Frequently Asked Questions
What funded childcare is available at Hove Village Nurseries?
We offer all government-funded childcare entitlements that we are registered to provide, including:
- 15 hours funded childcare for eligible children
- 30 hours funded childcare for eligible working families
- Funding for eligible children from 9 months old
For the latest eligibility information and how to apply, please visit:
www.childcarechoices.gov.uk and www.beststartinlife.gov.uk
Are funded childcare hours really free?
Yes. Government-funded childcare hours are provided completely free of charge.
If your child attends only funded hours, you will not be charged for those hours. Your invoice will clearly show funded hours at £0.00.
How are funded hours offered?
Funded hours can be taken during our available sessions and are stretched across the number of weeks we are open each year. This means that 15 hours eligibility becomes 11.4 hours each week, and 30 hours eligibility becomes 22.8 hours each week.
Can I access only my funded hours without paying for additional sessions?
Yes.
Parents can access their child’s funded entitlement without being required to purchase additional hours, sessions, meals, activities or services.
What are the nursery’s opening hours?
Our opening days and hours are available on our fees page here.
What charges may apply in addition to funded hours?
While funded childcare hours are free, parents may choose to purchase additional services, including:
- Extra childcare hours
- Meals and snacks
- Consumables (such as nappies, wipes or sun cream where applicable)
- Optional enrichment activities or specialist sessions
- Trips and special events
All charges are clearly listed in our current Fee Sheet.
Are meals and snacks compulsory?
No.
Food charges are voluntary. Families who choose not to purchase nursery meals will be offered a reasonable alternative in line with statutory guidance.
Please speak to your Nursery Manager to discuss the options available.
What happens if I do not want to pay for consumables?
Consumable charges are voluntary.
Parents may be able to provide their own items, such as nappies, wipes or sun cream, or discuss alternative arrangements with the nursery.
Will I receive a breakdown of any charges?
Yes.
Any additional charges will be clearly itemised and separated on invoices so you can see:
- Funded hours (£0.00)
- Additional childcare hours
- Meals and snacks
- Consumables
- Optional activities
- Any discounts applied
Are there any registration fees?
Registration fees only apply where permitted and relate solely to non-funded childcare sessions taken in addition to funded hours.
Details of any registration fee, including the amount and conditions, will be provided before you accept a place.
Is there a deposit to secure a place?
Some places may require a refundable deposit.
If a deposit applies, we will clearly explain:
- The amount payable
- When it will be refunded
- The circumstances under which it may be retained
- How deposits are handled for fully funded places
Full details are available on our Fee Sheet.
Do I have to attend a minimum number of days?
No child will be prevented from accessing their funded entitlement because of unnecessary attendance requirements.
Any session patterns or minimum attendance arrangements will be explained clearly before enrolment.
What support is available for childcare costs beyond funded hours?
You may be eligible for additional government support, including:
- Tax-Free Childcare
- Universal Credit Childcare Support
- Additional funded childcare entitlements
Visit:
www.childcarechoices.gov.uk
for further information.
How will my invoice show funded childcare?
Our invoices clearly separate:
- Government-funded hours (£0.00)
- Additional paid childcare hours
- Meals and snacks
- Consumables
- Optional activities and services
This ensures parents can clearly see what is funded and what they are choosing to pay for.
Where can I view nursery fees?
Our current fees, session information and charges are available:
- On our website
- From the nursery directly
- Within our enrolment pack
We are committed to providing clear and transparent fee information at all times.
Who can I contact if I have questions about funding or fees?
Please speak to our Admissions Manager or your Nursery Manager for further information. Our details can be found here.
We will be happy to explain:
- Funding eligibility
- Session options
- Charges and invoices
- Deposits and registration fees
- Government childcare support available to your family
Please view our nursery policies, including our Admissions Policy and Government Funding Policy here.
