Apply for OR reconfirm your 30 hours eligibility code to receive 30 hours free childcare.

Free Early Learning / Education

Childcare/early learning/education is good for children’s social, physical and mental development and also helps them to prepare for school – giving your child the best start in life.

See advice for parents of children aged 0-4 years old with special educational needs (SEND).

Changes to childcare support for working parents from April 2024

Working parents: Have you applied for your code?

From April 2024, more working parents will be supported through an expanded free childcare offer.

To get 15 hours of free childcare for your 2-year-old, you need to apply for a code. You should apply for your code before 31 March 2024 to take up a place from April 2024.

'Free childcare if you are working' step-by-step guide (external link).

How to claim free childcare including how to get your code (external link).

Search for childcare providers

From September 2024 (external link)

Up to 15 hours for eligible working families in England with a child between 9 and 23 months old.

From September 2025 (external link)

Up to 30 hours for eligible working families in England with a child from 9 months old up to school age.

Current free childcare and education – apply now

Don't miss out – visit your childcare setting to secure your child's place today.

Free 15 hours for eligible parents of 2-year-olds

Find out how Free for 2s work or how to apply for up to free 15 hours a week.

Watch parents talk about Free for 2s!

Free early education for all 3 and 4-year-olds

Find out when and where your child can use their free place of up to 15 hours a week.

Learn more about te Early Years Pupil Premium and Disability Access Fund (DAF).

Free 30 hours childcare and Tax-Free Childcare for working parents of 3 and 4-year-olds

Find out if you’re eligible for the new government scheme.

Up to 15 hours for eligible working families with a 2-year old.

Find out if you're eligible and apply (external link).

Wraparound childcare

Wraparound childcare is before and after-school childcare for primary school children aged 5-11 years old in England during term time. This includes breakfast clubs and regular after-school provision until 6pm or later.

The care is aimed at helping parents access more childcare and work the hours they want to. It should be available every school day outside of regular school hours.

From September 2024, parents can expect to see an increase in the number of wraparound childcare places available across the country.

Wraparound care eligibility

All parents in England with primary school-aged children will be able to access wraparound care in their local area.

The fees will be set by providers. Parents eligible for Tax-Free Childcare or Universal Credit Childcare will be able to use the support to help pay for wraparound care.