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The benefits of funded early learning and childcare for 2 to 5-year-olds.
Early learning and childcare combines education and care for children under school age.
If you are the parent of a 2-year-old and are in receipt of certain benefits you could qualify for up to 1,140 hours of funded early learning and childcare.
Eligibility is based on parents who receive one of the following:
Or a 2-year-old who is:
You should only apply if:
You can also request a paper application:
Email: earlyyearssupport@dumgal.gov.uk
Telephone: 030 33 33 3000
Once we receive your completed application form and additional evidence (if applicable), we will write to you within 21 days to confirm that you are eligible.
If you do not hear from us within 21 days, you can email us and we will check that your application has been received.
You then need to choose an early learning and childcare provider.
You should then contact them to enrol your child. They will complete all the enrolment forms with you. You will need:
If your provider of choice is full, they can place you on a waiting list, or you can choose another provider.
Your start date will be detailed on the eligibility letter. It is based on the date of your child's 2nd birthday.
Looked after children can start on the day they turn 2-years-old.
Date of child's 2nd birthday | Start date for funded hours |
---|---|
1 March to 31 August | August (autumn term) occurring in that year |
1 September to 31 December | January (spring term) following their birthday |
1 January to last day of February | March/April (summer term) following their birthday |