The Secretary of State for Education, Nadhim Zahawi, has written a letter to local chief executives and directors of children’s services. The letter confirms that all school-aged children and young people who arrive from Ukraine will have the right to access suitable education and childcare whilst in the UK.

The Secretary of State for Education has reminded local authorities, that they are able to use flexibilities to admit above the published admission number and exceed the infant class size limit, as well as using the in-year Fair Access Protocol to ensure all school-aged children can access suitable education. EYFS rations must be adhered to in nursery and reception classes.

The Department for Levelling Up, Housing and Communities (DLUHC) has published:

• guidance for local authorities on the Homes for Ukraine scheme
• a frequently asked questions resource
• a welcome pack for families arriving in the UK from Ukraine

They have also updated the guidance on school access rights for pupils from overseas and are adding some questions and answers to DLUHC’s Homes for Ukraine frequently asked questions page.

FAQ's for Ukrainian School admissions

Early years places for children from the Ukraine

If you have queries about early years places for children from the Ukraine, please share the details with your key contact who can support you.

For support in finding places, families or providers can ring 01296 38 7000/7111 or email the Early Years Service at brokerage@buckinghamshire.gov.uk.

Alternatively, families can complete this online form to ask for help: Apply for some help finding childcare

Important - For children coming from the Ukraine, please add the code UKR to the comments box under the child’s name on the form.

Two year old funded children

If the child is 2 the family are required to get a funding code as per the process for all 2 year old funded children. Families can get their code by applying online 2 year old Early Years Education online application or by ringing the team on 01296 38 7000/7111 and they support in completing the form over the phone.

If the child is 3 or 4 years old they will receive up to 15 hours of free education entitlement. If the parents of 3 and 4 year olds are working, they may qualify for the extended entitlement of up to 30 hours. Providers can give the family a funding form to complete so that they can receive a funded place, however you may need to support the family to complete the form.