DfE Early Years Key Updates: Funding, Charges and Guidance for Wraparound Childcare
Includes - Additional Information on Applying for the New Entitlement for Working Parents of 2YOs / Clarifying Policy on Charging / Publication of Wraparound Childcare Guidance for Schools and Trusts.
Additional Information on Applying for the New Entitlement for Working Parents of 2YOs
HMRC have now sent out the letters containing temporary codes to families with later reconfirmation windows (windows which open on or after 15 February and before 1 April 2024).
Please see link below for parental FAQs which have been updated to reflect this development, to combine previous FAQs into a single document, and to correct an error regarding the date by which a child needs to be born for parents to claim 15 hours from September (now question 14).
Please do let us know if there are other questions consistently coming up from parents or providers which we have not covered.
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Clarifying Policy on Charging
A few LAs got in touch to ask whether a change to the wording of clause A1.31 of the statutory guidance means that the policy has changed with regard to providers charging for meals, snacks and other consumables. We have been asked to clarify.
The policy has not changed. As set out in A1.36 of the guidance, Local Authorities should work with providers and parents to ensure that all parents, including disadvantaged families, have fair access to a free place, which must be delivered completely free of charge. The free childcare entitlements are not intended to cover the costs of meals, other consumables (such as nappies or sun cream), additional hours or additional activities (such as trips). Providers may charge a fee for these additions.
However, we removed the line regarding charges being voluntary in order to provide clarity to readers. This was partially based on feedback we received during our testing period with a small number of Local Authorities, providers and relevant bodies. If a parent is unable to pay for consumables or if a parent wishes to provide their own, then the parent and provider can discuss alternative options. This could include allowing parents to supply their own meals or nappies, or waiving or reducing the cost of meals and snacks. As set out in clause A1.33 of the guidance such charges should not be made a condition of accessing a free place.
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Publication of Wraparound Childcare Guidance for Schools and Trusts
Today we have published wraparound childcare guidance for schools and trusts. The guidance outlines the role of schools and trusts in relation to wraparound childcare, for children of primary school age. It also offers a practical guide for setting up wraparound provision, run by schools or PVI providers, on a school site.