Funded early education for 9-23 month olds

Eligible working parents whose children will be aged between 9 and 23 months old on 31 August can now apply to receive 15 hours funded early education starting from September 2024.

Please remember that codes need to be renewed every three months.

Parents who apply before 1 June will need to make sure they renew their code before the offer starting in September.

How do I apply? 

You can apply online at free childcare if you're working (GOV.UK) once you have checked the eligibility criteria for free childcare (GOV.UK).

You’ll need to have the following information to hand before starting the application:

• your national insurance number (or unique taxpayer reference if you are self-employed)
• the date you started or are due to start work
• details of any government support or benefits you receive
• the UK birth certificate reference number (if you have one) for your child.

You may find out if you’re eligible straight away, but it can take up to 7 days.

Once your application has been approved, you’ll be given a code to give to your childcare provider.

Tax Free Childcare

Eligible parents can also access Tax Free Childcare. For further information please visit Childcare Choices website.