Government Funding Early Years
The Government provides funding for early years childcare to help working parents cover the costs of childcare. This funding, known as the Funded Early Education Entitlement (FEEE), can provide up to 30 hours of free childcare per week for 38 weeks of the year for eligible children. The amount of funding and eligibility criteria vary depending on the child’s age and parental circumstances.
Funded Places:
We offer Early Education Entitlement for ALL 3-4 year old children (15 hour Universal funding) the term after their third birthday.
We offer the Extended funding for 3-4 year old children (30 hour funding) the term after their third birthday (the extended funding is eligibility based)
We offer Early Education Entitlement for 2 year old children term after their second birthday. (2 year old funding is eligibility based)
We advise children to attend for a minimum of 2 sessions taken over two days per week. All Invoices are requested termly and are due to be paid.
Key aspects of early years funding:
Eligibility:
Generally, parents need to meet certain working criteria and income thresholds to be eligible for the funding.
Child’s age:
The funding is available for children aged 9 months to 4 years old.
Funding amount:
Up to 30 hours per week of free childcare for children aged 9 months – 4-year-olds from September 2025.
Availability:
Funding is typically available for 38 weeks of the year, coinciding with school terms.
How to apply:
Parents can apply for the funding through the Government’s Childcare Choices website and will receive a unique code to use with their chosen childcare provider.
Where to use the funding:
The funding can be used at registered preschools, nurseries, and childminders.
Important considerations:
Income thresholds:
While the specific income thresholds can change, they generally require a minimum income for working parents to be eligible, according to government guidance.
Application process:
Parents need to apply for the funding code before their child’s first funded term.
Renewing the code:
Parents need to reapply for the funding every three months to maintain their eligibility.
Additional costs:
While the government covers the funded hours, parents may still need to cover costs for consumables, meals, and optional activities, according to Essex County Council.
Funding for specific needs:
Some local authorities offer additional funding for children with special educational needs (SEN).
Support for parents:
Family Information Services and local councils can provide support to parents navigating the funding process.