All Aboard funding for 3 to 4 year olds
Eligibility criteria
All families are eligible for funded 3 and 4 year old childcare, simply go to a provider of your choice, check their availability and ask to register. You do not need a code to register.
Children aged 3 and 4 years old are entitled to 570 hours of funded early learning childcare per year. This means the equivalent to a maximum of 15 hours per week.
Your child’s place using the funded early learning childcare offers is funded by the Government. However, this Government funding does not cover:
- meals and nappies
- a registration or administration fee
- additional activities, such as trips
- extra hours due to the pattern of attendance.
We recommend that these extras are confirmed in writing before you take up your child’s place and itemised on the invoice your provider gives you. Some providers may let you bring a packed lunch if the cost of their lunch is a barrier to you taking a place.
Getting a place
Have a look at our Childcare Directory to see all the providers offering funded places in your area.
If you have a question or comment regarding finding suitable childcare, please contact us online.
When does an All Aboard funded early learning childcare start?
Your child can start the term after they turn 3 and finish at the end of the term in which they turn 5.
- If your child's birthday falls between 1 January and 31 March, they are eligible in the summer term after their second birthday.
- If your child's birthday falls between 1 April and 31 August, they are eligible in the autumn term after their second birthday.
- If your child's birthday falls between 1 September and 31 December, they are eligible in the spring term after their second birthday.
Why do funded early learning places stop at the age of five?
Legally, the term after your child turns five; they should be in full-time education. In Derby, schools generally take in children in September. The funded early learning places can be paid up until the term your child turns five. Once your child starts school, they will stop being able to take up any funded early learning places.