To see if you are eligible or to apply visit Best Start in Life or apply for free childcare if you're working or phone Best Start in Life on 0300 123 4097.
Remember, for all free and funded places, your child becomes eligible the term after they turn the relevant age. The deadlines to apply are:
| When you would like to use your entitlements from | The deadline to apply for a code |
| 1 January | 31 December |
| 1 April | 31 March |
| 1 September | 31 August |
If you already have a Tax-Free childcare account, please apply no sooner than 4 weeks before your reconfirmation date.
If you are on maternity, paternity or parental leave or starting a new job, application deadlines are as follows:
|
When you start / return to work
|
When you can apply from
|
When your free hours can start
|
|
1 Oct 2024 to 31 Jan 2025
|
1 Sept to 31 Dec 2024
|
1 Jan 2025
|
|
1 Feb to 30 April 2025
|
1 Jan to 31 March 2025
|
1 April 2025
|
|
1 May to 30 Sept 2025
|
1 April to 31 Aug 2025
|
1 Sept 2025 |
Sign up to get local information about the new entitlements.
Speak to your local childcare provider and sign up now (as some places get booked up early). Use our childcare directory to find childcare near you.
Get in touch with the Early Years Sector Support team at Newcastle City Council - email EarlyYears@newcastle.gov.uk or phone 0191 277 4674