By Nikki McGregor · 20 May 2025

Big Changes to Funded Childcare from September

At Spring, we are passionate about supporting families and making high quality early years education accessible for all. That’s why we want to make sure you are fully informed about the government’s expanded funded childcare offer coming this September. 

From September 2025, many working families across England will be entitled to up to 30 hours of funded childcare per week for children aged 9 months to school age. This is part of the government’s phased roll out to ease the cost of childcare and help parents balance work and family life. 

What’s Changing? 

If you are a working parent, this could be a game changer. Here’s how the expansion rolls out: 

• Since April 2024:15 hours of funded childcare available for eligible 2 year olds. 

• From September 2024:15 hours extended to children aged 9 months and over. 

• From September 2025: A Full 30 hours per week of funded childcare will be available for children from 9 months to school age. 

These hours are typically available across 38 weeks a year (during term time), however at Spring we will work with you to explore flexible options that suit your family schedule.  

Who’s Eligible? 

To qualify for the 30 funded hours, you must: 

• Be a working parent (including self-employed) 

• Each earning at least £9,518 per year (the equivalent of 16 hours a week at the national minimum wage) 

• Earning less than £100,00 per year per parent 

How to Apply 

Applications are open now through the official Childcare Choices website. 

You will need to apply before 31 August 2025 to start using your funded hours from the September term. After applying, you will receive an eligibility code, bring that code to us and we will handle the rest. 

And remember, you will need to reconfirm your eligibility every three months to continue receiving funding. 

 

Let’s Talk about EYPP

EYPP (Early Years Pupil Premium) is extra government funding given to early years providers to help improve the learning and development of 3-4 year old children whose families meet certain criteria. The funding can go towards things like new learning resources, extra activities or additional support to help your child thrive.

When applying for childcare funding, make sure to tick the box to check if you are eligible for the Early Years Pupil Premium, it only takes a moment but could make a big difference to your child’s early education.

It won’t affect any of your benefits, but it could really benefit your child.

Don’t miss out.

 

If you are based in Scotland, the system is different a little different although still very generous.

What’s Available:

• All 3 and 4 year olds are eligible for up to 1140 hours per year of funded early learning and childcare.
• Eligible 2 year olds may also qualify.
• This estimates to around 30 hours per week during term time, or fewer hours spread across the year.

How to Access:

• Funded hours are delivered by local authority nurseries, partner nurseries (Like us) and childminders.
• You don’t need to apply through a national portal, instead contact your local council to register and allocate you place.

 

You can learn more via the Parent Club website here: We’re here for you | Parent Club

 

What this means for families at Spring 

We know how much of a difference this support can make. The extra funded hours mean: 

• More flexibility for working parents 

• Reduced childcare costs 

• A consistent, nurturing environment for your child during their early years 

As always, we will continue providing a safe, stimulating and inclusive setting for your little ones to learn, play and grow, now with even more support from the government. 

 

Need help applying? 

If you need any help checking your eligibility or completing your application, we are always happy to assist. Contact your local nursery and they will be happy to answer any questions you may have.