Choosing the right childcare provider for your child is an important decision, so it's a good idea to get as much information as possible before deciding what's best for you and your child.

There are several different options for pre-school childcare:

• Childminders
• Pre-schools
• Day Nurseries
• Nannies (Home Childcarer)
• Nanny & Au Pair Agencies
• Out of School Childcare

All 3 and 4 year olds are currently entitled to 15 hours of free early education, per week, during term time (or 570 hours per year over no fewer than 38 weeks of the year).  This entitlement comes into effect from the term after a child’s 3rd birthday and can be used in a variety of settings including; preschools, day nurseries and registered childminders.

Some working families with 3 and 4-year-old children may be entitled to an additional 15 hrs per week (30 hrs in total) of free childcare, or early education, over 38 weeks.  Eligible parents must make sure their details are up to date by reconfirming eligibility every 3 months.  You can check your eligibility and apply online for 30 Hr Funding via Childcare Choices.

Some 2 year olds may qualify for 15 hours of free childcare per week (over 38 weeks) from the term after their 2^nd birthday. You can check eligibility and apply on-line via Bracknell Forest Council – Free places for 2 year olds

Please visit Bracknell Forest Free Childcare for more information.

***This childcare support will be expanding***

Starting from April 2024, existing childcare support will be expanded in phases. By September 2025, most working families with children under the age of 5 will be entitled to 30 hours of childcare support.

The changes are being introduced gradually to make sure that providers can meet the needs of more families. This means that:

From April 2024, working parents of 2-year-olds will be able to access 15 hours childcare support.

From September 2024, 15 hours childcare support will be extended to all children from the age of 9 months to 3-year-olds.

From September 2025, working parents of children under the age of 5 will be entitled to 30 hours of childcare a week.

Like the existing offer, depending on your provider, these hours can be used over 38 weeks of the year (during school term time), or up to 52 weeks if you use fewer than your total hours per week.

Please see "Expanded EY Entitlements from April 2024" in Documents section for an overview of changes

Disclaimer: The Council does not necessarily endorse or recommend any of the links or services included in this services guide - please read our Disclaimer in full (link at the top of this page) before using this services guide.