In England, all 3 and 4 year olds are entitled to 570 hours of early years education and childcare each year. This must be spread over no less than 38 weeks.
Entitlement begins the term after the child turns 3 years old. It ends the term after the child's fifth birthday when they reach compulsory school age.
Parents and carers can choose to stretch entitlement over more than 38 weeks and up to 52 weeks. This means taking fewer hours per week, subject to a maximum of 570 hours a year.
Go to suggested weeks for more information.
During registration, providers must see the child's birth certificate or passport to confirm their age and record this on the parent declaration form.
Children in a state-funded, academy or independent school reception class are not entitled to additional funded hours. This is because universal entitlement is met through reception class provision.
A child who starts using their funded hours later in the year will receive a portion of hours based on the time left in the year.
All 3 and 4 year olds in England can receive the universal entitlement, regardless of the child's or parents' immigration status.
Contact information
Early Years Team
Email: eyst@bracknell-forest.gov.uk