From September 2025, working parents in England can access up to 30 hours of free childcare per week for children aged from 9 months (at Poplars Blossoms Nursery) to 5 years old (at The Willows Preschool). This is a welcome change for families — easing the cost of childcare and supporting children’s early learning and development during these crucial years.
At The Willows Preschool, we’re proud to offer this funded childcare for families in Sherwood and the surrounding areas. Our setting is rooted in a passion for child-led learning, outdoor discovery, and ecological awareness, giving every child the space and support to grow confidently at their own pace.
👶 Who is eligible?
You may be eligible if:
- You and your partner (if applicable) are working, including self-employed
- Each earns at least the National Minimum Wage for 16 hours a week
- Neither earns more than £100,000 annually
🕒 How do the hours work?
- Families can claim up to 30 hours per week during term time (38 weeks)
- Or stretch fewer hours across the full year — which we offer at The Willows for added flexibility
- These funded hours can be used around your needs — speak to our team about your preferred pattern
- A code from the government is required, and it needs to be renewed every 3 months
More details and FAQs:
👉 childcarechoices.gov.uk
🌿 Why choose The Willows Preschool?
At The Willows, learning happens naturally — through play, exploration, and meaningful experiences shaped by each child’s interests. As part of the wider Poplars Approach, our preschool nurtures children aged 3–5 with a curriculum that blends child-led learning, purposeful play, and a deep connection to nature.
Our children enjoy:
- Forest School sessions that encourage risk-taking, confidence, and ecological awareness
- Hands-on learning through real-life experiences — from building dens to planting seeds
- A curriculum that balances literacy, mathematics, science, and creative arts through curiosity and discovery
- Supportive relationships with passionate educators who value every child as an individual
- A strong foundation in independence, resilience, and social-emotional learning
We believe that play is the path to deep and lasting understanding. Whether your child is investigating minibeasts, expressing themselves through art, or making new friendships, they are learning in meaningful ways every day.
📅 Now enrolling for September 2025
We are now welcoming registrations for September 2025. With limited funded places available and growing interest in our Forest School-inspired approach, we recommend contacting us early to secure your child’s place.
📞 Ready to find out more?
We’d love to show you around. Contact The Willows Preschool today to:
✔ Learn how the 30 hours can work for your family
✔ Arrange a visit to see our nature-rich setting
✔ Secure your child’s place for September
👉 Enquire Now
📞 Call: 0115 967 6051
