We know that covering the cost of childcare isn't always easy, and we want to help our families find the best options available to them.
Over a million families are entitled to government-funded childcare support that could be worth thousands of pounds, so if you could do with some help with your childcare costs, you can find out about all the options online. Visit ChildcareChoices.gov.uk for more information on the support you could receive and don't miss out on the help you could be entitled to.
Select a country to find out about the funding you may be entitled to.
If your child is aged 9 months or above by the end of December and you believe you will be entitled to Working Family Funding for the first time from January, the deadline to apply for your Eligibility Code is 31st December 2024. To obtain a code or to renew your code, if funding is already in place, please visit https://www.gov.uk/check-eligible-free-childcare-if-youre-working or call HMRC (0300 123 4097).
As the UK's leading childcare and nursery provider, we do all we can to give your child the very best start in life - and make your life easier. So if you're finding childcare funding a little tricky, we'll do our very best to help. Click the link below to download this handy guide.
Funding your childcareWondering how much your childcare may cost? Try our funding and fees calculator to help estimate your fees.
Fee CalculatorUnderstanding childcare funding isn't always easy, but the good news is we're here to help. Click the link below to download our guide to funded childcare and how we offer this at Busy Bees.
Download funding guideParents of children who already receive funding at one of our centres, or will be funded in the next term, will be invited to create a Funding Loop account to receive their child's documents securely.
We know that covering the cost of childcare isn't always easy, so we're pleased to tell you about the different government funding available.
Designed to give working families up to 30 hours funded childcare a week (1,140 hours per year), it could help you save on lots of happy, adventure-filled sessions at Busy Bees, all year round.
Every family's different, so whatever your childcare needs, come and talk to us.
We'll help you understand how the scheme works and put together a package that makes life easier, and more affordable.
Like to find out more? If you're already part of the Busy Bees family, speak to your Centre Director. And if you're thinking of joining us, it's really easy to book a visit.
Book a visit online todayFrom August 2020 all parents of 3 and 4 year olds, will be eligible to receive 1140 hours of funded childcare.
This will be high quality, flexible Early Learning Care (ELC) that is accessible and affordable for all families.
The main aims of the expansion in ELC are to:
Don't miss out... If your child is entitled to 1140 hours of Funded Early Learning & Childcare (ELC) contact your chosen Busy Bees Nursery now for more information.
Who's eligible for the funding?
Every 3 and 4 year old is entitled to 1140 hours of funding from August 2020, funding will also be available for eligible 2 year olds.
What funding will I actually get?
You'll be entitled to up 1140 hours per year. At Busy Bees we've worked hard to balance the funding with our ability to bring you really supportive, quality care.
When can my funding start?
You can claim up to 1140 hours of childcare once your child has turned 3. In some local authorities you may only be able to access the funding in the term following your child's 3rd birthday.
Terms follow the school year. For example, if your child's birthday is in July, you are eligible for 1140 hours of funding from August.
What's the difference between the existing 600 hour offer and this one?
Families with 3 and 4 year olds already get 600 hours of funded childcare per week in term time. This is a Universal Offer, so everyone can benefit, the new offer increases funding from 600 to 1140 hours a year.
For more information for your 2, 3 or 4 year old please visit your local Busy Bees for more information on how and when to apply.
How do I use my funding at Busy Bees?
We really want the funding to work for your whole family, so whether your child needs year-round care or part-time support, we'll put together a package that makes life easier - and more affordable.
We'll talk with you about what you need, explain a bit more about how the funding works and help you through the process, step by step. If you know you need certain days and times, it's a good idea to talk to us early so we can get you booked in.
Do I have to use all of my hours?
Not at all. Just use the hours you’d like to.
Is the funding just available in term time?
At Busy Bees we're very happy to stretch your funding across the whole year, averaging your funded hours out for up to 52 weeks; termly funding options are also available.
All children who reside in Wales are entitled to early education (sometimes known as Foundation Phase Nursery) from the term after their 3rd birthday.
All local authorities provide a minimum of 10hrs per week of early education during school term time, either in a local school or in a setting such as a playgroup, day nursery or a Cylch Meithrin.
Eligible working parents could receive government-funded Childcare Offer in addition to the early education. This enables parents to receive the combined total of Early Education and Childcare Offer of up to 30hrs per week, for up to maximum of 48 weeks per academic year, which is allocated as follows; 39 weeks during school term time the combined funding will apply, then during the school holidays, when there is no early education, the offer will provide up to a maximum of 30hrs Childcare offer, for a maximum of 9 weeks.
Parents can apply for the early education place through their local authority and if eligible apply for the Childcare Offer. Contact your local Family Information Service for more information.