Who gets 15 hours of free childcare and how do I apply?

As of September 2017, all 3 and 4-year-old children in the UK are entitled to 15 hours of free childcare per week. Some 2-year-olds are also eligible for this funding.

To qualify for the free childcare, the child must be aged 3 or 4 years old by August 31st and must live in England. The child’s parent or guardian must also meet certain criteria to be eligible for the funding.

To apply for the free childcare, parents can speak to their child’s current early education provider or contact their local council for more information. Parents may need to provide proof of their child’s age and their own eligibility for the funding.

Once approved, parents can choose from a range of approved childcare providers, including nurseries, playgroups, and childminders. The free hours can be used during term time or spread out over the entire year.

Overall, the 15 hours of free childcare aim to support families and ensure that all children have access to high-quality early education, regardless of their background or financial situation.