Early Years Education Grant

The government funds local authorities to ensure a free part-time early education place is available for every three and four year old in settings that have been inspected by Ofsted and found satisfactory in terms of quality in England.

From 1 April 2006 three and four year old children are entitled to free early years education, comprising a minimum 12.5 per week for 38 weeks of the year (Rules may differ according to local authorities). Parents do not contribute towards this minimum entitlement but may be charged fees for any childcare that is additional to the free place.

Eligibility dates

Your child will receive the grant in the term following his/her third birthday:

• Children born between 1 April and 31 August (inclusive) will be eligible to a free place from 1 September following their third birthday.
• Children born between 1 September and 31 December (inclusive) will be eligible to a free place from 1 January following their third birthday.
• Children born between 1 January and 31 March (inclusive) will be eligible to a free place from 1 April following their third birthday.

The childcare provider claims the grant for you. All you have to do is complete a form and produce your child’s birth certificate to the nursery manager.
More information can be found at www.surestart.gov.uk