Age for funded childcare entitlement
The date you can start claiming a funded place is set by the Department for Education. All 2 and 3-year-old funding (targeted, universal and working parents') start from the term following your child’s second or third birthday.
| A child born on or between | Can receive funded nursery education from |
|---|---|
| 1 April and 31 August | Autumn Term (September) |
| 1 September and 31 December | Spring Term (January) |
| 1 January and 31 March | Summer Term (April) |
Working parents’ entitlement from 9 months begins the term following your child turning 9 months.
| A child turning 9 months on or between | Can receive funded nursery education from |
|---|---|
| 1 April and 31 August | Autumn Term (September) |
| 1 September and 31 December | Spring Term (January) |
| 1 January and 31 March | Summer Term (April) |
The start and end dates of school holidays has no bearing on the eligibility dates or when funding starts.
Funded childcare ends the term after a child's fifth birthday, or when your child moves into reception class in a maintained school. This is even if you opt for your child to attend reception class part-time.
Types of childcare
Funded places are available at childcare providers who are registered with Ofsted and approved by Bracknell Forest Council to deliver the funded entitlements. Funded places are available from:
- council nursery classes (3 and 4 year olds only)
- independent and academy schools
- private day nurseries
- pre-schools
- childminders
For more information about the types of childcare available, to ask about vacancies, and for guidance on choosing a childcare provider please see the Bracknell Forest Local Directory.
You can also contact the Family Information Service by:
- email: family.information@bracknell-forest.gov.uk
- phone: 01344 353133