Commons Sense

House of Commons · Written Ministerial Statement

Early Years Funding 2026-27

15 December 2025 · Department for Education

Proposed by Olivia Bailey Lab Reading West and Mid Berkshire

Children & Families

Summarised by AI from the official record, so it can contain mistakes.

View on Parliament.uk

At a glance

Key points

  • The UK government is providing over 9.5 billion for early years entitlements in 2026-27.
  • Hourly funding rates are increasing by up to 4.95%, and the Early Years Pupil Premium rate is being boosted by 15%.
  • Local authorities must communicate funding rates by February 28th and pass on at least 97% of funding to providers from April 2026.

Issue summary

The statement discusses the UK government's commitment to early education funding in 2026-27.

Action requested

The government is providing over £9.5 billion for early years entitlements, increasing hourly funding rates by up to 4.95%, and boosting the Early Years Pupil Premium rate by 15%. Local authorities must communicate funding rates by February 28th and pass on at least 97% of funding to providers from April 2026.

Key facts

  • The government is providing over £9.5 billion for early years entitlements in 2026-27.
  • Hourly funding rates will increase by up to 4.95%, with the Early Years Pupil Premium rate rising to £1.15 per hour, equivalent to up to £655 per eligible child per year.
  • Local authorities must communicate funding rates by February 28th and pass on at least 97% of funding from April 2026.
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