We understand that childcare can be expensive, but there may be funding available for your 2 year old, so you can claim up to 15 hours free childcare. From April 2024, the government has said that all 2 year olds will be eligible*.
Is pre-school free?
Pre-School isn’t free like primary school is. However, you may be able to get up to a certain number of hours of funding per week so you can get it free or significantly discounted.
How to get up to 15 free hours for your 2 year old
To find out if you’re currently eligible or to apply, you can contact the Early Years Funding team on 01244 973930 or apply online. For more help, you can Google CWAC 2 year funding.
Find out if you’re eligible
The Early Years worker at your local children’s centre will be able to check your eligibility, or you can check online yourself. You will need to provide your name, date and birth and national insurance number, as well as the name and date of birth of your child.
Once you have completed the online form you will be advised if your child is eligible for a place. If you are eligible, you will see a message on screen. Once you have submitted your form, you receive a unique reference beginning with EY.
What to do next
For eligible families, the next step is to contact a children’s centre in your area to arrange an appointment with an Early Years worker. They can help you find a childcare provider in your area. They will also give you a free bookstart pack and tell you about all the great activities you can access at the centre.
Your child will receive up to 15 hours a week of pre-school fun, so they can play, read, climb, run, dig or do whatever they enjoy most. More importantly, your child is learning with other children.
Funding at Dodleston Pre-School
We currently accept Early Years funding at Dodleston Pre-School.
If you would like to come and have a look around our lovely pre-school and find out more about what we offer, then don’t hesitate to contact us. Please ring 01244 661611/ 07938 465435 or email dodlestonpreschool@googlemail.com
If you need further information, advice or guidance about childcare, free nursery places and benefits available to you, contact the Family Information Service:
- Telephone: 01244 973930 (Monday to Friday 8.30am – 4.30pm)
- Email: EY.Providers@cheshirewestandchester.gov.uk
*Criteria will apply, particularly with regards to the parents’ income. Neither parent can earn more than £100,000 per year.