30 hours free childcare

Eligible 3 and 4 year olds can get up to 30 hours free childcare a week

What is the ‘30 Hours Free Childcare’ scheme?

All 3 and 4-year-olds in England are currently entitled to up to 15 hours a week free childcare for 38 weeks of the year (during school term-times). From September 2017 this entitlement has gone up to 30 hours a week for 38 weeks of the year for some working families.

How do I know if I am entitled to 30 hours free childcare?

In order to receive 30 hours free childcare, you’ll need to be able to answer ‘Yes’ to the following questions:

1. Will my child be aged 3 or 4 when the scheme starts?
2. Are both parent/carers working (or am I as a sole parent/carer, working)?
3. Does each parent/carer earn (on average) the equivalent of 16 hours a week at National Minimum Wage or National Living Wage?
4. Does each parent/carer have an annual income of less than £100,000?
5. Do I live in England?

How do I apply for 30 hours free childcare?

To apply for 30 hours free childcare you’ll need to make an online application to HRMC.

1. Once you’ve completed your application, you’ll be told whether or not you’re eligible for 30 hours free childcare.
2. If you are eligible you will then receive a code.
3. You will need to bring your code into the nursery and give it to the Nursery Manager, along with your National Insurance number.
4. Then all you have to do is wait for the Nursery Manager to check the code is correct, and set up your free childcare hours for you. It’s as simple as that!

As this is a brand new scheme, the information that is currently available can be a little confusing. We’re always available to answer any questions you might have. Pop in to the nursery for a chat about how you can get help with your childcare costs any time.