Introduction

Understanding the various childcare funding options available can significantly ease the financial burden for families. At The Ark at Tresillian, we aim to support parents by providing clear information on the funding avenues you may be eligible for, ensuring that quality early years education is accessible to all.

1. Universal 15 Hours Free Childcare for 3 and 4-Year-Olds

All children aged 3 and 4 in England are entitled to 15 hours of free childcare per week during term time, totaling 570 hours per year. This universal entitlement begins the term after your child turns three and continues until they start compulsory education.

• Eligibility:

  • Available to all families, regardless of income or employment status.
  • Starts from the term following your child's third birthday.

• How to Apply:

  • Contact us at The Ark at Tresillian to discuss availability and arrange a place for your child.
  • Provide your child's birth certificate to confirm their age.

2. Extended 30 Hours Free Childcare for Working Parents

Working parents may be eligible for an additional 15 hours of free childcare per week, bringing the total to 30 hours. This is designed to support working families with the cost of childcare.

• Eligibility Criteria:

  • Both parents (or the sole parent in a single-parent household) must be working and earning at least the equivalent of 16 hours per week at the National Minimum Wage.
  • Each parent must have an annual income of less than £100,000.

• How to Apply:

  • Apply through the Childcare Choices website to receive an eligibility code.
  • Provide this code, along with your National Insurance number and your child's date of birth, to The Ark at Tresillian.
  • Remember to reconfirm your eligibility every three months to continue receiving the extended hours.

3. 15 Hours Free Childcare for Disadvantaged 2-Year-Olds

Some 2-year-olds are eligible for 15 hours of free childcare per week if certain criteria are met.

• Eligibility Criteria:

  • Families receiving specific benefits, such as Income Support, Universal Credit, or Tax Credits with an annual income below a certain threshold.
  • Children with additional needs or those who are looked after by the local authority.

• How to Apply:

  • Check your eligibility on the GOV.UK website.
  • If eligible, contact us to discuss available places and provide the necessary documentation.

4. Tax-Free Childcare Scheme

The Tax-Free Childcare scheme offers working parents a 20% contribution towards their childcare costs, up to £2,000 per child per year (or £4,000 for a child with a disability).

• Eligibility Criteria:

  • Both parents must be working (or the sole parent in a single-parent household), each earning at least £152 per week but less than £100,000 per year.

• How It Works:

  • For every £8 you pay into your online childcare account, the government adds £2.
  • Funds can be used to pay for childcare at The Ark at Tresillian.

• How to Apply:

  • Set up an account through the Childcare Choices website.
  • Pay into this account and use the funds to cover childcare fees.

5. Support for Parents in Education or Training

If you are studying or undergoing training, there are specific support options available to assist with childcare costs.

• Care to Learn:

  • Provides financial support for parents under 20 years old who are in education.
  • Covers childcare costs up to £160 per child per week.
  • More information is available on the GOV.UK website.

• Learner Support:

  • Available for parents over 20 years old in further education.
  • Assistance is provided based on individual circumstances.
  • Contact your educational institution for application details.

6. Additional Support for Children with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND)

Families with children who have SEND may be eligible for extra funding to support their childcare needs.

• Disability Access Fund (DAF):

  • Provides a one-off payment of £800 per year to childcare providers for each eligible child.
  • To qualify, the child must be aged 3 or 4, receive Disability Living Allowance (DLA), and attend a registered childcare setting.

• How to Apply:

  • Inform us if your child receives DLA so we can apply for the funding on your behalf.

Conclusion

Navigating childcare funding options can be complex, but understanding the available support can make a significant difference. At The Ark at Tresillian, we are committed to assisting you in accessing the funding you're entitled to, ensuring your child receives high-quality early education without undue financial strain.

For personalised guidance or to discuss your eligibility, please contact us directly. We're here to help you every step of the way.

Note: Eligibility criteria and funding amounts are subject to change. For the most current information, please visit the Childcare Choices website or contact your local authority.