Help Paying for Childcare - WNC

Free Early Education and Childcare for 2 Year-Olds

If you receive financial support you could be eligible for funded childcare for your child when they turn 2. Check the current eligibility criteria on GOV.UK. WNC's online eligibility checker (2 year funding) will give you a reference number to give to a childcare provider.

Early Education and Childcare for 3 and 4 Year-Olds

The government funds up to 15 hours of free childcare. Any hours above this must be paid by the parent or carer.

All 3 and 4 year olds can receive up to 570 hours a year of early education and childcare, often called Universal Entitlement. This is spread across three funding blocks, with a maximum of 15 hours a week. To claim your childcare please speak to your chosen childcare provider who can help.

Working parents may be able to claim additional hours to support with childcare costs. You can claim up to 15 additional hours if you meet the eligibility criteria. This is on top of the 15 hours of Universal Entitlement.

Free Early Education and Childcare for Foster Children 

Foster carers of children aged 3 and 4 may be able to claim 30 hours of childcare, if they meet certain criteria and if it's deemed right for the child. Check eligibility and how to apply for 30 hours childcare for foster carers.

Early Years Pupil Premium (EYPP) 

The early years pupil premium (EYPP) is additional funding available for investment in improving outcomes for children. It is used to improve the facilities, equipment and learning experiences to benefit the growth and development of your child. If you think your child qualifies for the early years pupil premium, please speak to your childcare provider.

Early Years High Needs Funding

High needs funding is intended to provide the most appropriate support package for children and young people (from early years up to age 25) with special educational needs and disabilities in a range of settings, taking account of parental and student choice. If you think your child qualifies for early years high needs funding, please speak to your childcare provider.

Childcare Providers

Parents and carers can access funded childcare places at most OFSTED-registered childcare providers. These include:

• Private day nurseries
• Pre-school playgroups
• Maintained nurseries
• Childminders and childminder agencies
• Independent schools

Details of local childcare providers can be found on the Children and Families Service Finder (FIS).