Nursery Education Grant information and headcount dates

What is free early education for three and four year-olds?
The government gives funding called the Nursery Education Grant (NEG) to local authorities so that all parents who want free early education for their pre-school age children can get it.

When are children eligible for the NEG?
Children become eligible for the NEG from the beginning of the term after their third birthday. This means a child born between:

• 1 September and 31 December is eligible from 1 January (the spring term)
• 1 January and 31 March is eligible from 1 April (the summer term)
• 1 April and 31 August is eligible from 1 September (the autumn term).

What are the next nursery headcount dates for the NEG?

• Spring 2012 term - Thursday 19 January 2012
• Summer 2012 term - Thursday 19 April 2012
• Autumn 2012 term - Thursday 20 September 2012

Where can I get the NEG for my child?
You can get the NEG at most nurseries in Brent. This includes private, voluntary and council-run nurseries, independent schools with nursery classes, some children's centres and some childminders. Apply directly to the nurseries that are most convenient for you. Some are very full but it is usually possible to find a vacancy in most parts of Brent.

Contact Brent CFIS to get a list of nurseries, or if you cannot find a place in a nursery.

How much time will my child get?
The NEG funds up to 15 hours of early education a week up to 38 weeks a year during term time. Your child needs to start nursery at the beginning of term, so start looking before you need the place. Currently two-thirds of Brent nurseries provide 15 hours flexibly. This means you may be able to choose when your child attends. 

How do I apply for the NEG?
It is a good idea to put your child onto nursery waiting lists before they are three years old. Tell the manager or administrator that you want an NEG place.

How is the money paid?
It is paid by the Brent Early Years Service directly to the nursery or other provider. You do not have to apply to the council for the money.

What happens if I want or need more than 15 hours childcare at nursery or if I am already paying for more than 15 hours in a nursery?
If you want or need to pay for extra hours because you work or study, the NEG will be taken off your bill. You may be able to get extra help to pay for extra hours from the childcare element of Working Tax Credit, student support or other sources of funding.

How do I know if I am eligible for my child to get the NEG?
All children from the beginning of the term after their third birthday and all four year-olds in the UK can get the NEG. There are no exceptions. If you have difficulty finding a place in a nursery, call Brent CFIS.

Can I use a nursery outside Brent?
You can use nurseries in other local authorities if that is more convenient for you. The nursery will claim the NEG from its own council.

Tax Credit helpline: 0845 300 3900 (open 7 days 8am to 8pm)
www.hmrc.gov.uk
Student Support: 08456 077577
Free childcare for training and learning: 0800 121 8989
Brent Jobcentreplus: 0845 377 1000

For more information contact the Children and Families Information Service.