Early years pupil premium

The early years pupil premium is additional funding from the government for early years settings. This is to improve the education they provide for disadvantaged three and four year olds. Ofsted requires evidence of the impact of this funding, showing that the gap in children’s outcomes has narrowed.

The money is used to fund valuable support in schools and childcare settings to enrich your child's education. Through the grant, your child will:

  • benefit from extra resources and equipment suited to their needs
  • enjoy a range of new play, learning and activities
  • be prepared for starting school

Early years providers are ultimately responsible for finding eligible children. They should speak to parents to find out who is eligible. They should encourage those that may be eligible to register. This is so that the maximum amount of funding can reach Barnsley providers.

Apply for the premium

You can apply for the Early Years Pupil Premium using our online form below. You must be receiving one of the following benefits before you can apply for the premium:

  • Income Support
  • Income Based Job Seekers Allowance
  • Income Related Employment and Support Allowance
  • Child Tax Credit (providing you're not also entitled to Working Tax Credit and have an annual gross income of no more than £16,190)
  • Working Tax Credit run-on, paid for four weeks after you stop qualifying for Working Tax Credit
  • Support under Part VI of the Immigration and Asylum Act 1999
  • the guaranteed element of State Pension Credit

or if your child:

  • has been looked after by the council in care for at least one day
  • has been adopted from care
  • has left care through special guardianship
  • is subject to a child arrangement order

What happens next

If your child qualifies for the premium, it will be paid directly to your child's school or childcare provider.