The lowdown on free education and childcare for 2-year-olds
Find out what childcare and free education your 2-year-old is entitled to
We’ve put together a helpful guide to help you understand what free childcare and education may be available to you should you need it.
If you’re living in England there are a variety of free childcare and education options available for some (not all) 2-year-olds.
How do I know if I’m eligible for free childcare / early education in England (2025)?
To qualify for free childcare or early education under the current rules, check the following:
If you’re a working parent (for 30 hours a week offer):
Your child is aged 9 months up to school age.
You (and your partner, if you have one) must be working or about to start work.
Each parent expects to earn at least £167 per week before tax (or equivalent).
Neither parent has adjusted net income of £100,000 or more.
If you’re not eligible for the 30-hours working-parents scheme, your 2-year-old may still qualify for 15 hours a week if you meet any of these:
Your child is looked after by the local authority.
Your child has an Education, Health and Care Plan (EHC plan) or Statement of SEN.
The child receives Disability Living Allowance.
The child has left care under an adoption order, special guardianship order or child arrangements order.
You (or your family) receive specified benefits or supports, such as Universal Credit.
Immigration / NRPF / Savings: If your immigration status is restricted, or you don’t have access to public funds, there may still be eligibility under specific conditions. Savings and household income may also be capped.
What happens next if I’m eligible?
You apply (usually via the HMRC / Gov.uk portal) for a code or confirmation of eligibility.
Once approved, you give the eligibility code to a registered / approved childcare or early education provider.
The free hours usually start from the term after certain birthdays: the term after 9 months old (for the 30-hour scheme), or the term after the child turns 2 in many cases.
Are there more criteria?
Yes. Aside from benefits and work/income, eligibility depends on:
Child’s circumstances (e.g. special education needs, looked-after status, adoption etc.)
Immigration status and whether one has access to public funds
Savings / other income which may affect the threshold in some local areas
Verification, e.g. you may need a National Insurance number, proof of income, etc.
Do the same rules apply in Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland?
No. Each of those has its own rules, entitlements and timelines. You’d need to check your local government, education authority or council in your part of the UK.