Early Years & Childcare Workforce Bursary Offer Now Open!

For Buckinghamshire Early Years Registered Settings and Schools

We are pleased to offer qualification bursaries once again for eligible courses undertaken between April 2026 and March 2027

How to apply

Request an application form by sending an email to eycpd@buckinghamshire.gov.uk from an Ofsted registered email address to apply for a maximum of two staff members. Completed application forms must be returned no later than Friday 10^th July 2026.

Each application will be carefully reviewed to ensure a fair distribution of bursary awards to as many individuals as possible working within Buckinghamshire Early Years Settings and Schools.

Please note that the deadline may be brought forward should the available funds be fully allocated.

Who can apply

Buckinghamshire Ofsted registered early years and childcare settings, schools with new or existing staff members, childminders and individuals enrolled to a full and relevant qualification course with a secure placement are invited to participate in this offer via their employer or placement setting. 

Course Eligibility

Courses that meet the Early Years Educator (EYE) standards and are recognised by the Department for Education (DfE) as full and relevant, supporting Ofsted ratio requirements.

To find our more visit Essential Qualification Guidance for joining the Early Years and Childcare Workforce | Early Years

Available Bursaries

• Diploma bursary

Buckinghamshire registered settings can apply for up to two staff members to complete Level 2 and Level 3 diplomas that meet the new Early Years Qualification Requirements and Standards effective from January 2026.

• Degree bursary

While the primary focus is on supporting Level 2 and 3 qualifications, we will also consider one application for a degree bursary from individual pursuing a Level 6 qualification to support the quality improvement element.

How much to expect

For each learner, a successful application can receive a bursary award to cover up to 80% of the annual course fee, for payment between 1st April 2026 and 31st March 2027. Eligible settings located within a Opportunity Bucks ward can receive up to a 95% bursary award.

Qualifications not supported by this offer

Apprenticeships

Apprenticeship training, funded qualifications offered by the either the Department for Education (DfE) or private training companies that support eligible adults to access free Level 3 qualifications will not be supported by this offer.

Free Level 3 Qualifications 

If you're looking for free childcare Level 3 qualifications, the government provides a range of options for adults aged 19 and over. These qualifications can help improve job prospects and earning potential. You can find more information and apply for these courses through the Free Courses for Jobs initiative.