If you’ve been searching online for “childcare near me” in South Norwood, there’s good news on the horizon. From September 2025, working parents of two-year-olds will be entitled to 30 hours of free childcare per week during term time—an offer that could make a huge difference for local families juggling careers and raising young children.
This new government initiative expands existing childcare support and offers more flexibility and affordability to parents. For families in South Norwood and surrounding areas, Stepping Out Pre School is ideally placed to help you make the most of it.
What’s Changing at a Preschool Near Me in September 2025?
Currently, 30 hours of free childcare are available for eligible working parents of three and four-year-olds. From September 2025, this will extend to two-year-olds whose parents meet the eligibility criteria.
That means your child can attend a preschool near you, like Stepping Out Pre School, five days a week from 9am to 3pm, fully funded during term time. It’s an excellent opportunity to access quality early education without the financial pressure.
Who Is Eligible?
To qualify for the 30 hours of free childcare near you, you must meet the following conditions:
- You (and your partner, if applicable) must be working and earning the equivalent of at least 16 hours a week at minimum wage.
- Your combined household income must be under £100,000 per year.
- You must live in England and have a child aged 2 years old by the start of the school term.
The government will offer this support for 38 weeks a year (during school term time), which adds up to 1,140 hours annually. Some childcare providers may offer “stretched” funding over more weeks, but Stepping Out Pre School aligns directly with the 9am–3pm term-time model.
How Stepping Out Pre School Supports You
If you’ve been comparing nurseries and searching for a preschool near me, Stepping Out offers an excellent alternative with a strong educational foundation. Our preschool day runs from 9am to 3pm, Monday to Friday—perfectly matching the new 30-hour funded entitlement.
This means:
- No additional top-up hours are needed
- No need to split care between different settings
- Your child gets a full, structured day of early years education
We focus on learning through play, outdoor exploration, and social development, all in a nurturing and inclusive environment. It’s everything you’d expect from a caring preschool, with the added benefit of being fully covered under the new funding scheme.
Ideal for Work-From-Home and Flexible Working Parents
For many South Norwood families, full-day nursery care isn’t always necessary or affordable. Parents working from home or in part-time/flexible roles often need structured childcare during core working hours—without paying for extended wraparound care.
Our 9am–3pm day is ideal for:
- Parents with hybrid or remote jobs
- Freelancers and self-employed workers
- Those needing a consistent daily routine for their child
You can focus on work knowing your child is in a safe, stimulating space with experienced early years professionals—and you won’t need to rush through long commutes for pick-up.
Searching for Childcare Near You?
If you’ve been typing “childcare near me” into search engines and feeling overwhelmed by nursery fees or long waiting lists, this funding change could open the door to more accessible, local options.
At Stepping Out Pre School in South Norwood, we’re here to support your child’s early development—and your family’s needs. Our team is already preparing for the September 2025 changes and we’ll be happy to answer your questions, explain eligibility, and guide you through the application process.
📞 Get in Touch Today – Ofsted Accredited Preschool Near You
Want to find out more about using your 30 hours of free childcare at Stepping Out Pre School?
📍Located in South Norwood
⏰ Open 9am–3pm (Term Time)
👶 Ages: 2–4 years
💬 Contact us to register your interest or arrange a visit
Whether you’re new to the area or finally ready to make the move from home care to a preschool setting, Stepping Out offers a local, trusted answer to your search for preschool near me.
Let us help you take the next step.