Funded Childcare Entitlement

We are pleased to offer a range of Government-funded childcare places for eligible families. Funding is available from the term after your child reaches the eligible age, provided all application requirements have been met.

Our team is always happy to help answer any questions about funded childcare and guide you through the process.

Funding for Children Aged 9 Months to 2 Years (Working Families)

Eligible working parents may be entitled to up to 30 hours of funded childcare per week from the term after their child turns 9 months old.

To access this funding, parents must apply through their Government Childcare Account and receive an eligibility code before their child can start using their funded hours.

Funding for 2-Year-Olds

There are two types of funding available for 2-year-old children.

Working Family Funding

Eligible working parents of 2-year-olds can claim up to 30 hours of funded childcare per week through the Government’s childcare funding scheme. Parents will need to apply online and provide their eligibility code to the nursery before funding can be claimed.

Funding for Eligible Families (2-Year-Old Offer)

Some 2-year-olds may qualify for funded childcare through the Local Authority if their family meets certain eligibility criteria, such as receiving specific benefits or if the child meets other qualifying circumstances.

In West Sussex, this funding is issued directly by West Sussex County Council. Parents who are eligible will receive confirmation from the Local Authority, which should be shared with the nursery to enable funding to be claimed.

Funding for 3 and 4-Year-Olds

All children in England are entitled to 15 hours of funded early education per week from the term after their 3rd birthday, regardless of family circumstances.

Eligible working parents may also qualify for an additional 15 hours, giving a total of up to 30 funded hours per week during term time.

Applying for Funded Childcare

If you are applying for Working Family Funding (including funding for children aged 9 months to school age), you will need to apply through your Government Childcare Account.

Once approved, you will receive an eligibility code which must be provided to the nursery before your child’s funded place can be confirmed.

Parents and carers are responsible for:

• Applying before the relevant Government deadline.
• Providing the nursery with their eligibility code, National Insurance number (or National Asylum Support Service number where applicable), and their child’s date of birth.
• Reconfirming their eligibility every three months through their Government Childcare Account to ensure funding continues without interruption.

If your child is eligible for the 2-Year-Old Offer through West Sussex County Council, please provide us with your eligibility confirmation as soon as possible so we can arrange your funded place.

If you are unsure what funding you may be entitled to, please speak to a member of our team. We are always happy to help you understand your options and support you through the application process.