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Nurseries
Choosing a Nursery
Nurseries are for children under 5 years old to play and learn and have fun in groups while their parents work or study.
Most nurseries are registered with the Care Commission and inspected each year. They are usually open all day for most weeks in the year. Part-time places are often available.
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
- Some nurseries offer free, part-time early education or pre-school places for children aged three and four
What sort of Nurseries are there?
Private nursery - run as a business by a private owner
Local authority nursery - run by the local council for children in the local community
Community nursery - a non-profit nursery run for children in the local community
Workplace nursery - some employers run childcare schemes for children of their employees
How do parents know their child will be safe and secure?
First of all you know your child best - so look for a nursery you feel will be suitable for your child.
Most nurseries must be registered with the Care Commission. This means checks are carried out to make sure the staff are suitable to look after children. At least half of the staff in a nursery must be trained.
A check on the nursery premises is carried out to make sure the building is safe and suitable for children. After the nursery is registered, every year an inspection is carried out to make sure the nursery is continuing to provide a safe and suitable service and environment for young children.
There should be a set number of staff at each nursery to work with the children.
You should find one member of staff for every eight children aged 3 to 5, one member of staff for every five children aged 2 to 3 and one member of staff for every three children aged under 2.
You can ask to see the nursery’s registration certificate and latest inspection report.
How many children will there be in a nursery and what age range are they?
The average nursery will 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.
Nurseries are for children aged up to 5. Some nurseries have places for babies and toddlers as well as for children aged 3to 5. Some nurseries are part of childcare schemes, which also provide childcare for older children.
When are nurseries open?
Most nurseries open at about 8.30am and close at around 6pm. Some offer different hours for the children of people working shifts. Most nurseries are open all year round except for public holidays.
What about part-time childcare?
Many nurseries are happy to offer you part-time places. Often they organise these into morning and afternoon sessions.
How much does a nursery cost?
Nursery charges vary in different areas. Expect to pay between £80 and £180 per child per week. If your childcare provider provides early years education and is in partnership with your local authority, they will receive a grant enabling them to give your child a free part-time place from the term following their third birthday and until your child first becomes eligible to start primary school. Your childcare provider or Children’s Information Service should be able to give you more information about charges for childcare alongside this free place.
How do people find a nursery?
Visit the Scottish Childcare website to find out about nurseries in your area.
Is there any financial assistance for parents on low income or single parents?
Yes, you can apply for Working Families Tax Credit and/or New Deal.
Do children who live within the Stirling Council area get priority for a nursery/playgroup place over child who lives outside the area?
Yes.
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