38 WEEKS
How many weeks of free childcare?
Funded hours run for 38 weeks a year: 1,140 hours at 30 hours a week, 570 at 15.
Free childcare application checklist
Get the four-page England eligibility and application guide by email.
Key facts
- The entitlement covers 38 weeks per year.
- 30 hours a week equals 1,140 funded hours a year; 15 hours equals 570.
- Early-years funded hours end once the child reaches school age.
Age bands at a glance
| Child’s age | Funded hours | Who qualifies |
|---|---|---|
| Under 9 months | 0 | Starts the term after 9 months |
| 9–35 months | 30 | Eligible working parents |
| 3–4 years | 15 or 30 | 15 universal; 30 if working-parent eligible |
| School age | 0 early-years hours | Scheme ends |
Frequently asked questions
How many weeks are funded each year?
38 weeks.
What does 30 hours equal annually?
1,140 funded hours.
What does 15 hours equal annually?
570 funded hours.
Do hours continue at school age?
No. The scheme ends when the child starts school.
Related guides
30 hours · Eligibility · From 9 months · Universal 15 hours · Complete guide · £100k limit · 2-year-olds · 38 weeks · Single parents