Children We Look After and Previously Looked After Children can access up to 15 hours of funded early education and childcare a week, for 38 weeks of the year. Funding is available from the term after your child's 2nd birthday, starting on 1 January, 1 April or 1 September.
With the funding, you can claim a placement with a school pre-school, private nursery or with a registered childminder. In St Helens, please click on this link to apply for your 'Passport for 2s' https://www.sthelens.gov.uk/passportfor2
3 and 4 year old funding
All 3 to 4-year-olds in England are entitled to 15 hours a week free nursery education. This is a universal entitlement and you do not need to apply for this funding. You can get it from the term after your child's 3rd birthday, starting on 1 January, 1 April or 1 September.
30 hours funding
Foster carers may be eligible to claim 30 hours free childcare if you are in paid work outside your fostering role and if the child's social worker agrees that accessing the extended hours is consistent with the child's care plan. Carers and social workers can fill in this form to apply for the 30 hours funded places https://www.sthelens.gov.uk/30hoursfoster
Childcare choices
The online directory provides information about the different childcare choices in St Helens, such as:
The directory tells you what they offer, when they are open and where to find them. Information is updated directly by providers and includes details on what they charge and whether or not they offer funded early education places. It also provides advice on what to look for when choosing childcare, so that you know they are safe.
If your child is disabled or has special needs, the online directory also includes details of providers who have expertise in specific areas. You may also wish to view the St Helens Special Education Needs & Disabilities (SEND) website for more help.
