PARLIAMENTARY WRITTEN QUESTION
(18 May 2026)

To ask the Secretary of State for Education, what assessment she has made of the potential impact of children who turn nine months old shortly after the term-time eligibility deadline for 30-hour free childcare on families; how many young children turned nine-months of age within one month after this deadline in March 2026; and whether she is considering the potential merits of reviewing this issue as part of the proposed reform to childcare.

Asked by:
Monica Harding (Liberal Democrat)

The government’s Plan for Change sets out a commitment to give children the best start in life, breaking the link between background and opportunity.

Children become eligible for an early education and childcare place from 1 September, 1 January or 1 April, the term following them reaching nine months old.

Termly deadlines enable local authorities and childcare providers to better plan and ensure sufficient early years places are available, as there are clear periods for when children are likely to enter into a place.

The department does not hold data on the number of children who turned nine-months of age within one month after this deadline in March 2026.

We have committed to a Childcare and Early Education Review which will look at how to improve access to early education and care, making the system simpler for families and delivering a coherent offer.

Answered by:
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