Early Learning and Childcare Provision

Eligible Two Year Olds

Two Year Olds

Children aged 2 years old could be eligible for funded early learning and childcare if:

  • their parent or carer is in receipt of certain benefits (listed below); or
  • they are care experienced:
    • looked after by a local council;
    • in kinship care; or
    • have been appointed a guardian.

Parents and carers who have experience of care can also access funded early learning and childcare for 2 year olds.

Eligible benefits are:

  • Income support
  • Jobseeker's Allowance (income-based)
  • Employment Support Allowance (income-based)
  • Incapacity Benefit or Severe Disablement Allowance
  • State Pension Credit
  • Support under Part VI of the immigration and Asylum Act 1999

If you receive Tax Credits or Universal Credit, then you can earn a certain amount of money and still be eligible. These income thresholds change annually. From April 2023, if you are on Child Tax Credit:

  • but not Working Tax Credit, then your earnings can be £18,725 a year or less
  • and Working Tax Credit, then your earnings can be £8,717 a year or less

If you are on Universal Credit, then your household take-home pay can be £726 a month or less.

When you complete the registration form you will be asked to provide evidence of your eligibility.

We will provide all eligible two year olds an early learning and childcare place from the day after their second birthday.