free nursery education from the age of two...who has managed to bag a place for their kid??

[ahfeckit]

I heard news of this from a relative that you can put your kid into nursery from the age of 2. Just wondering how you go about this?

where abouts can you do it and are there only certain nurseries?

TIA.

has it started yet?

I enjoy being with my children (kid is a baby goat)

Two is far too young for my boys to have been in nursery

Some Surestart/Children's Centres do but think it is still very limited.

Worcestershire are introducing it through the Childrens Centres

ah ok, thanks. it's ashame it isn't widespread across the UK, it would be great to have DS in nursery for a few mornings a week to begin with. i know there are alot of mixed views on this. it's just like being at a play group, but without mum being around.

I personally feel it's a bit unfair that you (meant in general terms) have to be less priveleged for someone's child to be awarded a place. it should be optional for all two year olds, not just those from poor backgrounds.

Nottm City Council is introducing a pilot for this but you do need to be registered for certain benefits.

I'm with you ahfeckit, I had to go back to work and a few hours free childcare for my 2 year olds would've been appreciated. With 2 in nursery for 3 days a week it cost me more than £11,000 per annum in fees.

baffledmum that is shocking, 11k. the govt need to do something to help, but also in general just allow all two year olds the same education regardless of family income.it really gets me annoyed.

i'm really deflated now to know ds won't be starting free nursery ed until he turns 3.... i imagine there are many others who feel the same too.

It isn't that long since the age was changed to 3 for free nursery hours and I think the proposal is to increase that to 15 hours a week soon(some areas already pilot this, before looking at lowering the qualifying age again. There is arguably less benefit educationally and socially for 2 year old than a 3-4 years old .