The headline difference
Childcare funding is devolved, so the schemes you read about in the national press usually describe England. England has been rolling out funded hours for children from nine months old. In Wales the main scheme is the Childcare Offer for 3 and 4 year olds — up to 30 hours a week for 48 weeks a year — with Flying Start covering 2 year olds in eligible postcodes.
Two things are UK-wide and apply wherever you live: Tax-Free Childcare and childcare support through Universal Credit. Wales also runs the Curriculum for Wales rather than England's EYFS, and inspections are by Care Inspectorate Wales, not Ofsted.
What it means in practice
If your child is under three in Wales, budget for paid sessions unless you qualify for Flying Start. Families crossing the border for work should note that eligibility follows where the child lives, not where you work.
Related guides for parents
A typical day at our nursery
Drop-off, snack, outdoor time, meals and naps — hour by hour, in Welsh and English.
The Curiosity Approach and outdoor play
Why our rooms look the way they do, and how much time children spend outside in every weather.
How to choose a nursery in Cardiff or Newport
The questions to ask on a visit, what CIW reports tell you, and the signs of a settled room.
What a nursery day really costs and what's included
Meals, nappies, sun cream, trips and the £100 registration fee — the full picture before you compare quotes.
You may also want to see nursery fees and funded hours or read parents' most-asked questions.
Come and see us in person
Book a visit to our Cardiff or Newport nursery — we'll show you the rooms, the garden and the food.