Statistics published by the Department for Education show that, based on local authority data, an estimated 202,783 children were in a 30 hours place between September and December 2017.
It is the first time a figure for free childcare take-up has been published, with previous data only revealing the number of eligibility codes that had been issued and how many had been validated.
The DfE said latest data from councils shows that a total of 224,885 eligibility codes were issued to parents for the autumn term, of which 210,863 (94 per cent) were validated.
The total number of children in a 30 hours place is equal to 90 per cent of the total number of codes issued.
Register Now to Continue Reading
Thank you for visiting Children & Young People Now and making use of our archive of more than 60,000 expert features, topics hubs, case studies and policy updates. Why not register today and enjoy the following great benefits:
What's Included
-
Free access to 4 subscriber-only articles per month
-
Email newsletter providing advice and guidance across the sector
Already have an account? Sign in here
