Free childcare for some 2-year-olds

If eligible, show your confirmation message and reference number to the approved provider of your choice.

Secure your free spot with your provider well before term starts. 

Your provider will claim the cost of your child’s free place from Southwark Council. 

Providers cannot charge you for the 15 hours free childcare. You may have to pay for extra costs like:

• extra childcare hours

• meals

• nappies

• trips 

They may also charge you a refundable deposit to secure your childcare place.

If the providers allow it, you can split your free childcare between 2 providers. The total free hours cannot be more than what you're entitled to per term.  

If your circumstances change your child can keep their free place until the term after they turn 3. 

Then they will get the 15 hours free childcare that 3 to 4-year-olds are entitled to.