Showcase Magazine Summer 2025 - Flipbook - Page 2
Summer 2025
NURSERY NEWS
Government Expands Free Childcare, But Concerns Grow Over
Costs and Availability
Working parents in England will soon benefit from an expansion of
free childcare, with 30 hours per week available to all eligible
families with children under five from September 2025. Currently,
parents can access 15 free hours for children aged nine months to
two years, and 30 hours for three- and four-year-olds, depending
on income and employment status. However, rising costs are
forcing some nurseries to consider leaving the scheme, sparking
fears of a potential shortage of places. Many providers also charge
additional fees for essentials such as meals and nappies, making it
difficult for some families to afford the