to three months before you plan to register them.
- Funded hours start after your child's second or third birthday, depending on their age.
Funding for Three and Four-Year-Olds
- 30 hours of funded childcare for working parents until the child starts school.
Stretch Funding
- Stretch your 38 weeks of funding over more weeks of the year to better manage finances. For instance, spread 15 hours per week over 51 weeks, resulting in approximately 11 funded hours per week.
Booking Patterns and Essential Extras
- Minimum booking pattern of four sessions (either four half days or two full days) to help children settle. Essential extras such as meals, nappies, and extracurricular activities may incur additional fees despite government funding.
Applying for Funding
- Apply a couple of months before you plan to use the hours.
Maternity Leave
- If returning to work post-maternity leave, you must be back by September 30th for September funding eligibility. If you return on October 1st, funding starts from January.
Childcare has become more affordable than ever, and the new funding can save families thousands of pounds a year. For more detailed information, download our guide linked below or speak to our nursery team.
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Негізгі бет Understanding Childcare Funding: What You Need to Know
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