There are lots of government funding options to help parents with childcare costs. Although this does not mean that your childcare costs will be free, it does mean that your childcare costs could be much less than you expected. Several separate government-funded childcare schemes are available to parents with children aged 9 months to 4 years of age.
You can also split your funding offer between two childcare providers. To do this, you will need to provide your eligibility code and information to each provider, and you can access no more than two sites in one day.
Each provider may calculate your funding on either a term-time only or an all-year-round basis. The providers cannot exceed the funded offer of 15 hours – 570 hours per year and 30 hours – 1140 hours per year.
Every local authority applies childcare funding slightly differently. To help make things clearer, we have created funding guides tailored to each nursery’s area. Each guide walks you through what funding may be available for your child’s age, how funded hours can fit around your family’s routine, and what to expect when applying, so you can feel informed, supported, and confident in your next steps. Choose your local authority to learn what is available.
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Private nursery fees are a significant part of household expenditure and we understand that you need to plan, budget and fully understand the charges associated with nursery fees, both private and funded.
The Old Station Nursery private nursery fee schedules clearly layout the nursery fees for different ages, the times that the nursery is open from and to, any discounts such as nursery fee discounts for NHS staff and what is included in your private nursery fees.
Many families are eligible for funding from the government towards their child’s fees from 9 months of age.
We understand that nursery fees can sometimes be confusing. Our fee calculator is designed to give you a clear weekly estimate based on a few simple questions.
You can start by using the calculator landing page and selecting your nursery from the dropdown, or, if you already know which nursery or area you are interested in, you can visit that nursery’s page directly using the menu or nursery finder and use the calculator there.
The calculator provides an estimate to help with planning. Final fees will always be confirmed by your chosen nursery, based on your child’s age, attendance pattern and funding eligibility.
Find your local nursery to understand how childcare funding works, with clear guidance tailored to each setting.
To claim Early Years Funding, you must complete a “Parental Declaration” form providing information about you and your child. The Old Station Nursery Group has invested in Funding Loop, allowing parents and staff to find and complete the required application documents and declarations, ensuring quicker access to the funding they are entitled to.
Learn more about how Funding Loop works in the video below.
Got questions about fees and funded childcare? Our FAQ section breaks down everything you need to know about the costs involved and how to access funding. We’ll help you understand your options so you can make informed decisions and get the support you need.
Nursery funding is government support that helps families with the cost of childcare. It allows eligible parents to access a set number of funded hours each week with us at The Old Station Nursery.
As of September 2025, working parents of children aged 9 months up to school age can receive up to 30 hours of funded childcare per week during term time (or the equivalent number of hours stretched across the year).
We also support families who are eligible for Tax-Free Childcare or additional funding, such as 15 hours for all 3 and 4-year-olds.
If you’re unsure what you qualify for, you can check your eligibility and apply through Best Start in Life, or speak to your nursery manager, who’ll be happy to help guide you through the process.
Yes, to do this you will need to provide your eligibility code and information to each provider and you will not be able to access more than two sites in one day. Each provider may calculate your funding on either term-time only or all year-round basis, combined the providers cannot exceed the funded offer of 15-hours, 570 hours per year, and 30-hours – 1140 hours per year.
We do! We understand that paying for childcare can be challenging, so we offer multiple funding options at our nurseries, including 15 and 30 hours of funded childcare. If you’re unsure if you are eligible, reach out to your nearby nursery to determine the best funding option for you. Alternatively, read our Funding Guide.
Yes, you can use the free code from your previous nursery as long as it is still valid. These codes typically migrate with the child.
The Old Station Nursery Funding Guide explains the types of funding, eligibility and how to apply.