- Introduction
-
Who can get funded childcare
- Early Learning for 2 year olds (previously known as FEET)
- Using your funded childcare hours
- Funded childcare declaration form
What is Early Learning for 2 year olds (previously known as FEET)?
Early Learning for 2 year olds gives your child up to 15 hours a week of funded childcare and early education during term time.
This helps them learn, play and get ready for school.
Find out about using your funded hours.
Who can get Early Learning for 2 year olds
You might be able to get funding if:
- you get certain benefits or government support
- your child gets Disability Living Allowance or has an Education, Health and Care (EHC) plan
- you’ve moved to the UK and can’t claim benefits
- your child is looked after by Surrey County Council or has left care
Getting Early Learning for 2 year olds funding won't affect your benefits. If you qualify, the funding stays in place even if your situation changes.
When your child turns 3, they'll automatically gets 15 hours of funded childcare. There is no gap in support.
When to apply
You can apply for funding in the funded period your child turns 2.
| Child turns 2 | Apply from | Funding starts |
|---|---|---|
| 1 April to 31 August | April | September |
| 1 September to 31 December | September | January |
| 1 January to 31 March | January | April |
If your childcare provider is outside Surrey, apply through their local council.
How to apply
The quickest way to apply for Early Learning for 2 year olds is online on the parent portal.
- Create a Surrey account
Register and log in to apply, get updates, check messages and update your details. - Submit your application
We'll check if you qualify using government records. - Get your ID number
If you qualify, share your ID number with your childcare provider so they can claim the funding.
Apply online for Early Learning for 2 year olds
See our privacy notice for how we use, share and store your data.
Only use the parent portal to apply for 15 hours of funded childcare for 2-year-olds who get extra support.
What you'll need
- your and your child's full details (name, address, contact)
- your National Insurance Number or National Asylum Seeker Number
- the reason you qualify
- your details if you're helping someone apply
Unable to apply online?
If you need help applying or want a paper form:
- Call: 0300 200 1004
- Email: fundedearlyeducation@surreycc.gov.uk
- Print a paper application form (PDF) and post it to the address on the form
After you apply
If you qualify, use the Childcare finder to find a provider offering Early Learning for 2 year olds.
Complete a declaration form at your provider each funded period
If you don't qualify for Early Learning for 2 year olds see Best Start in Life for other options.
Other types of funded childcare
Only use the parent portal to apply for 15 hours of funded childcare for 2-year-olds who get extra support.
See Who can get funded childcare for other types how to apply for these.
Questions or concerns?
We know choosing childcare is a big decision. It’s normal to have questions or worries. Find answers to common questions and concerns about early education.