Short answers to specific questions that don't need a full calculator, just a straight answer checked against gov.uk.
No, but your nursery can still ask. These charges have to be optional under government rules.
From the start of the next term, not the day you go back. Which term depends on your code deadline.
Often, yes, and it can be earlier than the government's own deadline.
Every 3 months, through your childcare account. Missing it can mean your code isn't renewed.
Funded hours start on the term start date, not the eligibility date printed on your code.
Yes, with extra allowances built in for income averaging and a start-up period.
Yes, but a quarterly cap and a withdrawal clawback limit how much it's worth doing.
A window that keeps your funded place going, tied to funding block end dates, not a flat number of days.
You keep the hours, but no nursery has to spread them over 52 weeks if they'd rather not.
Unpaid, reasonable time off for genuine emergencies involving a dependant, from day one of employment.
Don't put a date that isn't true, even if your nursery is the one asking.