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DfE launches consultation on 30-hour free childcare entitlement


On 3 April 2016, the Department for Education (DfE) published a consultation on the 30-hour free childcare entitlement contained in the Childcare Act 2016.

The Childcare Bill 2015-16 was enacted to become the Childcare Act 2016 on 12 March 2016. Section 1 of the Act, which is not yet in force, imposes a duty on the Secretary of State to ensure that childcare is available free of charge for qualifying children of working parents for 30 hours in each of 38 weeks in any year.

The consultation seeks views on some of the key elements of the operation and delivery of the 30-hour extended free entitlement before section 1 of the Act comes into force, including how the entitlement will be delivered, and how it will meet and be responsive to the needs of working parents.

The DfE wishes to hear views on issues including:

  • Provision for children with special education needs and disabilities.

  • The role and responsibilities of local authorities.

  • Information about childcare for parents.

The consultation will run until 6 June 2016. Responses should be submitted online at:

www.consult.education.gov.uk/early-years-funding/childcare-free-entitlement


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