15 hrs
Time for Twos
From age 2 for eligible families (means-tested)
Finance & Funding
Making Quality Childcare Accessible
We understand that childcare is a significant investment for your family. The good news is that most families qualify for some form of government support.
From funded hours to tax relief, there are multiple ways to make nursery more affordable. Let us help you navigate your options.
Government Funded Hours
Several funding schemes are available depending on your child's age and family circumstances. Scroll down to learn more about each option.
15 hrs
Universal 15 Hours
From age 3 for ALL families - no eligibility check
30 hrs
30 Hours Extended
From age 3 for working parents
15 hrs
Working Parents 15
From 9 months for working parents (new 2024)
Funding Schemes Explained
Expand each section below to learn about eligibility, hours available, and how to apply.
Who qualifies: Families receiving certain benefits or with a household income under £16,190 per year.
Hours available: 15 hours per week, 38 weeks per year (term-time) or stretched across the year.
How to apply: Check your eligibility and apply through Dudley Council.
This funding helps eligible 2-year-olds access quality early education before the universal entitlement begins at age 3.
Tax-Free Childcare
Get 20% Back on Your Childcare Costs
For every £8 you pay into your Tax-Free Childcare account, the government adds £2 - up to £2,000 per child per year (or £4,000 for disabled children).
This can be used alongside funded hours to cover additional sessions, meals, consumables, and extras. It's available for children up to age 11 (or 17 if disabled).
To qualify, both parents must be working (or single parent working), earning at least National Minimum Wage for 16 hours/week, and neither earning over £100,000 per year.
When Does Funding Start?
Funding starts from the term after your child reaches the qualifying age. Find your child's birthday range below to see when they become eligible.
Your child becomes eligible for funded hours from 1st September following their qualifying birthday.
For example, if your child turns 3 in June, they become eligible for 15/30 hours funding from the following September term.
Additional Support: EYPP
Early Years Pupil Premium
Your child may be eligible for Early Years Pupil Premium (EYPP) if they are in local authority care, have left care through adoption, special guardianship or a child arrangements order, or if your family receives certain benefits.
EYPP provides extra funding to nurseries to support eligible children's development. This might include additional resources, one-to-one support, or specialist interventions.
If you think your child might qualify, please speak to our team. We can help you check eligibility and ensure your child receives all the support they're entitled to.
Helpful Resources
Useful Links:
- Childcare Choices - Government portal for all funding options
- Dudley Council Childcare - Local authority information
- Tax-Free Childcare Calculator - Check your potential savings
Have questions about funding or need help with applications? Our team is here to support you through the process.