What is free early education and childcare?

The government funds up to 570 hours of free childcare per year for eligible 2 year olds. This works out as 15 hours a week if your child takes up the childcare during term time, or you could take fewer hours over more weeks in the year.

All eligible two year olds are able to take a place the term after their birthday

Is it really free?

Yes and what's more it's worth almost £3,000 per year!

The childcare setting claims the money from the council for these hours so you don’t have to pay for them.

In some childcare settings it is possible to pay for additional childcare if you need to.

Is my child eligible?

If your child is two you are eligible if you are claiming any one of the following:

• Income Support
• Income-based Jobseeker’s Allowance
• Income related Employment and Support Allowance
• Support under part VI of the Immigration and Asylum Act 1999
• The Guaranteed element of State Pension Credit
• Child Tax Credit with earnings from employment below £16,190
• Working Tax Credit with earnings from employment are below £16,190
• Universal Credit - if you and your partner are on a low income from work (this usually means a combined income of less than £15,400 a year after tax)

Or if your child:

• is a looked after child
• has left care - a child who has left care through a child arrangement order (formerly known as special guardianship) or an adoption or residence order
• has special educational needs, and/or disabilities - but only if he/she has a current SEN statement or an Education, Health and Care plan or receives Disability Living Allowance.