A day nursery
- Is a childcare centre that provides a safe and structured environment that is set up to care for children from birth to about five years old.
- Children can play, learn skills, be part of a group and make friends while their parents work or study.
- Open between the hours of 8am and 6pm Monday to Friday all year round (excluding Bank Holidays).
- Offer part time and full time care.
- Are different to nursery schools. Nursery schools are for children aged between three and five and are often attached to a preschool or primary school and used as a “feeder” for the school they are attached to.
- Access free entitlement funding for 2,3 & 4 year olds.
- Required to register with Ofsted.
- Inspected by Ofsted to ensure they provide a safe and stimulating environment for the children they care for.
- Are required to follow the EYFS
- The Early Years Foundation Stage is a mandatory framework for all Ofsted registered childcare providers and schools caring for children from birth to five years. This was developed to ensure that all childcare services provide a safe and secure environment for children to support their learning through carefully planned play activities which are fun and appropriate to their needs
- Some offer after school and/or holiday care.
- You may be entitled to help with childcare costs through the Inland Revenue Tax Credits