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What is Care to Learn?
Care to Learn is a government initiative that gives financial support to teenage parents who want to continue their education, or who are returning to education and need help with the costs of their childcare.
Who can apply for Care to Learn?
Care to Learn is available to:
- young parents under the age of 20 (if you are 20 or over contact Next Step on 0800 100 900)
- either the child’s mother or father, providing the other parent is not able to provide childcare (e.g. if they are working) or claiming Child Tax Credit
To receive Care to Learn you must have started, or be considering starting, learning that has public funding. This includes:
- courses in sixth forms, colleges, sixth form colleges, and other learning providers
- Foundation Learning course
- Apprenticeships and vocational qualifications
You can’t receive Care to Learn if you wish to study at university or a higher education course.
What childcare can I choose?
The initiative helps with the costs of childcare provision from providers:
- on the Ofsted Early Years Register
- on the compulsory or voluntary part of the Ofsted General Childcare Register
- offered by schools such as breakfast and after school clubs
whatever registered childcare you use, such as:
- childminders
- day nurseries
- playgroups
- out of school clubs and more
How much will I receive and what for?
You can receive up to £160 (£175 in London) per week, per child and it is paid directly to the childcare provider. This is to cover the cost of:
- childcare while you learn, study or are on a placement
- additional childcare fees during holidays
- travel, for taking your child to a childcare provider
Help lines
- Learner Support Helpline - 0800 121 8989
- Connexions Direct - 080 800 13219, Text: 07766 4 13 2 19, Textphone: 08000 968 336
- Next Step - 0800 100 900
Useful websites
Daycare Trust
Advice and information on high quality childcare at affordable prices.
Directgov – Care to Learn
Request an application pack and find out further information on Care to Learn.
Young People’s Learning Agency
Additional information on Care to Learn.
Childcare Finder
Find childcare in England.
Essex Life
Search ‘Family Life’ for childcare provision within Essex.
Last updated: 08/11/12
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