Free Places for Children

All 3yr and 4yr olds are entitled to Free early education.

What is it?

Better known as the Nursery Education Grant, free funded early education places are available for every 3yr and 4 yr old to help give them the best start in life and to prepare them for their school years in accordance with the Early Years Foundation Stage.

All 3yr and 4yr olds are entitled to 5 free sessions per week, a total of 12.5 hours (2.5 hours per session) of free early education during term time. Usually for 38 weeks a year, although some childcare settings only offer this for 33 weeks.

By 2010 the entitlement will rise to 15 hours a week with better flexibility.

Free places information leaflet

How do I claim my free places?

No money or vouchers are passed to you. The funding is paid directly to the childcare provider, who applies for funding for your child. The free sessions are then automatically deducted from any bill you may recieve from them.

Your child can attend any childcare provider that is registered to provide the free funded sessions, as long as they have places available. Providers may include:

Accredited Childminders that are part of a network
Day Nurseries (Private, voluntary or organisation)
Pre-schools and Playgroups
Maintained Nursery schools and classes
Children Centres
Creches

To help you find a childcare provider that can offer free places, please contact Staffordshire Parent Direct on 0845 650 9876 or email parentdirect@staffordshire.gov.uk

Your Questions

Do I need to already be attending the childcare provider?

No. As long as the childcare provider is registered to provide early education and they have places available, your child can attend just for your free places and no more.

Do I need to pay any additional fees to claim my free sessions?

No. If you only attend for your free sessions, you should not be asked to pay anything. If you wish to take up additional services or childcare then you will be charged for the services you use. Any additional services should be charged at their standard rate and NOT at a higher rate.