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Nursery Funding

Universal 15 Hours for All 3–4 Year‑Olds

All children aged 3 to 4 years are entitled to 15 funded hours per week, for 38 weeks each year. This universal entitlement applies from the term after their third birthday—no application or earnings criteria required.

Expanded Working‑Parent Entitlement: 30 Hours

From September 2025, eligible working parents can access up to 30 hours per week of funded childcare for children aged 9 months up to school age—including 3‑4 year‑olds.

✅ Who Qualifies?

  • Both parents (or the one applying if single) must:

    • Each work at least 16 hours weekly (minimum earnings threshold)

    • Earn under £100,000 per year 

📆 How It Works

  • Apply/make your case via Childcare Choices (GOV.UK).

  • Use your eligibility code with your nursery from September term start, provided you've applied by 31 August.

  • Reconfirm your code every 3 months to keep access.

For children already receiving the 15-hour entitlement, the system will automatically upgrade to 30 hours, if you still meet eligibility 

📅 Eligibility Start Dates by Birthday

  • Born 1 Jan–31 Mar → Funding starts 1 April

  • Born 1 Apr–31 Aug → Funding starts 1 September

  • Born 1 Sep–31 Dec → Funding starts 1 January 

What’s Included—and What’s Not

  • Cover: up to 30 funded hours weekly over 38 weeks (term time)

  • Extra costs: optional extras (e.g., meals and trips) will be charged.

How to Apply & What to Do

  1. No need to apply for the basic 15 hours at age 3–4—just show birth certificate & sign a form.

  2. For 30 hours funded childcare:

    • Check eligibility via Childcare Choices

    • Apply before 31 August to use hours from September term

    • Receive and share your eligibility code with us

    • Reconfirm your eligibility every three months to maintain access 

📞 Need Help?

  • For 15‑hour entitlement: we handle this once you’re enrolled—just bring your child’s birth certificate & sign a form.

  • For 30‑hour funding: apply via Childcare Choices, send us your code, and we’ll help set the right timetable.

  • Reconfirm your eligibility every 3 months—we’ll send reminders.

📞 Contact us or visit the school office for one-on-one support.