General FAQs
We know that when you begin thinking about a nursery for your child you will have so many questions. The brilliant teams at each of our Seymour House nurseries are always available to provide advice and support to potential new parents, so to get you started we have answered some of the most frequently asked questions below.
General
What is a private day nursery?
A private nursery is an independently owned and operated childcare facility, usually offering full-time or part-time care for children from birth to five years old. Many day nurseries also incorporate early years education, helping children to develop their cognitive, social, emotional and physical skills.
What are the benefits of a private nursery?
Private nurseries can have some benefits over state-funded nurseries. A private day nursery may be able to offer a wider range of activities and facilities, as well as having greater flexibility in terms of hours and holidays to fit round the schedule of busy parents and carers.
How do day nurseries benefit children and parents?
Day nurseries can be a brilliant childcare option with many advantages for both children and parents. Early interaction with other children and caregivers promotes both social and emotional development. Many day nurseries also provide Early Years education which, combined with structured activities and routines, helps prepare children for the transition to school.
For parents, day nurseries provide peace of mind with the knowledge that your child is in a safe and nurturing environment. At Seymour House day nurseries our care is beyond brilliant. We offer support and guidance for parents including flexibility to cater to different work schedules and needs.
Is a private day nursery worth it?
Absolutely! A day nursery will ensure peace of mind for you as a parent and a caring, supportive environment for your child. When a child has begun their early years education in nursery school, they have already begun to develop invaluable social and cognitive skills that will set them on the right track as they move on to primary school and beyond.
What is the difference between a day nursery and a nursery school?
The key differences between a nursery and a nursery school are the age group, the hours and the leadership. As the name suggests, a nursery school is very much focused on providing structured early years education and will have a trained teacher or headteacher in charge. Nursery schools may be privately run or attached to a primary school and are for children aged 3 to 5 years old. They are usually open term time only from around 9am until 3.30pm, Monday to Friday.
By comparison, a day nursery will often care for children from 3 months to 5 years old. Nursery opening times are usually much longer each day and, typically, they are open year round, though some may be term time only. A nursery includes all aspects of caring for young children with lots of opportunity for physical activity, social and emotional learning and early years education.
How much is nursery per hour?
The daily cost of nursery care will depend on the number of hours and how many days your child attends. Using our easy Fee Calculator, you can quickly get an idea of childcare costs at any of the Seymour House nursery schools.
How much does nursery cost per day?
The daily cost of nursery care will depend on the number of hours and how many days your child attends. Using our easy Fee Calculator, you can quickly get an idea of childcare costs at any of the Seymour House nursery schools.
Will my child get 15 or 30 hours free childcare?
If you live in England, you may be entitled to free childcare for children aged 9 months to 4 years old. Eligibility will depend on your child’s age and circumstances, whether you are working and your income. If you are eligible and your child is aged 9 months to 2 years old, you can get up to 15 hours per week of free childcare. For children aged 3 to 4 years old, you can get up to 30 hours per week of free childcare.
Learn more about childcare funding.
Is 9 months too early for nursery?
No age is too early for nursery. Every family has different childcare needs due to work or other commitments. However, it is important to ensure that the nursery you choose has the experienced staff and facilities necessary to provide the level of care required for young babies. Visiting different nurseries to ensure their infant day care provision aligns with your priorities and values is the best way to find the ideal fit for you and your child.
Is 3 too late to start nursery?
Not at all! Starting nursery at 3 years old or later will still help children with the social skills and cognitive development that will help prepare them for school. However, at Seymour House we advise parents to start their children at nursery as early as possible. The nurturing environment of a nursery school really does give them the best start in life.
How often does Ofsted inspect nurseries?
Ofsted is required by law to inspect all group setting daycare providers. A new day nursery will be inspected by Ofsted within 30 months of registration. Following that, nurseries are inspected at least once every 6 years to ensure they continue to meet the statutory requirements of the Early Years Foundation Stage in a safe and appropriate environment. All Seymour House nurseries have an Outstanding Ofsted rating.
