Early years, childcare and extended services

Our aim is to provide the best start in life for every child across the borough by providing quality services and support to children, young people and their families.

We develop childcare, early education and extended services across the borough. Through our work with all of the borough's childcare providers and schools we aim to ensure all children living in the area get the best opportunities.

Please browse the menu to the left to find out more about how we can help you, whether you are a parent or carer, a provider, or if you are interested in a career in childcare.

For parents and carers

On these pages you can find out how to get help with finding and choosing the right childcare for you and your family, paying for childcare and information about free early years places for three-year-olds.

You can also find out more about the importance of inclusion and equality and the provision of services for children and young people whatever their needs.

Look at the drop down list to the left and click on the service you need.

:: more early years information for parents and carers

For providers

On these pages you can find out how we can support you to develop your business and enhance your workforce.

Details of our training courses are available, along with information about the Early Years Foundation Stage and the work of the early years development advisors.

You can also find out how to get support with writing a business and marketing plan for your setting as well as a list of useful contacts.

:: more early years information for providers

Working with children

Working with children is an important, rewarding and fun career. Those who work in the sector play an incredibly valuable role in supporting the lives of future generations. It is a career you can be proud of.

:: more information on working with children

Children's centres and extended schools

Dudley's aim is to give children, young people and their families access to the best services and opportunities at places that are most convenient to them.

:: more information on children's centres and extended schools

Childcare Sufficiency Assessment 2011 [pdf / 1.87MB] This is the second Dudley Borough Childcare Sufficiency Assessment (CSA), the first being published in March 2008. The CSA has been prepared to satisfy the requirements of the Childcare Act 2006, which expects all local authorities (LA) to undertake an assessment of the sufficiency of childcare for parents in their area who wish to work or train.