Free tool
Nursery Fee Calculator
Estimate your childcare costs and see how much you could save with government funding schemes.
Select your child's current or expected starting age
Nursery costs vary significantly by region
How many days will your child attend?
0days/week
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Your Results
Fill in the form to see your estimated nursery costs and potential savings.
UK Funding Schemes
- ✓30 Hours (Working Parents): From 9 months to 4 years old
- ✓15 Hours Universal: Free for all 3-4 year olds
- ✓15 Hours (Extra Support): For 2-3 year olds with additional needs
- ✓Tax-Free Childcare: Government tops up 20% of your costs (up to £2,000/year)
All funded hours are for 38 weeks (term time) but can be stretched over more weeks at a reduced weekly rate.
Learn more on GOV.UK →Additional Costs
Although the funded hours are free, nurseries may charge for:
- •Meals: You can provide your own food instead
- •Nappies: You can bring your own nappies instead
- •Additional hours: Any hours beyond your funded entitlement
- •Activities & trips: Optional extras like outings
If you don't want to pay for these extras, your provider should agree to an alternative arrangement. You can still get free childcare if you don't pay for any extra costs.
Tips to Reduce Costs
- •Apply for Tax-Free Childcare even if getting free hours
- •Stretch funding over more weeks to cover holidays
- •Ask about sibling discounts at your chosen nursery
- •Bring your own food/nappies to avoid extra charges
Ready to find the perfect nursery for your family?
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