Question 1

Government Childcare Funding

Accepted Answer

For the most up-to-date information about childcare funding, please visit: www.childcarechoices.gov.uk

Funding is available depending on your child’s age and your family circumstances. Details are outlined in the sections below.

Question 2

Funding for 3 & 4-Year-Olds (15 & 30 Hours)

Accepted Answer

All 3 and 4-year-olds in England are entitled to 15 hours per week (570 hours per year) of funded early education. At Little Leaves, this is delivered over 38 weeks during term time.
Some working families may be eligible for 30 hours per week (1140 hours per year).

To claim 30 hours:
You must apply via childcarechoices.gov.uk
Provide us with your unique reference number before your child starts
Reconfirm your eligibility every three months

Question 3

Funding for 2-Year-Olds

Accepted Answer

Some 2-year-olds are eligible for 15 funded hours per week for 38 weeks per year.
Parents must:
Apply online
Provide their child’s unique EY code
Provide a copy of their child’s birth certificate for validation
From 1 April 2024, some working families may also be eligible for funded hours for 2-year-olds.

Please note:
This funding cannot be claimed alongside Free-for-2 funding
You must apply via childcarechoices.gov.uk
Eligibility must be reconfirmed quarterly
Your reference number must be provided on your Registration Form before your child starts

Question 4

How Funding Works in Kent

Accepted Answer

In Kent, funded hours are delivered over 38 weeks, aligned with the academic year:
Autumn Term (Terms 1 & 2) – 14 weeks
Spring Term (Terms 3 & 4) – 11 weeks
Summer Term (Terms 5 & 6) – 13 weeks

At the start of each term, parents must complete and return a Parental Declaration Form confirming the number of hours they wish to claim.

Please note:
Children aged 3 and 4 must attend during Kent’s designated headcount week for funding to be claimed
Kent funds complete weeks only
Any additional sessions beyond funded weeks will be charged and shown on your invoice
If you do not wish your child to attend additional sessions, please inform us within four weeks
Children starting in the Summer Term may miss up to one week of their annual entitlement

Question 5

Early Years Pupil Premium (EYPP)

Accepted Answer

Early Years Pupil Premium provides additional funding for eligible 3 and 4-year-olds, helping us enhance learning experiences and support children’s development.

We encourage parents to complete Section 5 of the funding form so we can apply on your behalf. We will inform you if your application is successful.

Question 6

Closures & Funded Session Adjustments

Accepted Answer

Occasionally we may close, for example on bank holidays or voting days. Where this happens, we will offer alternative sessions at no additional charge.

Please let us know in advance if you do not wish your child to attend these sessions.

Question 7

Fees

Accepted Answer

A £50 non-refundable deposit is required to secure your child’s place. This is payable four weeks before the start date and will be deducted from your first term’s fees.
A deposit is not required for children accessing funded hours only.

Session Fees
Morning Session
9:00am – 12:00pm
£19.00

Afternoon Session
12:00pm – 3:00pm
£19.00

Full Day
9:00am – 3:00pm
£38.00

Question 8

Voluntary Contributions

Accepted Answer

If able, families are welcome to make a small monetary donation towards snacks and resources. 
This is always appreciated, but never expected.

& Funding

Fees

Clear guidance on funding, fees, and the support available to your child.

Government Childcare Funding

Funding for 3 & 4-Year-Olds (15 & 30 Hours)

Funding for 2-Year-Olds

How Funding Works in Kent

Early Years Pupil Premium (EYPP)

Closures & Funded Session Adjustments

Fees

Voluntary Contributions

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