- Introduction
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Who can get funded childcare
- Early education: what parents ask
- Using your funded childcare hours
- Funded childcare declaration form
Early education helps your child grow, learn, and make friends in a fun and safe environment. If you qualify, your child can get up to 15 hours of funded childcare a week over 38 weeks of the year—don’t miss out!
Find out what help you can get with costs on Who can get funded childcare.
Questions parents ask
Every family is different. Choosing how your child learns is a personal choice, whether that's at home or in a setting.
Early years settings offer new experiences, social skills, and learning opportunities that support your child’s development.
No. You can start with fewer hours and increase them gradually if you want to. Just agree this with your provider in advance.
Once approved, your FEET funding is guaranteed until your child turns three—even if your situation changes.
Use ßÙßÇÂþ»’s .
Searching for your 2 year old? Select providers offering FEET (free early education for two year olds).
For support finding a provider, you can:
- contact your local Family Centre
- email eycommissioningteam@surreycc.gov.uk
Many schools welcome 2 year olds. Check their websites for details.
Yes, you can move the funded hours to a new provider, if:
- You move and can’t travel to your current childcare provider
- Your job changes and the hours no longer meet your needs
- You’ve stated your child will leave during the funded period, and the last day to claim the funded hours on your declaration form
- Your provider gets an inadequate Ofsted rating
- Your provider closes or is suspended
You may still need to give notice as per your contract.
They’ll automatically get 15 hours of funded childcare for all 3 and 4 year olds with no gap.
Concerns you may have
Every family’s situation is unique. Here are some common concerns and advice to help you make the best choice for your child’s early learning journey:
You don’t have to start funding right away. If you qualify, you’re eligible until your child turns 3.
You can start small and build up.
That’s okay. Providers should still welcome your child.
If you have issues, email: eycommissioningteam@surreycc.gov.uk
Providers offer settling-in periods and may offer flexible hours to help your child adjust. You can start with fewer hours and build up.
Apply now. You can transfer your funding to a new provider if you move.
Talk to your provider.
Not all providers offer FEET funding, so check if yours does and if they have a space. If you qualify, show them your acceptance letter.
You can split hours between providers or switch later—at the end of a funded period.
No problem. Your provider can check your eligibility on ßÙßÇÂþ»’s portal with your consent, or email: eycommissioningteam@surreycc.gov.uk
Want to know more about FEET and funded hours?
If your child is 2 years old, you might qualify for FEET funding.
- Find out about FEET for 2 year olds who get extra support
- See other funding options on Who can get funded childcare
- Learn how you can use your hours on Using your funded hours
Ready to apply for FEET
Check if you qualify and apply today on the funded childcare parent portal.