Sheffield childcare funded hours explained
Local guidance for parents in Sheffield, Yorkshire & Humber. Find typical costs, local contacts, and area-specific advice for childcare funding.
Welcome to our Sheffield guide for childcare funding. As one of Yorkshire & Humber's major cities with a population of 584,000, Sheffield offers a range of childcare options for working families.
Typical hourly rates in Sheffield range from £4.50-£6.50, though this can vary significantly between providers and areas within the city. The good news is that government funding can significantly reduce these costs for eligible families.
This guide covers everything you need to know about accessing funded childcare hours in Sheffield, including local contacts, typical costs, and how to apply.
Quick facts about Sheffield
- •Sheffield City Council coordinates funded early years places with nurseries, preschools, and childminders across the city
- •You can only use your funded hours at an Ofsted-registered provider that has joined the scheme
- •Funded places can be in short supply for the youngest children (under 2s) - apply early and consider joining multiple waiting lists
- •You can use your hours across two providers per day, for example a nursery and a childminder
- •From 1 September 2025, eligible working parents with children aged 9 months up to school age can get up to 30 hours a week
Helpful local links
Official resources and contacts for Sheffield families
Sheffield City Council – Early education and childcare
Local authority childcare support and information
Visit websiteKey information
Local details
- • Average rates: £4.50-£6.50
- • Population: 584,000
- • Region: Yorkshire & Humber