When do I start getting free childcare?
You can start getting free childcare the term after your child turns 3 years-old. This will depend on when their birthday is:
- 1 January and 31 March can claim from the term beginning on 1 April
- 1 April and 31 August can claim from the term beginning on 1 September
- 1 September and 31 December from the term beginning on 1 January
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The free entitlement is claimed by the pre school or nursery on your behalf. You will just need to complete a form they will provide, authorising them to claim the funding.
Where can I use the free hours?
Free early learning is available at a variety of settings. These include nursery classes in maintained schools, maintained nursery schools, pre-schools, private nursery schools, private nurseries, independent schools and some childminders.
You can access the free childcare in the borough where you live or another borough.
Find pre schools and nurseries
Search the families directory to find nurseries and pre schools.