3 and 4-year-old funding

All children are eligible for an early education place from the term after their 3rd birthday, up to and including the term they turn 5. This is a universal entitlement.

Most children start reception class in September after their 4th birthday.

The term starts on 1 January, 1 April or 1 September. 

What you can get 

Families can receive up to 15 hours on a term-time basis. Some providers may deliver places on an ‘all year round’ basis, which provides fewer hours over more weeks of the year. 

Your early education provider will confirm how they offer the hours and claim them for you. The number of hours in a session and the days available may be different at each provider. 

There is more information on the Best Start in Life website.

Children in the care of or previously in the care of the Council

If your child is in the care of or previously in the care of the Council, they may be able to access an additional 15 hours to make up a 30-hour place. To arrange this, contact your Trafford Social Worker.

If you are a Social Worker, you can find more information about how to request these hours.