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Family Information Service

Universal Early Education and Childcare for 3 and 4 Year Olds 

All 3 and 4 year olds are eligible for up to 15 hours per week of government funded early education and childcare up to a maximum of 570 hours per year.



Children are eligible the term after their third birthday: children born between - 
1 January and 31 March - eligible from the 1 April (Summer)
1 April and 31 August - eligible from 1 September (Autumn) 
1 September and 31 December - eligible from 1 January (Spring)


Early education and childcare funding can be accessed from a range of providers across the city, including -
  • Childminders
  • Day nurseries
  • Pre-schools
  • Primary school nurseries

Some providers will allow you to ‘stretch’ the 570 hours over 52 weeks, using fewer hours per week. You can also split the time between 2 providers if this helps you.

You do not need to apply.

You need to contact the childcare provider of your choice to secure your place.

For further information or support in finding a childcare provider please call us:

Family Information Service 

01482 318 318



How to Choose a Childcare Provider 

Select here for more information on how to choose a childcare provider.