3 and 4-year-olds: 15 hours free early education and childcare for every child

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All three and four year old children who live in England are entitled to free 15 hours early education and childcare (570 hours in total per academic year).   

The 15 hours are usually taken 38 weeks per year (term time) for at least 3 hours, 5 days per week. However, these hours can be claimed flexibly over 2 days per week at childcare providers who open 45 weeks or more per year if they are able to accommodate this.  

 

Who is eligible?

All three and four year old children who live in England.  

How can I apply?

You do not need to apply for the universal entitlement, your childcare provider will do this for you.  

You will need to show a copy of your child’s birth certificate and you will be asked to sign a declaration form. 

When can my child access these free hours?

Your child birthday falls between:

> 1 September to 31 December > Eligibility starts in January 
> 1 January to 31 March > Eligibility starts in April 
> 1 April to 31 August > Eligibility starts in September 

Can my child claim these hours at any childcare provider?

The universal entitlement can used at: settings that are registered to accept these hours, such as: 

  • nursery classes in primary schools 
  • private nursery schools 
  • private or voluntary pre-schools or playgroups 
  • private or voluntary day nurseries 
  • nursery units of independent schools 
  • childminders 

Not all childcare providers are registered to accept the 15 hours.

On the following link you can find a list of Westminster providers that offer funded places.

Other important information

These free hours don’t include the cost of meals, additional hours, trips, activities, nappies or other consumables. Please speak to your childcare provider for further information on any additional costs.

Contact the Westminster Family Information Service

If you require further information or advice about this, please do contact the Family Information Service:

By email: Bi-boroughChildCareEarlyEd@rbkc.gov.ukOr by phone: 07971 625922 

Related Advice

  1. 30 hours early education and childcare for three and four-year-olds
  2. Help with childcare costs
  3. Tax-Free Childcare – information for parents and carers
  4. Choosing childcare

Page last reviewed: 15/03/2024

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