Funding
Government Funding
From 1 September 2025, eligible families can access up to 30 hours of government-funded childcare from the term after their child turns 9 months old, all the way until they start school.
This expansion can save families up to £7,500 per year, per child.
Who Gets What?
9 months – 2 years
- 30 funded hours (working parents only)
2 – 3 years
- 30 funded hours (working parents only)
3 – 4 years
- 15 universal hours (all families)
- +15 extended hours (working parents) = 30 total
Working Parent Eligibility
To receive 30 hours, each parent must:
- Earn at least 16 hrs/week at National Minimum Wage(approx. £195/week or £10,158/year from April 2025)
- Earn less than £100,000/year
If not eligible for 30 hours:
Some 2-year-olds may still receive 15 funded hours if:
- Parents receive certain benefits
- Child has additional needs (EHCP, looked after, etc.)
Check eligibility here: https://www.childcarechoices.gov.uk
How We Deliver Funded Hours
Government funding is provided for 15 or 30 hours per week during term time only (38 weeks).
At Circadian Nest, families can combine funded hours with paid hours to create a consistent routine of care.
We do offer funded-only places, but availability is limited to maintain quality and stability for the children.
Want to secure a funded place?
Spaces are limited to protect our calm, biological environment.
We recommend joining early to avoid disappointment.
Attendance Pattern
We believe consistent attendance supports:
- Emotional security and settling
- Healthy routine and behaviour regulation
- Learning and developmental progress
- Staffing and planning stability
Minimum attendance:
3 half-day sessions OR
2 full-day sessions per week
Need Help?
Funding can be confusing — we’re here to guide you through the process and help you make the most of your entitlement.
Official government website: https://www.childcarechoices.gov.uk
How to Apply for Funding
From 1 September 2025, eligible families can access up to 30 hours of government-funded childcare from the term after their child turns 9 months old, all the way until they start school.
- Apply via Childcare Choices website
- Receive your eligibility code
- Provide us with:
- Your code
- National Insurance number
- Your child’s date of birth
- Sign our Parent Declaration Form
- We claim the funding from the Local Authority and deduct it from your invoice
Important:
Working parents must renew their code every 3 months.
