3 / 4 Year Old Early Education Funding

Early Education helps children to develop strong foundations for future learning. In nursery education children learn through hands on activities and play. Their learning is supported by staff who understand how children develop and learn.

Early Education takes place in:

  • Maintained Nursery Units/Schools
  • Private and Voluntary Day Nurseries
  • Playgroups
  • Starter Groups

All 3 & 4 year old children are entitled to a free part time Early Education place. For 3 year olds this entitlement starts from the term after the child's birthday.

The free entitlement is for 12 ½ hours per week for 38 weeks a year.

For more information please click on the link below or contact the Children's Information Service on 01942 486960.

Information for Nursery Providers

Nursery Education Grant can be claimed for 3 and 4 year old children who attend a playgroup, starter group or nursery unit/school in the private, voluntary, independent or maintained sector that is included in Wigan Council’s Early Education Provider Register.

Registered providers are required to claim the Grant each term on behalf of eligible children attending their setting.

For more information about the Register of Early Years Providers or about claiming funding contact the Sure Start Finance Team on 01942 486057.

Contact Details

Children's Information Service
Opening Hours 8:45am - 5:00pm, Monday to Friday
Phone Number 01942 486960
Sure Start Finance Team
Opening Hours 8.45am - 5.00pm, Monday to Friday
Phone Number 01942 486057
Address Wigan Council, Children And Young Peoples Services, Progress House, Westwood Park Drive, Wigan, WN3 4HH
Location