Early Years Funding

Early Education & Funding

Funded childcare is provided by the DfE, not the Virtual School. Foster carers and social workers must apply on time.

2-year-olds:
Up to 15 funded hours per week. Code required. Application: Early Learning - 2 yr old Funding Enquiries: haltonfis@halton.gov.uk

3–4-year-olds:
All children receive 15 hours the term after their birthday; extra hours require a '30 hours funding' application.

30 hours funding:
Available from 9 months if Foster Carers meet eligibility criteria and it fits the child’s care plan.

• Local authority approval needed

• Carers must be in paid work (conditions vary for single/two-parent households)

• Apply and reconfirm every 3 months

Application for code: 30 hours childcare for eligible working Foster Carers in England | HBC forms

Reconfirmation: Reconfirmation: 30 hours childcare for eligible working Foster Carers in England | HBC forms

Please note:

• Apply before: 31 March, 31 August, 31 December

• Codes must be in place before the term starts

• Late applications may result in no funding and carers paying fees

• Extras (meals, trips, etc.) are not covered

Further information: Childcare support checker | Best Start in Life