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 Southwark Borough | Find Childcare in Southwark Borough

Alpha Stars Early Years

10a Meeting House Lane London SE15 2UN London London Southwark Borough

Alpha Stars Early Years is located in the heart of Peckham. It is secure with gated entry. There is a fully enclosed outdoor play area with numerous toys and resources to encourage functional and imaginative play. Subject to availability they offer full time, part time and ad hoc childcare allo...

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Banana Moon Day Nursery Nunhead

2a Machell Road Nunhead London SE15 3XQ London London Southwark Borough

Banana Moon Day Nursery, in the Nunhead area of London, welcomes parents and children from the local community to a childcare and learning environment based upon a vision of being a caring, loving and secure service.The facility benefits from having both indoor and outdoor play areas, including...

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Banana Moon Day Nursery Southwark

Ground Floor 1 Trundle Street London SE1 1QT London London Southwark Borough

Banana Moon Day Nursery Southwark is committed to a caring, loving and supporting environment for your treasured possessions, with care carried out by a qualified team who are well-informed on health, safety and security, as well as all key areas of pre-school learning.The facility is designed ...

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Camberwell Grove Nursery Pre-School

195E Camberwell Grove Camberwell London SE5 8JU London London Southwark Borough

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Galaxy Explorers Day Nursery Ltd

24 Quebec Way London SE16 7LF London London Southwark Borough

Galaxy Explorers Day Nursery is a privately run nursery located close to Canada Water station, Surrey Quays station and Stave Yard Ecological Park. It was set up by two friends who wanted to create an environment for children where they are free to explore and discover themselves.Their approach...

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Little Angels 247 - 3 Perkins Square

3 Perkins Square London SE1 9HU London London Southwark Borough

We are Little Angels, a network of family-run, home away from home settings where children can spread their wings and develop into wonderful little individuals. Our exceptional premises, highly qualified staff, relentless dedication to the children in our care and passion for early years development...

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Little Angels 247 - Southwark Bridge Road

131 Southwark Bridge Road London SE1 0EY London London Southwark Borough

Little Angels 24/7 is an award-winning London day care centre located on Southwark Bridge Road, Southwark SE1, which first opened its doors in the 1990s.Little Angels was discovered when a trio of a mother and two sisters turned a blossoming passion into a service for new parents. A decade late...

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Little Bears In Elephant Central

7 Castle Square Elephant & Castle London SE17 1LA London London Southwark Borough

Little Bear's In Elephant & Castle is the newest member of the Little Bearâs family, providing high-quality early years education for those in the local area.Child-led learning and fun is lead by a team of experienced practitioners in a stimulating and engaging environment...

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Peckham Rye - Sunhill Day Nurseries

Unit A&B Robert Court Sternhall Lane London SE15 4NT London London Southwark Borough

Located in the heart of the community, Sunhill Peckham is the perfect nursery for busy parents. Offering a home from home environment, our spacious and carefully designed nursery encourages learning through discovery, enjoyment and stimulation. Located in the centre of the hustle and bustle of Peckh...

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Poppys Day Nursery

St Gertrudes Chuch Hall Corbetts Lane London SE16 2BQ London London Southwark Borough

Poppy's nursery will provide outstanding care to children within a safe environment for growth and development whilst facilitating ease for parents to carry on with their daily activities.Poppyâs Day Nursery strongly believe in promoting equality and diversity when recruiting staff...

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School Outdoors Dulwich

104 Burbage Road London SE24 9HE London London Southwark Borough

School Outdoors Dulwich is a small, privately owned nursery based in a forest setting near Dulwich Village, London, and led by qualified primary school teachers, Forest School Leaders and Early Years Educators.The outdoor nursery follows the forest school approach, giving children freedom to ex...

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The Salvation Army William Booth Nursery After School Club

William Booth College London SE5 8BQ London London Southwark Borough

William Booth Nursery and After School Club registered in 2016, providing childcare for Salvation Army cadets. It is situated in Denmark Hill in South East London.  After-school and holiday provision also operates under the same registration. The early years provision is open from September to ...

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Tivere Emonefe

3 Bodley Way London SE17 1FN London London Southwark Borough

At Tigers Childcare, they provide high-quality environments, interactions and experiences that help each child reach their own potential. Your child's entry into the nursery marks a wonderful journey for both you and your child. Although this may be your child's first experience of group learning, t...

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Under The Willow Nursery

198a Croxted Road London SE21 8NW London London Southwark Borough

Under the Willow Nursery is located in the heart of Dulwich Herne Hill, Brixton, in a purpose-built, eco-friendly building.The nursery follows the teachings of Maria Montessori, a pioneer in early education whose teaching methods promote independence and a love for learning. The Montessori meth...

106 Evelina Road London SE15 3HL London London Southwark Borough

Dulwich Sports Ground 102-106 Turney Road London SE21 7JH London London Southwark Borough

113-115 Asylum Road Peckham London SE15 2LB London London Southwark Borough

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Alpha Stars Early Years

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Banana Moon Day Nursery Nunhead

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Banana Moon Day Nursery Southwark

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Camberwell Grove Nursery Pre-School

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Galaxy Explorers Day Nursery Ltd

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Little Angels 247 - 3 Perkins Square

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Little Angels 247 - Southwark Bridge Road

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Little Bears In Elephant Central

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Peckham Rye - Sunhill Day Nurseries

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Poppys Day Nursery

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School Outdoors Dulwich

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The Salvation Army William Booth Nursery After School Club

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Tivere Emonefe

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Under The Willow Nursery

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1St Place At Cambridge House

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1St Place At Chumleigh Gardens

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1St Place At Lorrimore Square

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Ann Bernadt Nursery School Childrens Centre

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Arc Nursery

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Aylesbury Day Nursery

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Belgrave Nursery K C H

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Bermondsey Community Nursery

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Bird In Bush Nursery Pre-School

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Bishops House Early Years Centre

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Blossoms Montessori Childrens House

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Bosco Nursery

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Bright Horizons Tabard Square Day Nursery And Preschool

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Bright Sojourner Nursery

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Burgess Park Nursery Pre-School

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Cedar House Day Nursery

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Cherry Tree Montessori Ltd

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Colby Road Nursery

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Colourbox Day Nursery

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Ducks Kindergarten Infant School

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Dulwich Montessori Nursery School

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Dulwich Oaks Montessori Nursery School

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Dulwich Wood Nursery School

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Early Steps Day Nursery

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Edg Nursery