15 hours of funded childcare and early education for all 3 to 4 year olds

Open to all 3 to 4 year olds regardless of the parents’ income or immigration status. From the term after their third birthday at an Ofsted registered:
  • private day nursery
  • pre-school playgroup
  • childminder
  • or school nursery class the September after your child turns 3.
15 hours for 38 weeks of the year. Some childcare providers may ‘stretch’ the 15 hours across the full year. So that is, fewer hours offered per week over more weeks of the year (e.g. 11 hours each week for 51 weeks).

No need to apply just contact a childcare provider to see if they have a place for your child.
If you are a working family, you may also get an extra 15 hours, see 30 hours free/funded childcare

What isn't covered by free/funded childcare

The funded 15 hours do not cover the costs of:
  • meals or snacks
  • other consumables (such as nappies or sun cream),
  • extra hours or activities (such as trips).
Providers may charge a fee for these. Discuss these costs with your childcare provider before you take up a place.

By September 2025

Most working families with children under the age of 5 will get 30 hours of childcare support. Find out more at www.childcarechoices.gov.uk