New Funding for 2 year olds
With the new 2 year-old funding commencing in April this year, there are many questions being asked from who gets it? how to apply? and what does it cover? In this blog we hope to answer some of your most commonly asked questions around the Government funding.
When can I apply?
Working parents in England can start applying for 15 hours of funded childcare for their two-year-old from 2 January.
What is it?
The plans, first announced in the 2023 Spring Budget, are being introduced to help with the high costs of childcare. If you’re eligible, you’ll get 15 hours of funded childcare the term after your child turns 2 years old. The funding won’t cover meals or extras such as nappies or sunscreen and only covers term time so year round providers may ‘stretch’ the funding over the full year and charge for additional hours.
When will it start?
From April, working parents of two-year-olds will get 15 hours per week during term time, with children from nine months included from September.
Do you have spaces?
We are hoping to expand our 2-year old provision to accommodate the demand for places. We have limited availability currently.
What if I am an existing customer of First Steps?
If you are eligible then apply for a code using the link below and give it to Lauren, Chantelle or Chloe and we will do the rest. Once the funding kicks in, you will receive a discounted bill from us.
Will I still need to pay something?
As the funding only covers term time, there will be the remaining weeks of the year to pay for. We have not received the actual funding per hour figures yet from BCP so do not know how much of your Nursery fees the funding will cover. We anticipate there will be a small additional fee to pay to cover things like nappies and food which we supply. As soon as we know, we will communicate the charges and fees to you all.
Are we eligible?
Yes if your child is 2 years old or will turn 2 years old before 1 April 2024.
Yes if you earn at least £8,670 a year and less than £100,000 a year adjusted net income, which is your income after some tax relief and deductions.
How do I apply?
To claim your 15 hours of funded childcare, you will need to apply on the Childcare Choices website. You will get a code to give to us. Here is the link to apply
Apply for free childcare if you're working - GOV.UK (www.gov.uk)
Contact us today and book a visit to view our two-year old provision at First Steps Nursery in Poole.