The Free Entitlement (FE) for 2 year olds scheme is funded by the Government to offer free, quality, flexible early education and care for eligible 2 year olds in West Sussex. The current scheme has expanded to allow 40% of all two year old children across West Sussex to take up free early education and care.

What does the funding pay for?

The funding pays for 570 hours per year of flexible early education and care. This is for a maximum of 15 hours per week over a minimum of 38 weeks per year.

Your child will be able to go to a Pre School, nursery or FE Childminder who are authorised to offer free places.

Am I eligible?

Families need to meet certain criteria in order to apply for the Free Entitlement for 2 year olds.

You may be able to claim Free Entitlement for 2 year olds if your child is of eligible age and the parent/carer is also in receipt of one of the eligible benefits (please see over).

Eligibility criteria:

Child is of eligible age
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Child is of eligible age and you are in receipt of one of the following benefits:

  • Income Support
  • Guaranteed element of State Pension Credit
  • Income-based Jobseeker’s Allowance
  • Income-related Employment and Support Allowance
  • Support under Part VI of the Immigration and Asylum Act 1999
  • Child Tax Credit (and have an annual gross income of no more than £16,190)
  • Working Tax Credit (and have an annual gross income of no more than £16,190)* or
  • they are a Child Looked After (where West Sussex County Council acts as the corporate parent)
  • the child is adopted*
  • the child has a Special Guardianship Order*
  • the child has a Child Protection or Child in Need Plan
  • the child has special educational needs or a disability (SEND).

These children are eligible if the child
receives Disability Living Allowance* has a current statement or Education, Health and Care Plan (EHPC).* o is known to the Early Years PARM

*You will need to provide evidence when you apply.

How do I apply?

Apply online by visiting our website
www.westsussex.gov.uk/freechildcare Guidance notes on how to complete the online application form are also available on this webpage under supporting documents. If you need further assistance, please:

Last updated 19/03/14