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Early Years Expansion Grant 2025-2026

Rationale for Distribution

Following the notification of the Early Years Expansion Grant for the 2025-2026 period, Lewisham has been allocated a total of £453,321. To maximise the impact of this funding and address local needs, we have developed the rationale outlined below.

Focus AreaLewisham 2s Graphics

The grant will prioritise Lewisham 2’s provision, which has experienced a significant drop in uptake. This decline is primarily due to families utilising the ‘working parents offer’ requiring extended paid hours, which inadvertently disadvantages families seeking only a 15-hour place. 

Proposed Distribution Approach

1. Promotion

To raise awareness of Lewisham 2’s entitlement and encourage uptake, £3,321. will be allocated to promotional activities. This will include creating and distributing external banners and promotional materials to settings who would like them, and in addition  being  strategically placed at:

  • Libraries
  • Jobcentre Plus (JCP)
  • Social housing contact points
  • GP surgeries
  • Lewisham Hospital children's A&E
  • Kaleidoscope
  • Family Information Service (FIS) outreach events

2. Recognition

Acknowledging the efforts of providers who have consistently offered 4 or more Lewisham 2’s places over the past three terms is key to ensuring continuity. £100,000 of the funding will be allocated to these providers as recognition and encouragement to maintain and expand their offering.

3. Expansion

To secure 350 additional places for Lewisham 2’s children, we will invite providers to either:

  • Increase the number of spaces they currently offer
  • Begin offering spaces for Lewisham 2’s if not already doing so

Providers will be required to submit Expressions of Interest (EOIs), which will be evaluated based on:

  • Quality (Ofsted outcomes)
  • Existing supply and demand

Each additional place secured will receive a one-off payment of £1,000. This ensures providers can cover potential losses and prevents families from being charged unaffordable deposits.

Next Steps

Providers will be asked to complete a form expressing their interest, accessible via the link below:
Expression of Interest Form

Once submissions are reviewed, we will determine the number of new places that can be created in areas with the greatest need. Please note that all funds must be distributed to settings by the end of August 2025.

 All this information is available in this flyer Early Years Expansion Grant 2025-2026