What age range are the children in a pre-school?

Children in pre-schools are usually aged between three and five but often there are places for 2 year olds as well.

When are Pre-schools open?

Pre-schools are usually open during school term time. Most offer sessions of three hours – either every day or on several days during the week.

What about full-time childcare?

A number of Pre-schools are developing their services to offer longer sessions or full time day-care. Some parents choose to arrange for their child-minder to take their children to Pre-school; others may choose to use other types of daycare, e.g. nursery. please see separate leaflet “Choosing a nursery class or nursery school”.

How much does a Pre-school cost?

Pre-school charges range from £2–£5 per session.

How do I find a Pre-school?

Ask your local Children's Information Service (CIS) to tell you more about Pre-schools near to your home. The Childcare Link free phone service will provide details of your local CIS on 0800 0 96 02 96. Your local EYDCP (Early Years Development and Childcare Partnership) will be also be able to give you details of Pre-schools in your area.

What will my child do at Pre-school?

The Foundation Stage is now part of the Curriculum and is a Stage for children from age 3 to the end of their reception year at school. Children are given the opportunity to build on their existing knowledge and skills through challenging and stimulating activities.

How many children will there be in a Pre-School?

Most Pre-Schools will provide places for between ten and twenty children.

How do I know my child will be safe and secure?

First of all you know your child best – look for a Pre-school you feel will suit your child. Help in making this decision is provided on a separate leaflet – “Choosing Childcare – What to Look For – Top 10 questions to ask”.

Most Pre-schools are registered with Ofsted and are inspected every 2 years. Inspection covers all aspects of the service including safety and the suitability and standard of the building. Most Pre-school staff are trained to work with children or are undergoing training. There should be one member of staff for every eight children aged three to five and one adult for every four children aged two to three .

Plus Points

• Your child is safe and can make new friends
• Your child can develop new skills and build greater confidence You can meet other parents and get to know your local community better