What ages does the Day Care cater for?

We welcome children from 6 months to 4 years of age, providing high-quality care and early education in a safe, nurturing and stimulating environment. Children are cared for in age-appropriate rooms that support their development, independence and readiness for the next stage of their education.

How do I apply for a place, and how are places allocated?

Applications can be made at any time by completing a Day Care Application Form and returning it to the School Office. Places are offered subject to availability and in accordance with the Day Care's admissions criteria. If a place is not immediately available, your child will be added to our waiting list and we will contact you as soon as a suitable place becomes available.

Do you offer funded childcare places?

Yes. We offer funded childcare places in line with current government and Local Authority guidance, including eligible working parent entitlements and universal funding where applicable. Parents and carers are responsible for applying for funding, providing the required evidence and reconfirming their eligibility when requested.

How does the settling-in process work?

Before your child's official start date, we arrange settling-in sessions to help them become familiar with the environment, daily routines and members of staff. We recognise that every child settles differently and work closely with families to provide a flexible, child-centred approach that supports a smooth and positive transition into Day Care.

Will my child have a Key Person?

Yes. Every child is allocated a dedicated Key Person who takes the lead in supporting their wellbeing, learning and development. Your child's Key Person will build a strong relationship with your family, monitor your child's progress, share regular updates and ensure their individual needs, interests and routines are understood and supported.

How do you keep children safe?

Safeguarding and children's welfare are our highest priorities. We follow all statutory Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) requirements, maintain appropriate staff-to-child ratios throughout the day, carry out daily risk assessments, operate robust safeguarding procedures and ensure that appropriately trained Paediatric First Aid staff are always on site. All staff undergo safer recruitment checks, including enhanced DBS clearance, before working with children.

What happens if my child becomes unwell or needs medication?

Wherever possible, medicines should be administered at home. If medication needs to be given during the day, written parental consent is required and medicines must be supplied in their original, clearly labelled packaging. We also support children with long-term medical conditions through Individual Healthcare Plans, developed in partnership with families and healthcare professionals where appropriate.

How do you manage allergies, special diets and healthy eating?

We provide freshly prepared, balanced meals and snacks each day, taking account of children's nutritional needs. We work closely with families to meet medical, cultural and dietary requirements, maintain a comprehensive allergy register and have robust procedures to prevent cross-contamination. Fresh drinking water is always available, and meals are carefully supervised to promote safe eating and reduce the risk of choking.

My child is not yet toilet trained. Can they still attend?

Absolutely. We welcome children at every stage of toileting development and work in partnership with parents and carers to support toilet training when children are developmentally ready. Children are never excluded because they wear nappies or pull-ups, and all personal care is provided sensitively, respectfully and in line with our hygiene procedures.

Who is able to collect my child at the end of the day?

Children will only be released to adults authorised by their parent or carer. If someone unfamiliar arrives to collect your child, staff may ask for photographic identification. We can also operate a password system for additional reassurance where required. If you are delayed, please contact the School Office as soon as possible so that appropriate arrangements can be made.

How will I know how my child is getting on?

We believe that strong partnerships with families are essential. Your child's Key Person will regularly share information about their learning, development and wellbeing through daily conversations, meetings and our communication systems. We also encourage parents and carers to share information from home so we can work together to support every child's progress.

Who should I speak to if I have a question or concern?

We are committed to working in partnership with families and welcome open communication. In the first instance, please speak to your child's Key Person, who will be happy to help. If further support is required, a member of the School Leadership Team or the School Office will be pleased to assist.