Funded early learning childcare
About funded early learning childcare
There are several different early learning childcare funding offers for children aged 9 month and over. You can use these childcare funded offers at a day nursery, maintained nursery, pre-school playgroup or with a childminder.
Early learning childcare is great for your child and encourages them to:
- learn
- play
- make new friends
- experience new activities
- prepare for their next steps.
It can also help you:
- have more time
- take up training
- with work choices
- meet other parents
- get ideas of how to help your child play and learn.
The Department of Education has shared a frequently asked questions document with the main things parents need to know about early learning childcare.
Steff, from Laurel’s Childcare Company, explains the new Government-funded hours for working families, how to apply, and other information you will need to help you access funded childcare.
Are these funded early learning places totally free?
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.
What should I do if I think I’m being charged for a funded place?
Always speak to your provider first and ask them to explain the charges they are making. If you’re still worried, please email the Families Information Service at fis@derby.gov.uk with the following information:
- what you agreed with the provider in your contract
- what you are being charged - the team may need to see a copy of an invoice
- how many hours a week your child spends with that provider.
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.