If you’re a Nigerian living in the UK and juggling work while raising a young family, you may be eligible for free childcare under government schemes in England. This guide simplifies the process for you, so you can focus on what matters most—your family and career.
Is Your Child Starting Nursery Next Year?
Eligible working parents can get free childcare for children aged 9 months to 4 years old.
Important: The deadline to apply for your childcare codes for the next term is 31st December.
Don’t miss out—start your application now!
Find out more: Apply for Free Childcare
What You Can Get
- 15 Hours Weekly
For children aged 9 months to 2 years. - 30 Hours Weekly
For children aged 3 to 4 years.
You’ll need to create a childcare account to apply.
Note: Different schemes are available in Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland.
Tax-Free Childcare
If you’re already paying for childcare, you can also apply for Tax-Free Childcare to reduce costs. However, if someone else claims Tax-Free Childcare for the same child, your application for free childcare will be declined.
When to Apply
15 Hours Free Childcare
- From 9 Months Old
You can apply as early as 23 weeks old.
| Child’s Birthday | Start Date | When to Apply |
|---|---|---|
| 1 September – 31 December | Term starting 1 January | Before 1 January |
| 1 January – 31 March | Term starting 1 April | Before 1 April |
| 1 April – 31 August | Term starting 1 September | Before 1 September |
30 Hours Free Childcare
- From 2 Years and 36 Weeks
| Child’s 3rd Birthday | Start Date | When to Apply |
|---|---|---|
| 1 September – 31 December | Term starting 1 January | Before 1 January |
| 1 January – 31 March | Term starting 1 April | Before 1 April |
| 1 April – 31 August | Term starting 1 September | Before 1 September |
Important: You must apply for a code before the term begins (e.g., by 31 August for a September start).
Returning to Work or Starting a New Job
The date you start or return to work impacts when you can apply:
| Starting/Returning Work | Start Date | When to Apply |
|---|---|---|
| 1 May – 30 September | Term starting 1 September | Between 1 April – 31 August |
| 1 October – 31 January | Term starting 1 January | Between 1 September – 31 December |
| 1 February – 30 April | Term starting 1 April | Between 1 January – 31 March |
What You Need to Apply
To apply, you’ll need the following details for yourself and your partner (if applicable):
- National Insurance Number
- Unique Taxpayer Reference (UTR) (if self-employed)
- Your child’s UK birth certificate reference number
- Start date of your work (if applicable)
For self-employed applicants, you may also need to provide:
- Payslips
- Bank statements
- Accountant’s statement
- Invoices or annual wage slips
Maximizing Free Childcare
You can spread your free childcare hours across the year by choosing fewer hours weekly over more weeks. Talk to your provider to check if this option is available.
Additional Costs to Consider
Although the childcare hours are free, there might be additional charges for:
- Meals
- Nappies
- Extra activities like trips
Your childcare provider should clearly outline these costs.
PS: For Nigerian families in the UK, this is a great opportunity to ease the burden of childcare costs while you work toward a brighter future. Don’t miss tomorrow’s 31st December deadline—start your application today!
Apply Now: Free Childcare Application
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