Dear Service Provider,
This announcement provides further information regarding the AIM application process for the 2026/2027 programme call.
AIM Level 4 and Level 5 applications opened on 06 May 2026. All applications should continue to be submitted in line with existing application processes.
AIM Level 4:
As outlined in previous communications, as part of the AIM Level 7 redesign, the level of support allocated to a child is now determined following the submission of their AIM Level 4 application and the subsequent review of the child’s needs by Better Start. It is therefore important that an AIM Level 4 application is submitted as early as possible for any child intending to access AIM Level 7 supports for the 2026/2027 programme call. Please note, preliminary decisions on the level of support determined at the AIM Level 4 application stage will be issued from early July.
It is equally important that all information provided within the AIM Level 4 application is accurate, as this directly informs the level of support awarded. In addition, please ensure that the AIM application acknowledgement form is completed correctly to avoid any delays in processing. The AIM application acknowledgement form can be found here. Where an AIM Level 4 application has been referred back to you for further information or clarification, please update and resubmit it promptly to ensure processing can continue without delay.
As previously advised, where a child has an existing AIM Level 7 application under the 2025/2026 programme call and remains eligible for an additional year of support, no action is required at this time. Service providers are asked not to withdraw these applications in advance of the 2026/2027 programme call and can expect preliminary decisions to be issued from early July.
Summer Period:
As we enter the summer months, we would like to remind service providers to submit all AIM Level 7 Non-term applications at the earliest opportunity for the current programme call.
Contact Us
If you have any queries regarding the AIM programme, please contact the Early Years Provider Centre (EYPC) by raising a request on Hive using the following categories:
- Programme: Select the relevant AIM level
- Request Type: Application
- Request Type Detail: How To
Regards,
The Early Years Team