Here you will find out about childcare funding to support you whilst you're in education.
Care To Learn - at school or sixth form
If you are a young parent who wants to continue with your education or training, take a look at Care To Learn. The scheme pays for childcare costs whilst you study if under 20 at the start of your course.
What is it?
Up to £180 per week (or £195 if you live in London) to help with the cost of registered childcare, and also with the cost of taking your child to their childcare provider
Childcare payments go directly to the childcare provider, travel payments go directly to your school or college.
Is it for me?
Care to Learn provides funding for childcare to help young parents (under the age of 20) continue at school or in further education after the birth of a child.
You need to apply before the start of your course or as soon as possible after you start.
How do I find out more information?
To find out about eligibility and how to apply visit Care to Learn (GOV.UK) (opens in new tab)
Go to Apply for Care to Learn (Student Bursery Support Service - (GOV.UK)
Learner Support - in further education
What is it?
Your learning provider (for example, a college) decides how much you get.
The money can help pay for things like:
- accommodation and travel
- course materials and equipment
- childcare with an Ofsted registered childcare provider
Is it for me?
If you’re aged 19 or over, on a further education course and facing financial hardship
How do I find out more information?
Find out more information at Learner Support (GOV.UK)
Childcare Grant - in full-time higher education
What is it?
You can get 85% of your childcare costs or a fixed maximum amount, whichever is less.
For the 2025 to 2026 academic year the maximum you can get is:
- up to £199.62 a week for 1 child
- up to £342.24 a week for 2 or more children
Example, if your childcare cost for 1 child is £100 a week you'll get £85 - this is 85% of your costs.
If your childcare for 1 child costs £230 a week, you'll get £193.62. This is because 85% of your costs is £195.50, which is above the maximum weekly amount.
You have to pay any remaining costs.
Is it for me?
Parents in full-time higher education with children under 15, or 17 with special education needs.
Find the full eligibilty criteria at Childcare Grant: Eligibility (GOV.UK)
How do I find out more information?
Find out more, including how to apply by visiting Childcare Grant (GOV.UK)