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15 hours for all 3 and 4 year olds (universal)

All children are entitled to receive up to 15 hours per week early education and childcare funding from the term after they turn 3. 

This funding finishes at the end of the term before your child starts school or reaches statutory school age whichever comes first.

Please see a number of frequently asked questions below. If you have any further questions, please contact us on 020 8770 6000.


Am I eligible?

All children can access this funding, from the term after they turn 3 years old. The only eligibility criteria is your child's age. 

When can my child start?

Your child can access the funding from the term after they turn 3 years old:

  • If your child was born between 1st April and 31st August, your child can access their place from September.
  • If your child was born between 1st September and 31st December, your child can access their place from January.
  • If your child was born between 1st January and 31st March, your child can access their place from April.

How do I apply?

As this funding is available for all 3 and 4 year olds,  you do not need to apply to the government or local authority first. Please contact your local childcare provider to see if they have a funded place available. You will need to provide evidence of your child's date of birth eg birth certificate or passport. 

What isn't covered by the funding?

The funding is not intended to cover the costs of meals, other consumables (such as nappies or sun cream), additional hours or additional activities (such as trips). Providers may charge a fee for these additions. If you choose to pay for these it is an arrangement between you and the childcare provider. However, you must not be required to pay any fee as a condition of taking up a funded place, and you must be offered alternative options.

You may also be asked to pay a deposit to secure your place. This should be returned to you within a couple of months of your child taking up their place.

Can I get help with paying for additional hours?

If you require additional hours, there are other funding options available to support you with the cost:
  • 30 hours early education and childcare funding for working families
  • Tax Free Childcare for working families
  • Childcare element of Universal Credit and Child Tax Credits
For more information on all childcare funding available, please visit our 'What help is there to pay for childcare' page or the Childcare Choices website. Both linked at the bottom of the page.

I have a question or need more help?

If you have any general questions around the entitlements or how to access a place in Sutton, then please contact the Sutton Family Information Service on 020 8770 6000.

Search for childcare providers who offer the funding (Opens in New Window)

What help is there to pay for childcare?