Explore Childcare Funding

In England, all 3- and 4-year-olds are entitled to 15 hours of free childcare per week for 38 weeks each year. This funding begins the term after your child’s third birthday and helps cover part-time nursery or preschool places. Additionally, eligible 2-year-olds may also qualify for this funded childcare provision if they meet certain criteria depending on family circumstances, such as receiving specific benefits or having a child with additional needs.

Eligible working families in England can access up to 30 hours of free childcare for 38 weeks per year. This support is available for children aged 9 months to 4 years, helping you balance work commitments while your child enjoys a fun, engaging learning environment.

You may be eligible if:

• You (and your partner, if applicable) each earn at least the equivalent of 16 hours per week at the National Minimum Wage
• Your annual income is below £100,000 per parent

Working parents in Wales with children aged 3 to 4 years old may be eligible for 30 hours of funded childcare per week for 48 weeks a year. Combining early-years education with funded childcare hours, this support gives your child enriching experiences while helping you manage the demands of work and family life.

You may be eligible if:

• Each parent is working at least 16 hours a week at the National Minimum Wage
• Your combined income is a maximum of £100,000 per year

Families living in designated Flying Start areas can access free childcare for children aged 2 to 3 years for up to 12.5 hours per week, 39 weeks a year. Flying Start also provides additional support such as health visitor access and parenting advice, helping you to make sure your child gets the best possible start in life.

This government scheme helps working families save up to 20% on childcare costs for children aged 11 or under. For every £8 you pay into your online childcare account, the government adds £2, up to £2,000 per year per child (or £4,000 for children with disabilities).

You can use Tax-Free Childcare to pay for:

• Nursery and preschool fees
• Wraparound childcare
• Holiday clubs and sports camps

If you receive Universal Credit, you may be able to claim back up to 85% of your childcare costs for children up to the age of 16.

You can use Universal Credit Childcare Support within registered childcare providers, including:

• Nurseries and preschools
• Breakfast and after-school clubs
• Childminders
• Nannies
• Certain holiday clubs