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Thrapston Primary School

Funding for 3 and 4 year olds

How many funded hours can my child have?

All 3 and 4-year-olds in England are entitled to 15 hours of funded early education or childcare per week for 38 weeks of the year. 

Working families may be able to get up to 30 hours free childcare, for 3 and 4 year old children. 

To be eligible for the additional 15 hours funding you must meet the following criteria:

  • You, and any partner, must each expect to earn (on average) at least £131 per week (equal to 16 hours at the National Minimum or Living Wage).
  • If you, or your partner, are on maternity, paternity or adoption leave, or you’re unable to work because you are disabled or have caring responsibilities, you could still be eligible.
  • You can’t get 30 hours free childcare if you, or your partner, expect to earn £100,000 or more.

To find out if you are eligible to claim 30 hours, please visit https://www.childcarechoices.gov.uk/ 

When can my child begin their funded hours?

Your child can start in their childcare place the term after they turn 3 years old. Term start dates are 1st September, 1stJanuary and 1st April. Please note that these dates are for general information purposes and are not indicative of the start dates for our Pre-School at Thrapston Primary School.

Do all my funded hours have to be with the same provider?

No, they do not have to be used with the same provider. Approved providers include child-minders, playgroups, pre-schools and day nurseries that are registered and inspected by OFSTED. Parents can choose which provider they would like their child to go to, as long as they have places available.

How does my child join Thrapston Primary School's Nursery?

Please contact lpeet@thrapston.net to register your interest and we will keep you informed of any upcoming admission points.