When and how to apply
You can apply when your child is 20 months old:
- child’s second birthday between 1 January and 31 March are entitled to their free place from the start of summer term in April (applications accepted from January)
- child’s second birthday between 1 April and 31 August are entitled to their free place from the start of the autumn term in September (applications accepted from April)
- child’s second birthday between 1 September and 31 December are entitled to their free place from the start of the spring term in January (applications accepted from September)
Any applications for children under 20 months old will not be processed.
Application process
You can complete your online application on the Parent Portal. This is the quickest and easiest way to ensure your information is received by the Bi-Borough Childcare and Early Education Service.
If your child is eligible, they will receive their ticket on time for them to start on their due date (the term after they turn 2 years old).
If you have any difficulty completing the form, you can get help from your local children's centre. Alternatively, you can get assistance from a member of the Early Years team by emailing [email protected] or by calling 07971 625922 or 07814 804262.
The details you provide will be used to check if your child is eligible for a free place.
It can take a few weeks to process applications provided the form is completed correctly. If your application has been successful, you will receive a letter in a blue envelope addressed to your child including a ticket. This ticket can be taken to your chosen nursery or childminder to receive the free hours.