Day Nurseries
Day Nurseries are registered childcare facilities that offer
both full and part time childcare for children from 0 - 5 years,
some offer after school facilities too. They are usually open all
year round, with opening and closing times set to accommodate both
working and non-working parents with children under 5.
Why do they have to be
registered?
They are required to register with Ofsted to meet the National
Standards. These standards relate to their suitability as carers of
children, the safety of premises and facilities, insurance and
record keeping. Parents should not automatically assume that all
carers have been subject to police checks. Supervisors and Officers
in Charge will, but assistant staff may not necessarily be. Their
certificate of Registration and Public Liability Insurance will
always be on display.
The nursery is inspected regularly by Ofsted, and inspection
reports are on the internet at http://www.ofsted.gov.uk/ and at
the nursery.
How many children may attend?
The number will vary with each nursery.
There should always be an appropriate number of adults to
children.
The staffing ratio for full day care is:
| Age of child |
Number of staff per child |
| 0 to 2 years |
1 staff to 3 children |
| 2 to 3 years |
1 staff to 4 children |
| 3 to 5 years |
1 staff to 8 children |
What do children do at a Day
Nursery?
Activities and learning experiences are planned by skilled staff
and will enhance every aspect of a child's development.
They provide children with pre-school experiences such as art,
craft and construction activities, sand and water play, adventure
play, music and movement, books and stories etc, as well as the
opportunity to socialise with other children. They provide a
stable, secure and relaxed environment where parents and carers
feel satisfied to leave their children.
Information the Nursery will need
You will be asked to complete a registration form giving details
of your child, any illnesses or allergies, where you can be
contacted etc, and any information that will help your child to
settle. You should be given information about the Nursery.
Some points to consider
- Visit the nursery with your child.
- Are you made welcome?
- Check their Registration and Insurance certificates.
- Do the children look happy? Do the adults seem to enjoy being
with the children?
- Are there plenty of toys, books, and play equipment, including
dressing up clothes, and home corner set out for children's
use?
- Do the activities take into account the children's ages,
cultural backgrounds and any special needs?
- Do the toys, books, equipment, activities, displays and staff
show a positive attitude to children of both sexes and of all
races, religions, cultures, and disabilities?
- Are you encouraged to settle your child?
- Are you provided with any information about the services and
policies?
- Will you be consulted on your child's welfare and
development?
- Are the children prevented from leaving the premises
undetected, are gates and fences kept secure?
- Will they know how to reach you in an emergency?
- Do they carry out regular fire drills and have their fire
equipment maintained?
Take your time before you decide where to place your child,
visit several nurseries, several times if necessary.
What if you are not happy about things
at the Nursery?
Discuss any difficulties and follow the Nursery's complaints
procedure. If you are still unable to resolve your difficulties and
they relate to the quality of care, contact: Ofsted Tel: 0300 123
1231 or http://www.ofsted.gov.uk/
