Overview

• The pilot program will begin on Tuesday, offering 30 minutes of free morning childcare at 750 schools in England until July.
• The scheme is backed by £7 million in initial funding, with over £30 million allocated for the next fiscal year and a £315 million commitment by 2028-29.
• Ministers project the program will save parents £450 annually and provide 95 additional childcare hours per child each year.
• School leaders and unions have expressed concerns that the funding may not cover costs, urging a review before a nationwide rollout.
• The government has assured that funding levels will be evaluated during the trial, which includes mainstream and alternative provision schools.