Navigating the world of childcare funding can often feel overwhelming for parents. At East Lane Montessori, we aim to make the process as straightforward as possible, ensuring that families can access the financial support they are entitled to. Here, we’ll provide a detailed guide on the funding opportunities available at our nursery and how you can benefit from them.
What Childcare Funding is Available?
In the UK, the government provides several schemes to help families with the cost of early years education. At East Lane Montessori, we accept a range of funding options, making it easier for families to afford high-quality early education for their children. The key schemes include:
15 Hours Free Childcare for 3- and 4-Year-Olds
All families in England are entitled to 15 hours of free childcare per week for 38 weeks of the year (term time) once their child turns three. This universal offer provides children with access to essential early learning experiences, helping them develop foundational skills before starting school.
30 Hours Free Childcare for Working Families
Working families may be eligible for an additional 15 hours of free childcare, taking their total entitlement to 30 hours per week during term time. This scheme is available to parents who meet the income criteria, and means all of your hours at nursery are covered by the funded hours, and there is only a small consumables to pay. This ensures your child benefits from a nurturing and stimulating environment at East Lane Montessori for next to nothing.
Funding for 2-Year-Olds
Some families with 2-year-olds may qualify for 15 hours of free childcare per week if they meet certain criteria, such as receiving specific benefits or meeting income thresholds. This funding enables younger children to access early education, supporting their development from an earlier age.
Tax-Free Childcare Scheme
In addition to free childcare hours, families can benefit from the government’s Tax-Free Childcare scheme. Under this initiative, parents can receive up to £2,000 per year, per child, towards childcare costs, with the government contributing £2 for every £8 paid into a childcare account. This funding is available for children up to the age of 12.
How We Support Families with Funding Applications
At East Lane Montessori, we believe that every family should have access to high-quality childcare, regardless of their financial situation. Our team is here to guide you through the funding application process, ensuring you understand your options and can take full advantage of available schemes. Here’s how we help:
- Personalised Consultations: We offer one-to-one consultations to help you determine which funding options you may be eligible for and guide you through the application process.
- Seamless Administration: Our administrative team handles the paperwork and liaises with local authorities to ensure your funding is processed smoothly and efficiently.
- Transparent Fee Structures: We provide clear and transparent fee information, so you understand exactly how funding impacts your payments and any additional costs involved.
Why Early Years Funding is Important
Early years funding not only helps families manage childcare costs but also provides children with access to valuable learning opportunities. Research shows that high-quality early education lays the foundation for lifelong success, promoting cognitive, social, and emotional development. By accessing funded childcare at East Lane Montessori, your child can benefit from:
- A tailored Montessori curriculum designed to foster independence and curiosity.
- A nurturing environment where they feel safe and supported.
- Engaging activities that stimulate their love for learning and exploration.
How to Apply for Childcare Funding
Applying for funding is a straightforward process, and our team is here to assist you every step of the way. Here’s a simple guide to getting started:
- Check Your Eligibility: Use the government’s childcare funding calculator to determine which schemes you qualify for.
- Register Your Child: Contact East Lane Montessori to discuss your funding options and secure your child’s place.
- Submit Required Documents: Provide any necessary documentation, such as proof of income or benefits, to support your funding application.
- Confirm Your Funding: Once your application is processed, we’ll confirm the details with you and ensure everything is set up correctly.
Why Choose East Lane Montessori?
At East Lane Montessori, we are passionate about providing children with the best possible start in life. By accepting government funding and supporting families through the process, we ensure that every child can access high-quality early education. Our Montessori approach encourages independence, creativity, and a lifelong love for learning, helping children thrive in their early years and beyond.
To learn more about our funding options or to book a visit, please contact us today. We’re here to help you navigate the funding process and provide your child with a nurturing and enriching early years experience.
