Admissions

Free Early Education funding for eligible children aged 9 months to 4 years,  for qualifying families.

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Overview of Funding

Government provides Free Early Education (FEE) for eligible children in the following age groups:

• 9 months to 2 years: Eligible children can receive up to 30 hours of free childcare per week (over 38 weeks per year).

• 2 years old: Eligible families can access 15 hours of free childcare per week (over 38 weeks per year). This funding is primarily for low-income families, and eligibility checks must be conducted by the local authority. 

• 3 and 4 years old: You can get 15 funded hours from the term after your child’s 3rd birthday, starting on 1 January, 1 April or 1 September. All children in this age group are entitled to 15 hours of free early education per week ( 38 weeks).

• Additionally, working families may qualify for 30 hours of free childcare per week, which includes the universal 15 hours plus an additional 15 hours (also only over 38 weeks per year).

Eligibility Criteria

• For 2-Year-Old Funding: Families must meet specific criteria, including low income or receiving certain benefits. Parents can contact the Barnet Funding Team at 020 8359 3052 for eligibility checks. or check on Childcare & Early Years Education - Best Start in Life website.

Application Process

Parents can apply for the 30-hour funding through the Childcare & Early Years Education - Best Start in Life website. If eligible, they will receive an 11-digit code to provide to their childcare provider. It is essential for parents to renew their entitlement termly to maintain funding. ​​​