How to Apply for Full Government-Funded Childcare & Check Eligibility

Beginning 1 September 2025, parents who are working in England will be able to access 30 hours of state-subsidised childcare per week (for eligible families), for children from 9 (nine) months old until school begins. This marks a substantial increase from the previous 15 hours, giving many more families the chance to save on the cost of high-quality childcare.

Last year, roughly half a million households benefited from the 15-hour funded childcare offering, with 93% of parents receiving care with their preferred provider.
For many, this support has helped them increase their working hours, especially those with lower incomes. This childcare initiative not only eases financial pressure—it also helps youngsters develop confidence, social skills, and readiness for formal schooling.

What Government-Funded Schemes Cover

If you’re working at least the equivalent of 16 hours per week at the National Minimum Wage (or above) and your adjusted net income is less than £100K annually, then your child may be eligible for 30 hours/week of fully funded childcare at 4Kidz, from the start of the school term following their 9-month birthday.

All children aged 3 to 4 are eligible for 15 hours per week of government-funded early years education, regardless of their family’s earnings or how many hours they work.

Children aged 2, whose parents are receiving certain additional supports—such as Universal Credit, low income (below a set threshold), an Education, Health and Care Plan, or who have been looked after by a council—may also qualify for the 15-hour offer. Funding for this begins from the term after the child turns 2.

Checking Your Eligibility

Eligibility depends on:

your work status

your income

your child’s age and circumstances

immigration status

There is an online tool (via the government’s “Best Start in Life” parent-support hub) where you can check whether you qualify.

How to apply

Please visit the government website to find out more and apply.

Watch this video from The Department of Education:

When your child can take up their 30 hours

Children who qualify for 30 hours of funded childcare can begin using their hours from the school term following their third birthday. Refer to the table below for the start dates.

30 hours funded childcare start dates

If your child turns 9 months between:	Your child can get 30 hours from:	If you have not already done so, register online and submit your 30 hour eligibility code to 4Kidz Childcare by:
1 April to 31 August	1 September (autumn term)	15 August
1 September to 31 December	1 January (spring term)	15 December
1 January to 31 March	1 April (summer term)	15 March

If you’re ready to give your child a nurturing, creative, and joyful start, consider 4Kidz Childcare—where little ones explore, learn, and grow every day.

👉 Ready to book a visit? Fill out the Famly Enquiry Form and our nursery staff will contact you.

You can also reach us on 01707 817 404 or info@4kidzchildcare.co.uk

17 September 2025
Copyright 4kidz Child Care Blog

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