Webinar - Let's Chat Childcare: Making Funding Simple
Let’s be honest – figuring out childcare funding can feel like trying to crack a code. Different schemes, different rules, and changes every year… it’s a lot. That’s why we’ve put together a friendly, expert-led webinar to help you make sense of it all.
Join our Funding experts, Kelly and Muriel, as they walk you through the latest funding options – including what’s new for 2025. They’ll cover who’s eligible, how to apply, and handy tips for getting the best out of your funding.
They’re also joined by one of our nursery managers, sharing real-life insights into how funded childcare helps families and gives children access to amazing early education.
We finished with a live Q&A and added frequently asked questions from the session below.
(Webinar on Demand, 1st October 2025)
Our panelists
KellyFunding Manager
Krupa Nursery Manager at Nottingham Day Nursery and Preschool
MurielScottish Funding Expert
Earning above £100K FAQ's
There are a number of income sources which are included, please see the details on the Government website Personal Allowances: adjusted net income - GOV.UK
Universal funding of 15 hours for 3&4 years olds has no income criteria and funding is available the term after the child’s third birthday.
Yes, tax-free childcare has an income cap of £100k per parent.
Apply and using funding codes FAQ's
You should apply for your funding in the term prior to the one you want to use funding and at least 6 weeks before deadline to apply for a code.
By 31/12/2025 to use in Spring term 2026, by 31/03/2026 to use in Summer term 2026 and by 31/08/2026 to use in Autumn term 2026.
Yes, you can register for a place before you have a funding code. You will need to apply for the funding code ahead of the term you want to use it from and by the deadline for applications, it is advised this should be at least 6 weeks before the deadline.
No, once you receive your code you will need to reconfirm eligibility every 3 months, and your funding will continue.
If you wish to continue with your childcare, please ensure you continue to reconfirm your working family funding code every 3 months.
Nursery Places FAQ's
Some of our nurseries do have waitlists and are busy with enquiries especially near Open Days. It is important that you try and visit the nursery as soon as to see if there is a space see what the nursery manager and the deputy manager can offer you.
Under the latest government guidance, families may choose to opt out of paying for essentials and extras during the funded hours yet still receive the services and consumables. However, because the government funded hours do not cover these costs, this will be at the direct cost to the nursery. It is important to understand that the flexibility of the current model works as a sustainable offer for families and the nursery. We will be keeping this under review and may need to make changes pending the impact of the changes from the government guidance.
Scotland FAQ's
Childcare funding policies vary by region due to different government priorities and budgets. Scotland has its own set of rules and funding schemes separate from England.
