Funded Early Education and Childcare for two year olds
If you have a two year old and get extra support, you may be able to get funded Early Education and Childcare.
What you can get
Your child may be entitled to:
- 15 hours of funded early learning each week
- Funding for 38 weeks of the year
This is sometimes called Early Learning for two year olds.
Who the funding is for
The funding is for families in England who get extra support, including:
- families receiving Universal Credit
- children with an Education, Health and Care Plan (EHCP)
A two-year-old child can also get funded Early Education and Childcare if they:
- are looked after by Swindon Borough Council
- have special education needs (SEN) or an education, health and care plan (EHCP)
- get Disability Living Allowance
- have left care under a special guardianship order, child arrangements order or adoption order
A child can get free childcare and early education from the term after their second birthday. However, you may have to pay for optional extra costs such as meals, nappies, or trips.
You can use our directory to find childcare providers in your area. You need to click the 'details' button to check what age group and funding type a provider covers.
If you have no recourse to public funds
If you are a non-EEA citizen with no recourse to public funds, you may still be eligible providing you meet the income threshold. Your family earnings must not be greater than the following:
- £26,500 for families outside London with one child
- £30,600 for families outside London with two or more children
- Savings not above £16,000
How to apply
If you believe your child is eligible for Early Education and Childcare, you can apply using the online form below:
Further information
For more details about Early Education and Childcare, visit the Best Start in Life website.
If you have questions or need support, you can:
- Email: EY&CBrokerage@swindon.gov.uk
- We aim to respond within five working days
- Call: Early Years Engagement Officer on 07812 759534