**Ask me about Funded hours
1. Purpose
This policy explains how I offer and manage government-funded early education places for children in my care. It is written in line with the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS), the Department for Education (DfE) requirements, and my Local Authority funding agreement.
2. Entitlement
Children may be entitled to:
15 hours funded childcare for all 3- and 4-year-olds.
30 hours funded childcare for eligible working families with 3- and 4-year-olds.
15 hours funded childcare for some 2-year-olds, depending on family circumstances or additional needs.
Funding for children from 9 months
Parents are responsible for applying for eligibility codes and reconfirming them when required.
3. Availability of Funded Hours
I offer funded hours subject to available spaces.
Funded hours can usually be taken as part of the sessions I provide.
I will explain to parents how hours can be used (e.g., term-time or stretched across the year).
Parents must complete a Parent Declaration Form each term, as required by my Local Authority.
4. What is Included in Funded Hours
Funded hours are free at the point of delivery – I will not charge top-up fees.
Additional charges may apply for things such as meals, snacks, outings, nappies, or extra hours outside the funded entitlement.
Parents will always be given a clear breakdown of what is funded and what is chargeable.
5. Attendance and Absences
Children are expected to attend their funded hours regularly.
If a child has repeated or long absences, I may need to discuss this with parents and inform the Local Authority in line with safeguarding requirements.
6. Invoicing and Communication
I will provide parents with an itemised invoice that shows:
How many hours are funded.
Any charges for extra hours or agreed services.
· Invoices will be clear, simple, and follow Local Authority rules.
7. Changes to Funding
If a parent becomes ineligible (e.g., a 30 hours code is not reconfirmed), I will work with the family to agree charges for additional hours; however, these fees will be liable by the parent.
If fees for non-funded hours or services are not paid, I reserve the right to withdraw the child’s place, in line with my Fees Policy.
8. Policy Review
This policy will be reviewed annually or sooner if government guidance or Local Authority rules change.
Date of Policy: 1/9/2025
Review Date: 1/9/2026
Signed: __________________ (Parent)
Signed: __________________(Childminder)