What is the difference between nursery and childcare?

"Nursery" typically refers to a place or facility where young children, usually toddlers up to around three years old, are taken care of during the day. These establishments focus on early childhood education, providing activities that promote learning, socialization, and development appropriate for that age group. Nurseries often have structured schedules, incorporate play-based learning, and may introduce basic educational concepts. "Childcare," on the other hand, is a broader term that encompasses the care and supervision of children, covering a wider age range from infancy to pre-adolescence. Childcare facilities or services offer care, supervision, and sometimes educational activities for children when their parents or guardians are unavailable, such as during work hours. Childcare can include nurseries for younger children, preschool programs, after-school care, and even programs during school holidays.

What age should a child start nursery?

The ideal age for a child to start nursery can vary depending on several factors including the child's development, family circumstances, and personal preferences. However, many nurseries accept children from around three months to three years old. Parents often consider starting nursery when their child is between two and three years old. This age range allows children to benefit from the social interaction and early learning experiences that nurseries provide.

When should I start looking at nurseries?

It's a good idea to start looking at nurseries well in advance of when you plan to enroll your child.Generally, starting your search around 6-12 months before you plan to enroll your child is a good timeline. This allows enough time for research, visits, and consideration before making a decision.

When should I start looking at nurseries?

It's a good idea to start looking at nurseries well in advance of when you plan to enroll your child.Generally, starting your search around 6-12 months before you plan to enroll your child is a good timeline. This allows enough time for research, visits, and consideration before making a decision.

How much is nursery per hour in UK?

On average, nursery fees in the UK can range from around £6 to £10 per hour. However, the cost of nursery per hour in the UK varies widely based on multiple factors such as location, the specific nursery, age of the child, and the services offered.

How to find a nursery school place?

Finding a nursery school place involves initial research to identify suitable options based on location, fees, and educational approach. Contact the shortlisted nurseries to inquire about availability, admission criteria, and fees. Schedule visits to assess the environment, staff interactions, and facilities. Once you've decided on a nursery, understand their application process and deadlines. Some may require filling out forms or paying a registration fee. If there's a waiting list, consider getting your child's name on it promptly to enhance the chances of securing a spot. Maintain communication with the nursery staff throughout the waiting period to demonstrate your continued interest. You can easily find nurseries in your area on nurseriesandschools.org

How do I find the right nursery for my child?

Finding the right nursery involves factors like location, educational approach, facilities, and staff qualifications. Start by researching nearby nurseries, checking online reviews, and seeking recommendations from other parents. Visit potential nurseries to observe the environment, how staff interact with children, and assess if it aligns with your child's needs and your preferences for early education. Ask about curriculum, safety measures, and opportunities for social interaction. Trust your instincts and choose a nursery that feels safe, nurturing, and stimulating for your child's developmental needs. Additionally, consider the nursery's educational philosophy, staff qualifications, and the overall atmosphere. Ensure it provides a balance between structured learning and play-based activities, fostering a supportive environment that encourages your child's social, emotional, and academic development. Effective communication and a positive relationship between the nursery and your family are also vital aspects to consider. Nurseriesandschools.org is a one stop solution for your nursery searches.

What time do nurseries open and close?

Most nurseries in the UK typically operate within a range of hours that accommodate working parents. Generally, nursery hours might start as early as 7:30 or 8:00 AM and can extend until 5:30 or 6:00 PM. Some nurseries might offer extended hours or flexible drop-off and pick-up times for parents who require childcare outside of these standard hours, accommodating varying work schedules.

What is the aim of a day nursery?

The primary aim of a day nursery is to provide a safe, nurturing, and stimulating environment where young children can learn, play, and develop essential skills. Day nurseries typically focus on the holistic development of children in their early years. They focus on fostering social, emotional, cognitive, and physical growth through age-appropriate activities and play-based learning. Additionally, day nurseries aim to support families by maintaining open communication and collaboration. They strive to create a partnership with parents or guardians, offering guidance and updates on a child's progress while ensuring a safe, supportive, and enriching environment that aids children in their developmental journey.

What is the aim of a day nursery?

The primary aim of a day nursery is to provide a safe, nurturing, and stimulating environment where young children can learn, play, and develop essential skills. Day nurseries typically focus on the holistic development of children in their early years. They focus on fostering social, emotional, cognitive, and physical growth through age-appropriate activities and play-based learning. Additionally, day nurseries aim to support families by maintaining open communication and collaboration. They strive to create a partnership with parents or guardians, offering guidance and updates on a child's progress while ensuring a safe, supportive, and enriching environment that aids children in their developmental journey.

What age groups are in a day nursery?

Day nurseries typically cater to a range of age groups within early childhood.Day nurseries are for children aged 3 months to 5 years of age. The age groups in a day nursery often include: Babies and Infants: Nurseries may have separate rooms or sections specifically designed for infants, usually from around three months old up to approximately 18 months or two years. Toddlers: Another group within day nurseries is typically toddlers, ranging from around 18 months to three years old. These children might be in a separate area or group within the nursery to cater to their specific needs and developmental stages. Preschoolers: Day nurseries often have spaces for preschool-aged children, usually from around three to five years old. These children might participate in more structured learning activities and preparations for formal schooling.

What comes first nursery or playgroup?

Playgroup comes first. Nursery and playgroup differ significantly in their formality and educational focus. Playgroup primarily centers on play, entertainment, and introductory activities like painting, coloring, and socializing. In contrast, nursery education is more structured, emphasizing various subjects such as math and language. It serves as a foundational educational environment, introducing young children to fundamental concepts like math, language skills, and values in a playful manner, preparing them for later entry assessments into reputable kindergarten programs. The atmosphere in playschools is notably relaxed and playful, fostering a casual environment for children. In contrast, the nursery provides a child's initial exposure to formal education, setting the stage for a more structured learning journey.

Why is nursery important in school?

Nurseries are essential in schools as they provide the foundational education and social development crucial for a child's early years. They focus on holistic development, introducing basic concepts like language, numeracy, and social skills in a structured yet nurturing environment. This early exposure prepares children for the routines and expectations of formal schooling, fostering independence, confidence, and the ability to interact with peers and adults. Moreover, nurseries play a pivotal role in identifying any developmental needs early on, allowing for timely support and intervention. They serve as the initial step in a child's educational journey, setting the stage for future academic success and providing the groundwork for social and cognitive development that forms the basis for later learning experiences.

What is day care for children?

Daycare for children refers to a facility or service that provides care, supervision, and sometimes early education for children during the day while their parents or guardians are at work or unavailable. Daycare centres cater to children of various ages, from infants to pre-adolescents, offering a safe and nurturing environment where children engage in age-appropriate activities, play, and socialization. The primary focus of daycare is to ensure the well-being and safety of children while their parents are away. Daycare centres typically have trained staff who oversees the children, offering meals, structured activities, playtime, and sometimes educational programs tailored to different age groups.

Is nursery part of preschool?

Yes, nurseries are a type of preschool. The term "preschool" is a broad category that encompasses early childhood education for children before they enter formal schooling. Nurseries specifically refer to early education and care centers for young children, typically between the ages of three months to five years old.

What comes after pre nursery?

After pre-nursery, children usually progress to nursery or preschool, depending on the specific terminologies used by different educational settings. Pre-nursery serves as an introductory stage for very young children, usually between the ages of two to three, preparing them for a more structured learning environment.

How do you start a nursery?

Starting a nursery involves several key steps and considerations: Research and Planning: Begin by conducting thorough research into the requirements and regulations for starting a nursery in your area or country. Understand the legal and licensing requirements, as well as zoning regulations and health and safety standards that apply to childcare facilities. Develop a Business Plan: Create a detailed business plan outlining your nursery's concept, mission, target market, services offered, staffing plan, operational structure, budget, and financial projections. This plan will serve as a roadmap for your nursery's establishment and operation. Secure Funding: Determine the financial resources needed to start and sustain the nursery. Explore funding options such as personal investment, loans, grants, or partnerships to cover startup costs, including facility setup, equipment, staffing, insurance, and initial operational expenses. Location and Facilities: Choose an appropriate location for your nursery that complies with zoning regulations and is accessible and safe for children and families. Ensure the facility meets licensing standards regarding space requirements, safety features, and amenities suitable for childcare. Obtain Necessary Licenses and Permits: Obtain the required licenses and permits to operate a childcare facility in your area. This typically involves fulfilling regulatory requirements, health inspections, background checks for staff, and meeting specific standards set by local authorities or governing bodies. Staffing and Training: Recruit qualified and experienced staff members who are passionate about early childhood education and childcare. Provide necessary training and certifications required for working in a nursery, including first aid and child safeguarding training. Develop Policies and Procedures: Establish clear policies and procedures for enrollment, health and safety protocols, curriculum, parent communication, discipline, and emergency procedures. Ensure these policies comply with regulatory standards and are communicated effectively to staff and parents. Market and Advertise: Develop a marketing strategy to promote your nursery and attract families. Utilize various channels such as social media, websites, local advertising, and community outreach to reach your target audience. Starting a nursery requires careful planning, adherence to regulations, and a dedication to providing a safe, nurturing, and educational environment for children. Seeking guidance from experts in childcare regulations or business development can also be beneficial in this process.

Why are nurseries closing?

Several factors contribute to the closure of nurseries in the UK; a main reason for these challenges was inadequate funding levels, which were made worse by the impact of Covid-19. The other factors include: Changes in Government Funding: Changes to government funding and subsidy schemes for childcare can significantly impact nurseries. Economic Challenges: Economic downturns or uncertain financial climates can affect parents' ability to afford nursery fees. Pandemic Impact: The COVID-19 pandemic had a severe impact on many sectors, including childcare. Competition and Market Demand: In some areas, there might be oversaturation or insufficient demand for nursery services. Regulatory Requirements: Compliance with strict regulatory requirements, such as staff-to-child ratios, health and safety standards, and educational guidelines etc can lead to nursery closures.

Why is a childminder better than a nursery?

Whether a childminder or a nursery is better for a child depends on various factors, including the child's needs, family circumstances, and personal preferences. Each option has its own advantages. Whereas childminders have: Individualized Care: Childminders typically care for fewer children in a home setting, allowing for more personalized attention. Flexibility: Childminders may offer more flexible hours compared to nurseries, catering to individual family schedules. Continuity of Care: With a childminder, children often experience more consistent care from the same individual over time. Home-Like Environment: Being in a home setting with a childminder can provide a homely and comforting atmosphere, which some children may prefer over a more institutional setting.

Why are nurseries so expensive?

Several factors contribute to the high cost of nurseries in the UK: Operating Costs: Running a nursery involves significant expenses, including staffing (salaries and training), rent or property costs, utilities, insurance, educational resources, and maintaining a safe and stimulating environment. Staffing Ratios and Qualifications: Nurseries in the UK are required to maintain specific staff-to-child ratios and employ qualified staff, which can impact costs. Limited Government Subsidies: While the government provides some financial support for childcare through schemes like the Tax-Free Childcare and 30 Hours Free Childcare for eligible families, the subsidies might not cover the full cost of nursery fees. This leaves a considerable portion of the cost burden on parents. Location and Demand: Nursery fees can vary based on geographical location and local demand. In areas with high living costs or high demand for childcare services, nurseries might charge higher fees to cover their expenses and maintain quality standards. Quality of Services: Nurseries that offer high-quality education, trained staff, specialized programs, and better facilities may charge higher fees to cover these enhanced services.

Nurseries Bury Area | Find Childcare in Bury Area

Bury Grammar School Kindergarten

Bury Grammar School Tenterden Street Bury BL9 0HN North West England Greater Manchester Bury Area

A very warm welcome to Bury Grammar Kindergarten (Preschool and Nursery)! We welcome children from the term they turn 3 years of age. Our exceptional high standards of provision ensure that children are safe, happy and making excellent progress in readiness for starting scho...

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Choochoos Day Nursery - Canterbury

50 Mill Lane Harbledown Canterbury CT2 8NE South East England Kent Canterbury Area

Choochoos Day Nursery was begun by an independent provider for 16 years, who understood the importance of consistently providing exceptional care and education for all children from a secure, stimulating and welcoming base. In 2021 Choochoos Day Nursery was brought by Old Station Nurseries, however ...

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Choochoos Day Nursery - Whitstable

Whitstable Railway Station Railway Avenue Whitstable CT5 1QS South East England Kent Canterbury Area

Choochoos Day Nursery was begun by an independent provider for 16 years, who understood the importance of consistently providing exceptional care and education for all children from a secure, stimulating and welcoming base. In 2021 Choochoos Day Nursery was brought by Old Station Nurseries, however ...

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Colourbox Montessori School - Barrow

Church Road Barrow Bury St Edmunds IP29 5AU East of England Suffolk St Edmundsbury Area

Welcome to Colourbox Montessori School "Colourbox in Haverhill is such a fantastic nursery...it is beautifully set out, the staff are very welcoming and kind and also professional and organised.  I am so glad that Colourbox came to Haverhill - I feel it has given my children...

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Colourbox Montessori School - Haverhill

Haverhill Research Park Three Counties Way Haverhill CB9 7SW East of England Suffolk St Edmundsbury Area

Welcome to Colourbox Montessori School"Colourbox in Haverhill is such a fantastic nursery...it is beautifully set out, the staff are very welcoming and kind and also professional and organised.  I am so glad that Colourbox came to Haverhill - I feel it has given my children ...

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Golden Apples Day Nursery

Homefield Business Park Homefield Road Haverhill CB9 8QP East of England Suffolk St Edmundsbury Area

Welcome to Golden Apples Nursery, Haverhill  A fantastic, purpose built nursery with large preschool facilities. Open 7am to 7pm Monday to Friday, 52 weeks per year (excluding Bank Holidays).   âWe also offer a before and after school service with free transport to a...

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Innsworth Day Nursery , Gibson Road -The Old Station Nursery

Imjin Barracks Innsworth Lane Gloucester GL3 1ET South West England Gloucestershire Tewkesbury Area

At Innsworth Day Nursery, we nurture and grow all the qualities that makes your child unique. Our devoted nursery staff make children feel welcome from the very first moment they arrive. From that point onwards, your little one gets the highest quality, individual care possible, second onl...

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Junior Kings School Nursery Pre-Prep

Junior King's School Milner Court Canterbury CT2 0AY South East England Kent Canterbury Area

Set in a vibrant and purpose-built Little Barn the Junior King's School nursery aims to help prepare children ahead of the move to their next stage of learning within the Pre-Prep section.The happiness and well-being of each child is catered for through a wide variety of learning and play activities...

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Lilliput Preschool

Military Road Canterbury CT1 1PA South East England Kent Canterbury Area

Lilliput Pre-school is a well-established, purpose built early years setting in Canterbury. We provide a safe, caring environment for children aged 2-5 years. Our bright indoor space and fantastic gardens contribute to a child's learning and development. Whilst our team of experienced qualified staf...

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Little Hoots Ltd

Grangefield Approach Voxwell Lane Cheltenham GL52 8GL South West England Gloucestershire Tewkesbury Area

Little Hoots provides care and education for Pre-school children age 3-4, many of whom go on to attend Grangefield School. Whichever school they attend we provide a fun and friendly introduction to 'big school', building your child's confidence and early years skills along the way. Little Hoots...

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Little Smarties Bishops Cleeve

Former Royal British Legion Site Pecked Lane Cheltenham GL52 8JR South West England Gloucestershire Tewkesbury Area

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Mottershead Drive Nursery - The Old Station Nursery

54-56 Mottershead Drive Innsworth Gloucester GL3 1EH South West England Gloucestershire Tewkesbury Area

Mottershead Day Nursery started life as two family homes next to Innsworth Primary School. Today it’s one special place, created to feel like home. With a warm, welcoming atmosphere and a small team of friendly, devoted staff, this exceptional nursery gives your child a safe space to grow at ...

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Tiddlywinks Day Nursery - Bury

6 Manchester Old Road Bury BL9 0TB North West England Greater Manchester Bury Area

Tiddlywinks Nursery Group have expanded to the area of Bury with their 6th site, offering outstanding daycare service nearby the town centre of Bury and the Town Hall. The metrolink and bus stations are only a short walk away and they have expanded outside of the Greater Manchester region where...

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Tiddlywinks Day Nursery - Walmersley

Talbot Grove Bury BL9 6PH North West England Greater Manchester Bury Area

Tiddlywinks Nursery Walmersley provides excellent day care and early years education for children from 4 months, up to five years old.The friendly and nurturing staff work in close partnership with parents to make sure their children have the best start in life.Children benefit from a happy, wa...

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Townsend Montessori Herne Bay

Beaumont House Beaumont Street Herne Bay CT6 8LX South East England Kent Canterbury Area

Our childrenâs nursery in Herne Bay is situated on Beaumont Street, just a short walk from Hampton Primary School. We have a lovely garden area with a climbing frame, sand and water play, a planting area, and a separate baby garden to let your little ones grow. There are two large,...

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Welcome Nurseries - Crompton Street

5 Crompton Street Bury BL9 0AD North West England Greater Manchester Bury Area

Welcome Nurseries understands that choosing the right childcare is probably one of the most important decisions parents will ever make.Welcome Nurseries @Crompton Street provides a safe, clean and inspiring learning environment to children in the Bury area.With a warm family-feel and plenty of ...

165 Hucclecote Road Hucclecote Gloucester GL3 3TX South West England Gloucestershire Tewkesbury Area

The Little People Day Nursery is based in a lovely period property in the Hucclecote area, on the outskirts of Gloucester. Weâre in a highly convenient location, just a few hundred yards away from Gloucester Business Park â as well as being a short drive from Glou...

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Bury Grammar School Kindergarten

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Choochoos Day Nursery - Canterbury

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Choochoos Day Nursery - Whitstable

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Colourbox Montessori School - Barrow

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Colourbox Montessori School - Haverhill

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Golden Apples Day Nursery

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Innsworth Day Nursery , Gibson Road -The Old Station Nursery

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Junior Kings School Nursery Pre-Prep

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Lilliput Preschool

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Little Hoots Ltd

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Little Smarties Bishops Cleeve

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Mottershead Drive Nursery - The Old Station Nursery

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Tiddlywinks Day Nursery - Bury

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Tiddlywinks Day Nursery - Walmersley

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Townsend Montessori Herne Bay

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Welcome Nurseries - Crompton Street

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Abc Pre-School At Swalecliffe

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Ambers Attic Nursery Ltd

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Bambinos Day Nursery

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Bambis Childcare

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Beeches Day Nursery

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Beltinge Day Nursery

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Blue Skies Montessori Nursery

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Bright Horizons Bury St Edmunds Day Nursery And Preschool

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Bright Horizons Canterbury Day Nursery And Preschool

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Bury Whitefield Jewish Nursery

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Bury St Edmunds Day Nursery

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Busy Bees At Canterbury

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Busy Bees at Tewkesbury

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Busy Bees At West Suffolk Hospital

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Canterbury Day Nursery Holiday Playscheme And Asc

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Cherry Trees

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Churchdown Day Nursery

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Cityview Pre-School Nursery

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Clever Clogs

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Clover Leaf Childcare Ltd - Little Miracles

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Club 4 Kids Childcare

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Culford School Nursery

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Dan Dans Ltd

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Dizzys Day Nursery