15 Hours Free Childcare
2 Year Olds
Am I eligible?
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To be able to take up 15 hours of free early education for your two-year-old you must meet the eligibility criteria. Please visit GOV.UK- external link for further information.
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Where can I use it?
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It's available at participating:
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Full day care (e.g nurseries)
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Schools
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Childminders
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Sessional providers (e.g. playgroups)
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Sure Start Children's Centres
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From 1 January, 1 April or 1 September following your child’s 2nd birthday.
3 & 4 Year Olds
Am I eligible?
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15 hours of free childcare is available for all families in England.
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Where can I use it?
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It's available at participating:
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Full day care (e.g nurseries)
-
Schools
-
Childminders
-
Sessional providers (e.g. playgroups)
-
Sure Start Children's Centres
-
After school clubs
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From 1 January, 1 April or 1 September following your child’s 2nd birthday.
30 Hours Childcare
3 & 4 Year Olds
Am I eligible?
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You, and any partner, must each expect to earn (on average) at least £139 per week (equal to 16 hours at the National Minimum or Living Wage).
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If you, or your partner, are on maternity, paternity or adoption leave, or you're unable to work because you are disabled or have caring responsibilities, you could still be eligible.
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You can't get 30 hours free childcare if either you, or your partner, each individually expect to earn £100,000 or more.
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When can my child start?
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Your child can start in their childcare place the term after they turn 3 years old and have received a valid 30 hours code, whichever is later. Term start dates are 1st September, 1st January and 1st April.
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To keep your 30 hours free childcare place you need to check your details are up to date every 3 months.
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Where can I use it?
​
It's available at participating:
-
Full day care (e.g nurseries)
-
Schools
-
Childminders
-
Sessional providers (e.g. playgroups)
-
Sure Start Children's Centres
-
After school clubs
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Please view the step by step guide on how to use 30 hours free childcare
