30 hours free childcare for 3 and 4 year olds
When to apply
The date you can apply depends on your child's birthday. Your child is eligible:
- from the term following their 3rd birthday (see table below) until they reach compulsory school age
- as long as they are not in a Reception class
| Child born between | School term | Term beginning |
|---|---|---|
| 1 April and 31 August | Autumn | On, or after 1 September |
| 1 September and 31 December | Spring | On, or after 1 January |
| 1 January and 31 March | Summer | On, or after 1 April |
Applications for each term will need to be made by the relevant deadline dates:
- Spring term: 31 December
- Summer term: 31 March
- Autumn term: 31 August
Summer term start dates can sometimes fluctuate depending on when Easter falls. The date of birth and dates for applications deadlines do not change.