Spring wrapround childcare programme updates

Posted on 13 February 2025 in News and updates

Wraparound funding extended

In January the Department for Education announced the extension of the wraparound childcare funding to March 2026. This means any school or private provider who opens a new childcare provision before March 2026, could receive at least one year’s funding.

If you are already running childcare, but may not be offering the core offer, you can apply for funding to support the expansion of hours, for example if you already have a breakfast club, you could apply to open an after school provision, extend hours to meet full core offer, or expand the number of childcare places you can take.

Updated criteria

There have been some changes to what constitutes as wraparound childcare hours (i.e.: out of school). Previously the criteria required provision to be open 8am to 6pm, Monday to Friday (a total of 10 hours), however this has been reduced to 8am – 5.30pm where no demand for a 6pm close has been evidenced. The programme’s ambition is, however, for a provision to be open 8am – 6pm, Monday to Friday).

Criteria for wraparound is now as follows:

    • Provision must not start later than 8am or finish earlier than 5.30pm. For example a provision starting 8.15am to 6.15pm, or 7.15am to 5.15pm, would not meet the criteria.

Apply

The application process is simple and all details can be found on our website: Wraparound childcare – Information for providers – Information for childcare providers

Our Early Years and Childcare Advisors (EYCA) can give advice and support in setting up childcare. Before you complete an application please contact your EYCA to discuss the needs in your area.

Wraparound childcare funding briefing sessions

To find out more about the wraparound funding programme please attend one of our FREE briefing sessions. Sessions are for schools, private or independent providers and childminders.

This session will cover the following.

  • What is Wraparound Childcare?
  • What funding is available?
  • How can I apply?
  • Staffing ratios, qualifications, business management
  • What does a good childcare provision look like?
  • Open forum Question and Answer session

The sessions are open access and there is no need to book. You only need to attend one session as the content will be repeated. The open forum questions can cover any areas of wrapround you would like to discuss. Questions raised will be put on our website: Wraparound childcare funding- frequently asked questions – Information for childcare providers

Dates:

If you have any questions or would like further info please get in touch by email: educate.earlyyearswraparound-mailbox@devon.gov.uk