30 Hours funding

Your 3 year old child will be eligible for 30 hours per week free child care:

  • You, and any partner, must each expect to earn (on average) at least £125 per week (equal to 16 hours at the National Minimum or Living Wage).
  • You, or your partner, are on maternity, paternity or adoption leave, or you're unable to work because you are disabled or have caring responsibilities, you could still be eligible.

Note: You can't get 30 hours free childcare if either you, or your partner, each individually expect to earn £100,000 or more.


When can my child start?

Your child can start in their childcare place the term after they turn 3 years old and have received a valid 30 hours code, whichever is later. Term start dates are 1 st September, 1 st January and 1 st April.

To keep your 30 hours free childcare place you need to check your details are up to date every 3 months.


What is not covered?

The 30 hours free childcare offer is not intended to cover the costs of meals, other consumables (such as nappies or sun cream), additional hours or additional activities (such as trips).