Families can access the 30 funded hours starting from the term after their child’s third birthday. This extended childcare provision offers significant advantages, including enhanced social skills, exposure to a variety of learning experiences through play, and better preparation for the transition to formal education. By attending nursery for more days, children benefit from a structured environment that promotes their overall readiness for school, fostering key developmental skills and boosting their confidence.

To qualify for the 30 Hours Free Childcare, parents (and partners, if applicable) must be working and meet the following criteria:

• Employment and Income: Parents must earn at least the equivalent of 16 hours at the National Minimum or Living Wage over the next three months. There is an income cap; families where one parent or their partner earns £100,000 or more are not eligible.
• Age of the Child: The child must be 3 or 4 years old. Applications can be made during the term before the child’s third birthday.
• Residency and Nationality: The offer is available to working families living in England. Non-EEA national parents must have recourse to public funds to be eligible.