Early Years Education and Childcare, Wraparound Childcare and Parent and Toddler groups

This section provides information on a wide range of early years education & childcare, from Childminders to Holiday Schemes. You'll be able to search for the type of care that suits your needs. These providers are registered and inspected by Ofsted and work to set regulations and guidance.

“Choosing childcare is a hugely important decision for the whole family and can be daunting. The right childcare provider will help your child to learn, have fun and make new friends, as well as meeting all their day-to-day needs”.

“However, high-quality childcare not only benefits children, helping to give them the best start in life, it provides peace of mind. It means that you can concentrate on work or your studies knowing your child is safe and being well looked after.” (Choosing great childcare | PACEY)

If you are a family on a low income you could be entitled to free early education and childcare for your 2 year old you can even apply online.  For more information on the Free Nursery Education visit: https://www.thurrock.gov.uk/childcare

All children three-year old children can gain 15 hours funded and flexible early education and childcare.

For working parents of three and four year-olds, you may be eligible for to 30 hours of funded early education and childcare. For help with childcare and for information on the '30 Hours Free Childcare and Tax Free Childcare' visit: https://www.childcarechoices.gov.uk/ 

Funded Early Years Education and Childcare Support is Increasing !

Starting from April 2024, existing childcare support will be expanded in phases. By September 2025, most working families with children under the age of 5 will be entitled to 30 hours of childcare support.

From April 2024, eligible working parents of 2-year-olds will be able to access 15 hours childcare support.

From September 2024, 15 hours childcare support will be extended to eligible working parents of children from the age of 9 months to 3-year-olds.

From September 2025, eligible working parents of children under the age of 5 will be entitled to 30 hours of childcare a week

Wraparound Childcare.

For all primary aged children from reception to year six, from September 2024, you can expect to see an increase in the number of wraparound childcare places available across Thurrock.

Do you have young children or are you expecting a baby, why not check out your local Children's Centres & Parent and Toddler Groups visit: http://www.askthurrock.org.uk/kb5/thurrock/fis/family.page?familychannel=2684