What is a nursery?

Nurseries are for children under five years old to play and learn and have fun in groups while their parents work or study. Some nurseries provide free early education.

Most nurseries are registered with Ofsted and are inspected within a two year period. They are usually open all day for most weeks in the year. Some nurseries offer free, part-time early education or pre-school places for children aged three and four. 

Nurseries are run by a team of staff and activities are planned to help children enjoy learning.  At nursery, children are involved in activities such as playing, learning new skills and making friends. 

There are different types of nursery with different ways of operating so look around for one that suits your child and you. 

Plus points 

- opportunities for children to learn and play with friends
- usually geared to the needs of children with working parents

What will my child do at nursery?

Children in funded early years settings will work towards achieving the Early Learning Goals. Through well-planned play, children will develop skills such as speaking, listening, persistence, concentration, learning to work together and co-operate with other children. 

How many children will there be in a nursery? 

Most nurseries provide places for between 26 and 40 children although some are smaller and others larger. Children are usually divided into much smaller groups based on their age.  

What age range are the children in a nursery?

Nurseries are for children aged up to five. Some nurseries have places for babies and toddlers as well as for children aged three to five. And some nurseries are part of childcare schemes which also provide childcare for older children.

What about part-time childcare? 

Many nurseries are happy to offer you part-time places. Often they organise these into morning and afternoon sessions.