The importance of early learning — and the funding that makes it free

The first five years shape a child like no others. Long before school, children are building the foundations of everything that follows — language, confidence, friendships, curiosity, self-control. Research consistently shows that children who experience quality early-years education start school more confident and better prepared, and that the benefits reach far beyond the classroom.

That’s why we do what we do. Iqra Preschool was founded on a simple belief: every child deserves the best possible start in life, and no child should be left behind because of their family’s circumstances.

The good news: it can cost you nothing. Government funding covers early education for far more families than many parents realise:

• Every 3 and 4 year old in England gets 15 funded hours a week, regardless of whether you work.
• Eligible working families can claim up to 30 funded hours — and many 2 year olds qualify for funded places too.

Check what you’re entitled to in two minutes at childcarechoices.gov.uk, or bring us your questions — we help families with the paperwork every week. At Iqra there’s no registration fee and no deposit, and funded places carry no hidden charges.

Your child’s best start might already be paid for. Apply for a place or book a visit at your nearest branch — Manor Park, Poplar or Whitechapel.