Free childcare for three year olds - query

[hertsmummy14]

The nursery we plan to send our DS to don't take part in the free 15 hours per week scheme. Is it possible to "save" his entitlement up and use it to pay for care during the school holidays?

Not in my area. Ask your local authority. There might be some people that spread the entitlement over 52 weeks who could offer some care in the holidays, or a setting that has different term dates.

Unusual for them to not take part. I know the rate they get isn't always as much as they charge, but they run the risk of loosing a lot of children esp when its increased to 30 hours a week.
Remember childminders can also offer the funding.

The funding is for term time only (as its free education), but some providers will stretch it over the whole year.

No, not in my area either.

Thanks all!! Yeah it's a shame the nursery we have chosen doesn't take them but I'm thinking I can maybe send DS to a nursery that does take them for one day per week.

Some nurseries (including the one I work in) do not offer a single day, or single session, due to difficulties settling children in as we feel it doesn't support the child to make secure relationships.

However, some settings do so you'll just have to ask around.