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.
Who Gets What?
9 months – 2 years
- 30 funded hours (working parents only)
2 – 3 years
- 30 funded hours (working parents only)
- 15 hours - Early Learning for 2-year-olds
3 – 4 years
- 15 universal hours (all families)
- +15 extended hours (working parents) = 30 total
Working Parent Eligibility
If you are a working parent, you may be entitled to up to 30 hours of government-funded childcare per week, term-time.
This applies from the term after your child turns 9 months old, all the way through to when they start school.
Check eligibility here: https://www.childcarechoices.gov.uk
How We Deliver Funded Hours
At Circadian Nest, families can combine funded hours with paid hours to create a consistent routine of care.
We also offer funded-only places too!
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 Best Start in Life website
- Receive your eligibility code
- Provide us with:
- Your code
- National Insurance number
- Your child’s date of birth
- Your child’s ID
- Sign our Parent Declaration Form
Important:
Working parents must renew their code every 3 months.
