Understanding Childcare Funding Options at Brown Bears Nursery
Introduction
Navigating the various childcare funding options available can be challenging for parents. At Brown Bears Nursery, we aim to support families by providing clear information about the funding opportunities that can help make quality early education more accessible. In this blog, we will outline the key funding options available to parents in the UK and how they can be utilised at our nursery.
1. Free Early Education Entitlement (FEEE)
The UK government offers free early education to all three and four-year-old children, and in some cases, to eligible two-year-olds. This entitlement provides up to 15 hours of free childcare per week for 38 weeks of the year. At Brown Bears Nursery, we are registered to provide FEEE places and can guide you through the application process to ensure you receive the full benefit.
2. 30 Hours Free Childcare
Working parents of three and four-year-olds may be eligible for an additional 15 hours of free childcare per week, bringing the total to 30 hours. Eligibility criteria include both parents (or the sole parent in a single-parent household) earning the equivalent of at least 16 hours per week at the National Minimum Wage, but less than £100,000 per year. We offer places that accommodate the 30 hours free childcare scheme and can assist you in determining your eligibility and applying for this funding.
3. Tax-Free Childcare
The Tax-Free Childcare scheme allows eligible working parents to receive up to £2,000 per child, per year (£4,000 for a child with a disability) to help with childcare costs. For every £8 you pay into your childcare account, the government will add £2, which can then be used to pay for childcare at registered providers like Brown Bears Nursery. We accept payments through the Tax-Free Childcare scheme and can provide guidance on setting up and managing your account.
4. Employer-Supported Childcare Vouchers
Although the Employer-Supported Childcare Voucher scheme is closed to new applicants, parents who are already enrolled can continue to use vouchers to pay for childcare. If you are part of this scheme, we accept childcare vouchers as payment and can assist with any necessary arrangements.
5. Childcare Grants for Students
If you are a full-time higher education student with children, you may be eligible for a Childcare Grant to help with childcare costs. This grant can cover up to 85% of your childcare expenses, depending on your household income. Brown Bears Nursery is a registered childcare provider, and our team can provide the necessary documentation to support your application for this grant.
Conclusion
Understanding and accessing the various childcare funding options can significantly ease the financial burden of early education. At Brown Bears Nursery, we are committed to assisting families in navigating these options to ensure that every child has the opportunity to benefit from high-quality early years education. If you have any questions or need further assistance with childcare funding, please do not hesitate to contact us.
For more detailed information, please visit our website.
