Nurseries and preschools
Nurseries for 0-5 years
- Offer full or part-time childcare and early education for children aged 0-5 years.
- Are mainly open from 8.00am-6.00pm.
- Are all inspected by Ofsted to make sure that the care they provide is of a good standard.
If you live near a neighbouring borough, make sure that you get childcare lists from them as well. Many nurseries offer sibling discounts if you have two or more children at the same nursery.
Even though all children can receive 15 hours a week of free early years' education, not all nurseries offer this, so you will need to check before you enrol.
Nursery classes in schools for 3-4-year-olds
- Provides early education for children aged from three years old, until they are old enough to attend a reception class. It is important to note that attending a school nursery doesn’t guarantee getting a place in the same primary school.
- Sessions usually last for three hours per day and during term time only.
- If the nursery class finishes at midday, you may want to consider hiring a childminder if you need childcare for longer.
Preschools and playgroups for 2-5-year-olds
- Offer part-time early education and care for children between the ages of two and five years.
- Most are are funded to provide 15 hours of free education a week.