Childcare

Finding childcare for your family can feel like a big decision, but we’re here to support you every step of the way. On our childcare page, you’ll find friendly, easy-to-understand information to help you explore your options, from where to search for childcare locally to what to think about when choosing the right childcare provider for your child. You can use our childcare directory to find providers near you, search via postcode or type of childcare and see options on a map, making it simpler to find care that fits your needs.

We also share helpful guidance on funding and support with childcare costs, including information about free childcare for eligible families. If you’re unsure or need a bit more help, our team is always here to talk things through with you. Everything we do is part of our “Best Start in Life” approach, supporting families from pregnancy through to starting school, so every child in Newcastle can grow, learn and thrive with the right support around them.

The Early Years Team

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Childcare directory

The link below will take you to our childcare search where you can:

Find the nearest childcare to you
View childcare providers on a map

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Choosing childcare

Choosing childcare for your family is a really personal choice. There is lots to think about, like where the childcare provider is, and the type of provider that is right for you. We have lots of information to help you with your choice.

Getting ready for Childcare

Starting childcare can be a big step in your child's life. Click here to find out more on help with potty training, sleep, routines and more.

My child has SEND - View our Local Offer here

2 Year old early learning

15 hours childcare for families receiving some additional forms of government support.

Working parent entitlement

30 Hours childcare for working parents with children aged 9 months to reception.

3 to 4 Year old universal offer

15 hours childcare for all 3 and 4 year olds.

What funding am I entitled to?

Support

Information on tax free childcare and other forms of support, such as universal credit. For other support click here.

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Charging information

Find out what you can and cannot be charged for when accessing your child's funded place.

School Aged Childcare

School‑age childcare refers to care for primary school age children, out of school hours, including before‑school clubs, free breakfast clubs, after‑school clubs, wraparound care and holiday provision.

FAQs

Our Best Start in Life Plan

Every child in Newcastle deserves the best possible start in life. The early years – from pregnancy to starting school – are a vital time for health, learning and happiness. When families get the right support early, children are more likely to thrive.

Find out more

Funded childcare

What you are entitled to is expanding. Depending on your circumstances you may be eligible for some free childcare when your child is two or three years old.

Find out more about our Best Start in Life Plan

Our Best Start in Life Plan