Every child can have 15 hours per week free childcare from the term after their third birthday for 38 weeks of the year. The funding starts from the term following your child’s 3rd birthday:
| A child born in… | Can access their free place from… |
|---|---|
| 1st April to 31st August | Autumn school term (September) |
| 1st September to 31st December | Spring school term (January) |
| 1st January to 31st March | Summer school term (April) |
Your child’s free childcare place gives them a great start in life. It can give your child the chance to make new friends and they can explore and learn in a safe environment which has activities built around their needs.
Your child can get their free place at schools, day nurseries, childminders or pre-schools.
To find where your child can get their free place contact the Families Information Service on freephone 0800 0730230.