Stretched vs term-time childcare hours: worked examples
Understand the difference between term-time only funding (38 weeks) and stretched funding (up to 52 weeks) with real examples and practical advice.
If you qualify for 15 or 30 funded childcare hours in England, those hours are calculated on a school term-time basis: 38 weeks a year. But many nurseries and childminders offer to "stretch" your entitlement across the whole year instead. This doesn't give you extra hours overall — it just smooths them out so you get fewer each week but for more weeks.
How the standard (term-time) model works
- The funding is based on 30 hours a week × 38 weeks = 1,140 hours per year.
- For 15-hour entitlements it's 15 × 38 = 570 hours per year.
- Providers normally align this with school terms (roughly Sept–Dec, Jan–Mar, Apr–Jul).
- You don't get funded hours during school holidays unless your provider offers a stretched pattern.
Example
If you need childcare in August, you'd usually pay privately for those weeks.
How the stretched model works
- The same 1,140 hours per year can be divided across up to 52 weeks.
- That usually means around 22 hours per week all year instead of 30 during term time.
- For the 15-hour entitlement, that's about 11 hours per week all year.
- Your provider decides if they offer this model and what the weekly cap is.
Example
Some providers round this to fit their session lengths (e.g. 21h or 23h per week).
You still pay for anything above that stretched allowance.
Choosing the right model
Term-time model suits:
- • Parents who follow the school calendar
- • Teachers and education workers
- • Parents with school-aged children
- • Families who can arrange holiday cover
Stretched model suits:
- • Parents who work all year round
- • Families who need summer holiday cover
- • Parents who prefer consistent weekly hours
- • Those who can't arrange holiday childcare
Ask your provider which models they offer — they are not obliged to offer both.
Key things to know
- You cannot get more than 30 funded hours in any one week.
- Not all providers offer stretching; if you prefer it, shop around.
- Meals, nappies, trips, or extras may still be charged separately under either model.
- You must still apply for and reconfirm your eligibility code every 3 months if you're using the working parents' scheme.
Important
Practical examples
30 hours entitlement examples
| Model | Weekly hours | Weeks covered | Total hours |
|---|---|---|---|
| Term-time only | 30 hours | 38 weeks | 1,140 hours |
| Stretched (52 weeks) | 22 hours | 52 weeks | 1,144 hours |
| Stretched (48 weeks) | 24 hours | 48 weeks | 1,152 hours |
15 hours entitlement examples
| Model | Weekly hours | Weeks covered | Total hours |
|---|---|---|---|
| Term-time only | 15 hours | 38 weeks | 570 hours |
| Stretched (52 weeks) | 11 hours | 52 weeks | 572 hours |
| Stretched (48 weeks) | 12 hours | 48 weeks | 576 hours |
Making your choice
When deciding between term-time and stretched funding, consider:
- Your work pattern: Do you work all year round or follow school terms?
- Holiday arrangements: Can you arrange childcare during school holidays?
- Provider availability: Does your preferred provider offer both options?
- Cost implications: Will you need to pay for additional hours during holidays?
- Consistency: Do you prefer the same weekly hours all year round?
Provider flexibility
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Frequently asked questions
Disclaimer: This guide provides general information only. Always check the latest official government guidance and speak to your childcare provider for the most up-to-date information specific to your situation.
Official government resources: