Early education and childcare services

Early education and childcare services provide high‑quality learning and care for young children, helping them develop, thrive and prepare for school.

Last updated: 13th January

Finding childcare

Search for childcare services

Find local nurseries, childminders and early years settings.

Visit Staffordshire Connects.

Check quality ratings

All registered childcare providers are inspected by Ofsted. 

Find inspection reports on Ofsted’s website.

Help with childcare costs

Funded childcare places

Learn about free childcare for 2, 3 and 4-year-olds. 

Visit Childcare Choices

Benefits calculator

Check what financial support you may be entitled to. 

Use Staffordshire’s benefits calculator

Supporting your child's development

Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS)

All early years providers follow the EYFS to support learning and development.

Learn more on GOV.UK.

Progress check at age 2

Your Health Visitor and childcare provider will check your child’s development.

Find out more on GOV.UK.

School readiness

Tips to help your child become more independent and ready for school.

Visit Staffordshire Connects.

Starting school

Children must start school by age 5. Most begin in the September before they turn 4. 

Apply for a school place

You'll need to apply up to a year in advance. 

Find out how to apply

Need more help?

Speak to your Health Visitor, childcare provider or local Family Hub. You can also explore more services on Staffordshire Connects.