Two Year Pilot Introduction

Kent was invited by the Department for Children, Schools and Families (DCSF) to participate in the second wave of the Two year-old pilot that was announced in the Children’s Plan.

The pilot has a strong focus on making a difference for eligible two year-olds and their families.
Kent has targets to deliver 430 places for two year olds in 2009-10 and in 2010-11.

The Offer
In Kent all families involved in the pilot will be offered up to 15 hours of good quality early years education/childcare and an offer of family support. Participating providers of early years education/childcare will receive £4.85 per hour for all eligible children receiving childcare. Eligible children will be able to access the offer from the term after their 2nd birthday and progress smoothly into the free entitlement for three year olds.

Why is the government piloting this?

There is clear evidence from research that good quality part time early learning and childcare, especially for these eligible two year olds, helps cognitive and early language development. It also helps with social, emotional and physical development.