The States funded pre-school programme – which gives children 15 hours of early years education a week, during the year before they start school – is being extended to include childminders.
Only registered childminders who are signed up to offer Preschool Education Funding (PSEF) are included, and they must meet the same requirements alongside preschools and day nurseries.
The scheme first launched in 2017, offering up to 15 hours of States funded preschool education each week, during school term times in the year before a child starts school, in approved settings.
From September that will include childminders, which will give parents more options to choose between, said Ruth Sharp, Head of the Early Years team.
“Research consistently reveals the positive impact high-quality preschool provision can have on children’s long-term development and learning,” she said.
“Childminders provide early childhood education and care in a smaller setting, which can be flexible and can offer an alternative option for parents and carers.”
Funding for the States-funded 15 hours per week preschool education with a registered childminder will start from the beginning of the Autumn 2025 Term.
Parents and carers who are eligible to claim the 15 hours should contact their registered childminder to confirm if they are offering the PSEF.
With childminders now included in the 15-hours funded pre-school provision, parents and carers can also choose to split the 15 hours per week across two providers.