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Written question asked by Olly Glover (Liberal Democrat) on Friday, 28 August 2026, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Wednesday, 2 September 2026. It was answered by Paul Waugh (Labour) on Tuesday, 8 September 2026 on behalf of the Department for Education.


Childcare: Postgraduate Education

Question

To ask the Secretary of State for Education, whether her Department plans to undertake a review of the eligibility criteria for the 30 hours funded childcare scheme for those undertaking a PhD funded through UKRI and similar research councils.

Answer

It is our ambition that all families have access to high-quality, affordable and flexible early education and care, giving every child the best start in life and delivering on our Plan for Change.

The government recognises the value of parents continuing in education and provides a range of support for students in higher education to assist them with childcare.

The postgraduate master’s loan scheme and doctoral loans are available to help remove the financial barrier often faced by those wishing to step up to achieving a postgraduate qualification. These loans are not based on income and are intended as a contribution to the cost of study. They can be used by students according to their personal circumstances to cover the costs of fees and living costs including childcare.


Secondary information

Type
Written question
Reference
24973
Session
2026-27
Grouped for answer
Yes
Transferred
Yes
Subjects
Childcare Eligibility Postgraduate education
Link
View this Written question on www.parliament.uk