How to secure your government-funded nursery hours

Navigating the world of childcare funding can feel overwhelming, especially for parents of children starting nursery for the first time. Whether you’re planning ahead for when your child turns 2 or 3, or you’re already exploring childcare providers, this simple guide will walk you through how to apply for 15 or 30-hours childcare, who qualifies, and when to apply.

At Grandir UK, we understand how important accessible, high-quality early education and childcare are for working families. That’s why we’re here to break down the application process for claiming your funded hours, so you can feel confident and prepared for this new, exciting journey.

What is government-funded early education, and who qualifies?

To ease the financial strain of childcare costs, the UK government offers funded early education for eligible children.

1. Universal funding – 15 hours for 3 and 4-year-olds

All 3 and 4-year-olds in England are currently entitled to 15 hours of funded childcare per week, this is known as universal funding.

• This starts from the term after their 3rd birthday.
• It’s automatic, no application or code is required.
• Available to all families, regardless of income or working status.
• Can be used during term time or stretched across 51 weeks.
• If you’re not eligible for the working families funding (see below), you can still access these 15 hours.
• If you are eligible for the 30-hour scheme, the 15-hour offer is already included – you do not claim it separately.

2. Funded childcare for working families – up to 30 hours (children aged 9 months to 4 years old)

• As of September 2025, working parents will be able to claim 30 hours of government-funded childcare a week, over 38 weeks of the year, all the way through from 9 months up to their child starting school.
• You can start using the entitlements from the term after you apply. These terms begin on 1 January, 1 April and 1 September.

To qualify, you must:

• Earn the equivalent of 16 hours/week at the national minimum or living wage.
• Have an adjusted net income of less than £100,000 per year.
• Apply via the government’s childcare service and receive a valid eligibility code.
• Reconfirm your eligibility every 3 months to continue receiving support.

3. Supported funding for some 2-year-olds

• Some 2-year-olds may qualify for 15 funded hours if their family receives certain income-related benefits (e.g. Universal Credit, Income Support).
• This is separate from the working families scheme.
• You must apply via your local council and confirm eligibility before securing a place.

When should I apply?

It’s important to apply on time to secure your funded entitlement. You must apply the term before your child turns the relevant age to start claiming in the following term:

Child’s birthday between	Apply by	Funding starts
1 January – 31 March	31 March	1 April
1 April – 31 August	31 August	1 September
1 September – 31 December	31 December	1 January

Important note

You must apply before the relevant deadline and ensure you meet the eligibility criteria in time. While the official deadline is the day before the term starts, it’s recommended to apply at least 6 weeks earlier, and check with your chosen childcare provider, as some may require codes sooner to secure your place.

How to apply for 15/30-hour childcare

1.Create a childcare account via the GOV.UK official site.

2. Submit details like your national insurance number, income, and your child’s date of birth.

3. If eligible, you’ll receive an eligibility code (also known as a childcare code).

4. Share your childcare code with your chosen childcare provider (such as your local Grandir UK nursery).

5. Reconfirm your details every 3 months to keep receiving support.

If you also want to access Tax Free Childcare or are claiming Universal Credit, you can manage everything in the same childcare account.

For additional childcare support, check with your local authority, local council, or Early Years team, who can guide you through eligibility or unique circumstances.

How do funded hours work at Grandir UK nurseries

At Grandir UK, we work closely with families to make the most of your government-funded hours. We offer funded places for 15 hours and 30 hours free childcare, plus flexible options to suit your family’s needs. Whether you’re eligible for fewer hours or the full 30 hours, our team will support you through every step.

While funded early education helps cover your core childcare costs, there will be extra costs for things such as meals, trips, or consumables which we call Everyday Essentials. We’ll always be transparent about these in advance.

Not sure what you’re entitled to or how it affects your monthly fees? Try our nursery fee calculator to get a clearer picture based on your preferred sessions.

Start your journey today

Finding the right Early Years setting and understanding your funded childcare choices shouldn’t be stressful. At Grandir UK, we’re here to support you with personalised advice, a range of sessions, and expert guidance.

Still have questions about childcare funding? Head to our Funding page or contact our Parent Engagement team, who will be happy to help.