FAQs

Earlier this month (March 2023), the government announced that in the coming years, there will be some additions to the funding available to parents across the UK. They announced that:

• From April 2024, all working parents of 2-year-olds can access 15 hours per week
• From September 2024, all working parents of children aged 9 months up to 3-years-old can access 15 hours per week
• From September 2025, all working parents of children aged 9 months up to 3-years-old can access 30 hours free childcare per week

The government is yet to announce any further detail, however, when they do so, we will be able to share further information about how and when parents may be able to take advantage of these additional funded sessions.

Our nursery helps prepare children for school by providing a safe and nurturing environment where they can develop essential skills such as communication, socialisation, and problem-solving. Through play-based learning activities and quality teachable moments, children are introduced to early literacy and numeracy concepts, as well as basic routines and structure, which lays the foundation for a successful transition to school. Find out more about how we help to prepare children for school here.

The staff: child ratios for under 2’s is 1:3, 2-year-olds is 1:4 and 3 & 4-year-olds is 1:8.

Some settings have extra- curricular activities for example music and movement.  This will differ from setting to setting. In some settings this will be free of charge in others there may be a small charge. Speak to your Nursery Manager for more information.

If a child has additional needs, then we would work with both you and other professionals to ensure the appropriate support is provided.

Some settings will take children out on local walks with parents’ permission.  We use set ratios for walks and outings, and these are risk assessed beforehand.

You are welcome to call the nursery at any time.

We follow home routines as much as we possibly can in a nursery environment. Whatever stage your child is at in terms of weaning will be supported in the nursery.  We find out this information during the settling-in stage and ask that you keep us updated as things change.

On registration, we ask for your contact details including an emergency contact. We would use these to contact you in the event of an emergency, or if your child was unwell.

As long as this has been arranged in advance by you with the nursery team, and either a photograph has been provided or a password has been set up. We will not release a child without these important safety steps.

Some children do take longer to settle than others, but it is rare for a child not to settle at all.  However, we work closely with you to do what we can to help make the transition as smooth as possible.  This might involve you spending some more time in the nursery and/or extending the settling-in visits.

Your child will have a key carer who will be your first point of contact.  They are primarily responsible for following their routine, tracking their development and providing rich learning opportunities, tailored to meet their individual needs and supporting them to meet their next steps. There is also a key carer ‘buddy’ system in place to ensure there is always someone who knows your child and their individual needs, when the key carer is not available.

You will stay for the first visit allowing you to meet the team and chat to your child’s key carer.  This gives us the opportunity to find out the important things we need to know, such as routine, likes, dislikes etc. We ask you to provide a named bag for your child with some changes of clothes and any comforters your child might need with us.  We also ask you to provide a named sunhat and waterproofs and wellies.

During this important milestone, we would usually ask you to stay for the first visit with your child. By gradually building up the time your child is left with us, it helps to get them to get used to and to become more comfortable in their new environment. We will ask you about their likes, dislikes etc and you are welcome to bring in any comforters or other items from home.

Click here to read our blog on how our nurseries help children settle in.

There isn’t a set number as it depends on the individual child/family.  Generally, we would try to arrange around 4 settling-in visits.

We will liaise with you to find convenient times for you to bring your child a few weeks before your start date.

Click here to read our blog on how our nurseries help children settle in.

These are short sessions arranged prior to a child starting with us to help with their transition.  Initially you stay with your child, and then we gradually build up the time that they are left with us, before they start fully, to ensure that you and your child are feeling confident and ready to start nursery.

The minimum number of sessions per week that must be taken is two. Please see your nursery’s fee schedule for available sessions. Click here to find your nearest nursery.

In each of under 2’s rooms we aim to follow, as much as possible, the routine that you have in place at home. These will be discussed with you during the settling in visits. For older children, there will be a routine/rhythm to each day to include ample opportunities to play and learn, and to also meet everyday care routines, such as mealtimes, rest times and toileting. At the end of each day you will receive a verbal handover, where we will share any key information. There will also be information on ParentZone, our online journal.

During the settling in sessions, we will endeavour to find out as much as possible about your child, the support they might need and how we can best meet their individual needs. Each of our settings has a SENCO (Special Educational Needs Co-ordinator), who has received additional specialist training. Our teams will also work closely with external professionals and agencies, and in partnership with families, to ensure your child has all the support they need. We also have staff in our teams who are undertaking Level 3 qualifications in SEND.

Here at The Old Station Nursery Group, we understand that starting nursery can be difficult for both your child, but also for you and your family.

It is a big step, so we aim to support you every step of the way. Your child will be offered some settling in sessions before they start with us. The first one will involve lots of information sharing and you will be given the opportunity to spend time in your child’s room with them, getting to know the team and asking questions.

The staff will spend time with you and your child in order to get to know you both. You will be able to leave your child for a short period of time on subsequent visits.

You will be given a thorough hand over at the end of each session, and you are encouraged to call the nursery to see how your little one is if you have any concerns. We know it’s a daunting time for parents too!

Our nursery helps prepare children for school by providing a safe and nurturing environment where they can develop essential skills such as communication, socialisation, and problem-solving. Through play-based learning activities and quality teachable moments, children are introduced to early literacy and numeracy concepts, as well as basic routines and structure, which lays the foundation for a successful transition to school. Find out more about how we help to prepare children for school here.

Some settings have extra- curricular activities for example music and movement.  This will differ from setting to setting. In some settings this will be free of charge in others there may be a small charge. Speak to your Nursery Manager for more information.

Teaching and learning at The Old Station Nursery Group centres around the individual child; what they love and what motivates them to learn.

All nurseries in England must follow the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) which sets the standards that all early years providers must meet to ensure that children learn and develop well and are kept healthy and safe. It promotes teaching and learning to ensure children’s ‘school readiness’ and gives children the broad range of knowledge and skills that provide the right foundation for good future progress through school and life.

At The Old Station Nursery, we use the EYFS guidance to develop deliver a rich and meaningful curriculum, tailored to meet the unique and individual needs of all children.

Forest School is a unique approach to development, where children spend significant time outdoors, exploring and learning about nature and the environment.

At The Old Station Nursery Group, outdoor learning is important at all of our nurseries. Some of our nurseries are lucky enough to also have qualified Forest School Teachers to carry our Forest School sessions with the children.

Developed by Italian physician Dr Maria Montessori, these nurseries follow the national curriculum, but are taught using a unique approach, known as Montessori. By using this approach, children can freely choose the activities they want to do, allowing them to make individual choices whilst learning and developing at their own pace.

Yes, to do this, you will need to provide your eligibility code and information to each provider and you will not be able to access more than two sites in one day. Each provider may calculate your funding on either term-time only or all year-round basis, combined the providers cannot exceed the funded offer of 15-hour – 570 hours per year, and 30-hours – 1140 hours per year.

Yes, you can use the 30-hour free code from your previous nursery as long as it is still valid. These codes typically migrate with the child.

Earlier this month (March 2023), the government announced that in the coming years, there will be some additions to the funding available to parents across the UK. They announced that:

• From April 2024, all working parents of 2-year-olds can access 15 hours per week
• From September 2024, all working parents of children aged 9 months up to 3-years-old can access 15 hours per week
• From September 2025, all working parents of children aged 9 months up to 3-years-old can access 30 hours free childcare per week

The government is yet to announce any further detail, however, when they do so, we will be able to share further information about how and when parents may be able to take advantage of these additional funded sessions.

We do! We understand that paying for childcare can be challenging, so we offer multiple funding options at our nurseries, including 15 and 30 hours of funded childcare. If you’re unsure if you’re eligible, reach out to your nearby nursery to determine the best funding option for you. Alternatively, click here to read more about the options available to you.

You can be, if you meet the eligibility requirements. If you are in receipt of a qualifying benefit, you may be eligible for 15 free hours for 2 year olds. If you work and earn enough to satisfy the earnings requirement, you may be eligible for 30 free hours for 3 and 4 year olds. You may also be eligible for help through Care to Learn, Childcare Grant, and the Parents’ Learning Allowance. For more information, see our article on pregnancy and maternity for students.

If your immigration status says you have ‘no recourse to public funds’, you may still get free childcare for your 2-year-old. You must live in England and your household income must be no more than

• £26,500 for families outside of London with one child
• £34,500 for families within London with one child
• £30,600 for families outside of London with two or more children
• £38,600 for families within London with two or more children

You cannot have more than £16,000 in savings or investments.

Contact your childcare provider or check with your local council if you’re unsure if you can get free childcare.

All children in England aged three and four are eligible for 15 hours free childcare, meaning all families qualify for the scheme.

If your child is three or four years old, you get 15 hours free childcare or early education per week for 38 weeks of the year (during term time).

This comes to a total of 570 hours over a 12-month period. You can use the hours from 1 January, 1 April or 1 September following your child’s third birthday.

As all children aged three and four are entitled to 15 hours free childcare, you do not have to apply. Instead, contact your nursery provider which will apply on your behalf once you have shown them proof of your child’s age, such as their birth certificate. To find your nearest nursery, click here.

Even if you are not receiving a qualifying benefit your 2-year-old can still get free childcare if any of the following apply:

• they’re looked after by a local council
• they have a current statement of special education needs (SEN)or an education, health and care (EHC) plan
• they get Disability Living Allowance
• they’ve left care under a special guardianship order, child arrangements order or adoption order

Contact your childcare provider or local council to find out how to apply or if you need further guidance.

You will have access to this funding the term after your child turns 2 (see table below):

Birthday falls between                                      Term funding starts

1st September to 31st December             1st January

1st January to 31st March                             1st April

1st April to 31st August                                   1st September

Procedures to apply for 2-year-old funding differ across Local Authorities. You should speak to your Health Visitor, Nursery Manager or look online at your Local Authority website.

Your 2-year-old can get free childcare if you live in England and get any of the following benefits:

• Income Support
• income-based Jobseeker’s Allowance (JSA)
• income-related Employment and Support Allowance (ESA)
• Universal Credit, and your household income is £15,400 a year or less after tax, not including benefit payments
• the guaranteed element of Pension Credit
• Child Tax Credit, Working Tax Credit (or both), and your household income is £16,190 a year or less before tax
• the Working Tax Credit 4-week run on (the payment you get when you stop qualifying for Working Tax Credit)

2-year-olds can also get free childcare if they:

• are looked after by a local authority
• have an education, health and care (EHC) plan
• get Disability Living Allowance
• have left care under an adoption order, special guardianship order or a child arrangements order

You will receive an invoice for the following month, by email, towards the end of each month.

Fees are payable during absences, including holidays.

Fees are payable during absences.

There is no charge for any settling in sessions

To apply for 30 hours funded childcare, you must set up a childcare account online with the government to confirm your details, such as passport information and/or a recent payslip. If you wish to start your application today, click here.

If you are eligible, you will be given a code which you then give to your provider. You will need to confirm your eligibility and details every three months to keep the code. Read more here.

The 30 hours funded childcare scheme is for working parents and guardians with children aged 3* or 4 years old and who earn at least the equivalent of 16 hours per week at the National Minimum or Living Wage, but less than £100,000 a year. *Available the term after the child turns 3 years old. Read more by clicking here.

Tax-Free Childcare is a scheme where the government pays 20% of your childcare costs up to a limit. You can usually receive Tax-Free Childcare if you (and your partner if applicable) are: in work, on sick leave or annual leave, on shared parental, maternity, paternity, or adoption leave. Read more by clicking here.

At most of our nurseries, we offer our sessions in 5-hour blocks between 8am-1pm or 1pm-6pm, or a full day. This is to ensure that we are able to offer funded sessions to the maximum number of families in a sustainable way.

The Childcare Vouchers scheme was a scheme where some of your wages were converted into vouchers to be used for paying for childcare. Your employer could deduct to £55 per week from your wage, which would not be taxed or paid National Insurance on.

However, the scheme closed for new applicants in 2018 and was replaced by Tax-Free Childcare. Most people who received Childcare Vouchers can continue to do so. Read more here.

Yes, you can receive Tax-Free Childcare at the same time as 30 hours funded childcare if you are eligible for both. Read more here.

There are a few different government schemes that can help reduce the cost of your childcare. These include Tax-Free childcare, 15 and 30-hours funded childcare and through Universal Credit. For more information, please contact the nursery you are interested in, and the Nursery Manager will be more than happy to help.

Find your nearest nursery by clicking here.

Our nursery fees vary across the group. To explore pricing in detail, please contact the Nursery Manager at the location you are interested in. For more information, please click here.

If you remain eligible, your child can continue to receive the 30 hours of funded childcare until they start school reception class or reach compulsory school age. Read more here.

To apply for 30 hours funded childcare, you must set up a childcare account online with the government to confirm your details, such as passport information and/or a recent payslip. If you wish to start your application today, click here.

If you are eligible, you will be given a code which you then give to your provider. You will need to confirm your eligibility and details every three months to keep the code. Read more here.

The 30 hours funded childcare scheme is for working parents and guardians with children aged 3* or 4 years old and who earn at least the equivalent of 16 hours per week at the National Minimum or Living Wage, but less than £100,000 a year. *Available the term after the child turns 3 years old. Read more by clicking here.

Tax-Free Childcare is a scheme where the government pays 20% of your childcare costs up to a limit. You can usually get Tax-Free Childcare if you (and your partner if you have one) are: in work. on sick leave or annual leave. on shared parental, maternity, paternity, or adoption leave. Read more here.

At most of our nurseries, we offer our sessions in 5-hour blocks between 8am-1pm or 1pm-6pm, or a full day. This is to ensure that we are able to offer funded sessions to the maximum number of families in a sustainable way.

We are able to cater for different dietary requirements and follow strict policies and procedures for the management of any dietary requirements.

We provide breakfast, lunch and tea, together with morning and afternoon snacks, including drinks. All our nursery settings provide nappies and wipes which are included within the additional service charge, although you are welcome to provide your own if you wish to use a specific brand.

Some nurseries provide formula milk, alternatively, you would provide your own. Speak to your nursery manager to find out more.

We do not offer an alternative hot meal, however, if the main meal is refused, we would offer something like a sandwich and we do still offer a dessert. We would never let a child go hungry.

Most of our settings offer freshly cooked food which is made on the premises by our nursery cooks.  We have a few settings where meals are catered for by outside catering companies.  A copy of the menu is available from your Nursery Manager. Our menus offer a wide range of healthy, nutritionally balanced meals.

To find out more about how we encourage and promote a happy and healthy lifestyle, feel free to visit our dedicated webpage by clicking here.

We follow home routines as much as we possibly can in a nursery environment. Whatever stage your child is at in terms of weaning will be supported in the nursery.  We find out this information during the settling-in stage and ask that you keep us updated as things change.

Initially, this information will be collected on our registration form.  We then also ask you to complete an ‘all about me’ prior to the first visit so that we can discuss things such as allergies in more detail, face to face. The information will then be added to an individual Health Care Plan which the team will follow to ensure allergies and individual needs are met at all times.

Good nutrition is the building block of a healthy, happy child, which is why we only serve nutritious meals at our nurseries. Every dish is cooked from scratch, using fresh ingredients and organic vegetables, whenever possible. Our eggs are free-range, and we buy our food from local suppliers.

Our Nursery Cooks are trained using the Eatwell NHS guidelines to ensure mealtimes are delicious, packed with good things and enjoyable for children to eat. We can also cater for all dietary requirements and any allergies – and we’ll discuss them with you during your child’s settling in visits.

We are able to cater for different dietary requirements and follow strict policies and procedures for the management of any dietary requirements.

When registering your child we ask you to provide the contact details of someone we could contact in an emergency if we were unable to get hold of you.

We are able to administer prescribed medication, including epi-pens. In the case of an epi-pen, the staff team would receive the appropriate training from the health professional involved.

On registration, we ask for your contact details including an emergency contact. We would use these to contact you in the event of an emergency, or if your child was unwell.

As long as this has been arranged in advance by you with the nursery team, and either a photograph has been provided or a password has been set up. We will not release a child without these important safety steps.

Your child will have a key carer who will be your first point of contact.  They are primarily responsible for following their routine, tracking their development and providing rich learning opportunities, tailored to meet their individual needs and supporting them to meet their next steps. There is also a key carer ‘buddy’ system in place to ensure there is always someone who knows your child and their individual needs, when the key carer is not available.

Initially, this information will be collected on our registration form.  We then also ask you to complete an ‘all about me’ prior to the first visit so that we can discuss things such as allergies in more detail, face to face. The information will then be added to an individual Health Care Plan which the team will follow to ensure allergies and individual needs are met at all times.

All our nurseries take part in regular fire drills; therefore, the staff and children know exactly what they must do in the event of a fire. All nurseries have a robust and effective fire evacuation procedure.

If your child is prescribed medication, long-term or short-term, you will be asked to complete a medication permission form. Medication will only be administered in line with our medication policy. At the end of the day, you will be asked to sign to say that the child has had the medication and that you have been informed. This may also be completed on the online portal.

Your child’s allergy will be discussed with staff during settling in visits and a plan will be put in to place to protect them. If the allergy requires use of an epi-pen then staff will receive training on how to administer this if they do not already have this training.

All rooms and the kitchen display allergy sheets which has a photo of the child, their name, the days they attend, the allergy, symptoms of exposure and what to do in an emergency.

All children have a place card for mealtimes, which has their photo and details of their allergy (in red). Children who have an allergy will have their meal served on a red plate with a member of staff sitting next to them. This is all done very diplomatically and sensitively so that the child doesn’t feel singled out.

Each country in the UK has its own independent regulatory body for childcare.

• England: Office for Standards in Education, Children’s Services and Skills (Ofsted)
• Wales: Care Inspectorate Wales (CIW)
• Scotland: Care Inspectorate (CI)
• Northern Ireland: Early Years Teams

Office for Standards in Education, Children’s Services and Skills (Oftsed) regulate a range of early years and children’s social care services by checking that people, premises and the services provided are suitable to care for children and young people.

They issue licences to childcare and children’s social care providers that meet the required standards. If they find that providers are not meeting the required standards, they use our enforcement powers to ensure that the nursery will make the necessary improvements.

At The Old Station Nursery Group, we also have a Quality and Training team who review and monitor content, organise training and provide all the tools that we need to ensure for a safe, secure, and fun environment for all children and staff.

Our personalised tours are offered to provide an in-depth look at our facilities, get to know our wonderful nursery teams, hear more about our Brighter Learning Approach to learning, and to allow you to experience the atmosphere of our nursery first-hand. Our knowledgeable staff will be available during the tour to address any concerns and to discuss your child’s specific needs. Our ultimate goal is to ensure a smooth transition for your child and to create a welcoming and comforting environment from the beginning.

Book a tour online today by clicking here.

Nurseries are inspected by Ofsted at least every 6 years and newly opened nurseries are inspected within 2.5 years of opening. You can access Ofsted inspection reports by clicking here.

Yes, most of our nurseries are equipped with beautiful outdoor spaces that allow children to learn, be creative, and play outdoors. Each space is thoughtfully designed to offer various activities and resources, such as mud kitchens, balls, slides, trikes, and more. Most of our nurseries adopt a ‘free-flow’ layout, allowing children to decide whether they want to do an activity inside or outside. Children are encouraged to take advantage of these resources and participate in outdoor activities. Use our nursery finder to find out more about the facilities at our settings.

The staff: child ratios for under 2’s is 1:3, 2-year-olds is 1:4 and 3 & 4-year-olds is 1:8.

Some settings have extra- curricular activities for example music and movement.  This will differ from setting to setting. In some settings this will be free of charge in others there may be a small charge. Speak to your Nursery Manager for more information.

Yes, we do just ask that you let us know if you are coming to collect your child much earlier than the time they are booked in until, just so that we can ensure they are prepared. Please note that you will still be required to pay for the full session booked.

We provide breakfast, lunch and tea, together with morning and afternoon snacks, including drinks. All our nursery settings provide nappies and wipes which are included within the additional service charge, although you are welcome to provide your own if you wish to use a specific brand.

Some nurseries provide formula milk, alternatively, you would provide your own. Speak to your nursery manager to find out more.

If for any reason you know you are not going to be able to collect your child on time, we would ask you to arrange for someone else to come and collect them.  However, we understand that sometimes circumstances out of your control can make you late. We do ask that you contact the nursery to let us know.  A late collection charge may be payable as per our terms and conditions.

If a child has additional needs, then we would work with both you and other professionals to ensure the appropriate support is provided.

Some settings will take children out on local walks with parents’ permission.  We use set ratios for walks and outings, and these are risk assessed beforehand.

You are welcome to call the nursery at any time.

We follow home routines as much as we possibly can in a nursery environment. Whatever stage your child is at in terms of weaning will be supported in the nursery.  We find out this information during the settling-in stage and ask that you keep us updated as things change.

Some children do take longer to settle than others, but it is rare for a child not to settle at all.  However, we work closely with you to do what we can to help make the transition as smooth as possible.  This might involve you spending some more time in the nursery and/or extending the settling-in visits.

Your child will have a key carer who will be your first point of contact.  They are primarily responsible for following their routine, tracking their development and providing rich learning opportunities, tailored to meet their individual needs and supporting them to meet their next steps. There is also a key carer ‘buddy’ system in place to ensure there is always someone who knows your child and their individual needs, when the key carer is not available.

There is no charge for any settling in sessions

You will stay for the first visit allowing you to meet the team and chat to your child’s key carer.  This gives us the opportunity to find out the important things we need to know, such as routine, likes, dislikes etc. We ask you to provide a named bag for your child with some changes of clothes and any comforters your child might need with us.  We also ask you to provide a named sunhat and waterproofs and wellies.

You’ll be pleased to hear that we are open during the holidays, although this may vary depending on which nursery you are enquiring at, so we would suggest that you contact the Nursery Manager directly. All nurseries across the group are closed on Bank Holidays.

Most of our nurseries welcome children from 3 months old up until they are 5 years old, but this can depend on the location. To enquire about your local nursery, please complete an online form by clicking here.

All our nursery settings provide nappies and wipes which are included within the additional service charge, although you are welcome to provide your own if you wish to use a specific brand. Feel free to discuss this with the nursery team during the settling in visits. We also provide formula milk up to the age of 1.

We ask that parents provide a change of clothes (including socks and underwear) and appropriate clothing for the season (coat, wellies, hats and gloves). We do provide sun cream for the summer months, but you are welcome to provide your own.

Please remember to bring your child’s comforter if they have one and any medication they may need. You will be asked to complete a medication form for this before starting.

When to apply for nursery can be highly individual as it will depend on your own and your child’s circumstances, however it’s never too early, as sometimes we receive applications from parents before their child is born! We recommend reserving your child’s place as soon as possible to avoid disappointment. Reserve your child’s place by completing an online form.

Apply Now by clicking here.

Choosing a nursery can be difficult so our teams are here to help you at every step of the way. To choose a nursery, decide which type of nursery setting will work best for your child and your preferred location.  Browse locations using our ‘Find your nursery’ drop-down menu, or by clicking here. We also recommend that you take a look at the Facesheet which National Day Nurseries Association, NDNA, have put together to help parents choose the right nursery for them. Choosing the right nursery – NDNA – OSN Facesheet

Wrap around childcare means that a setting will provide childcare outside of its normal hours, for example through breakfast clubs or after school childcare. This allows parents to drop their children off before work and pick them up on their way home.

Here at The Old Station Nursery Group, we aim to provide the best support possible to all families and some of our nurseries also offer wraparound care for busy families!

Below is a list of our nurseries that offer childcare outside of its normal hours. Click on an individual location to find out more about fees and what clubs are available.

Faringdon

Colchester 

Walsall

Bridgetown

Henley

Warwick

Stratford

Peckham

Royston

St Nicholas

Granta Park

Fen Drayton

Colchester

Apricot

Stowmarket

Forest School is a unique approach to development, where children spend significant time outdoors, exploring and learning about nature and the environment.

At The Old Station Nursery Group, outdoor learning is important at all of our nurseries. Some of our nurseries are lucky enough to also have qualified Forest School Teachers to carry our Forest School sessions with the children.

Developed by Italian physician Dr Maria Montessori, these nurseries follow the national curriculum, but are taught using a unique approach, known as Montessori. By using this approach, children can freely choose the activities they want to do, allowing them to make individual choices whilst learning and developing at their own pace.

Yes, see below a list of our Montessori nurseries and click on them to read more about the available facilities:

• Sunhill Berkhamsted Day Nursery
• Sunhill Fen Drayton Day Nursery
• Sunhill Granta Park Day Nursery
• Sunhill Royston Day Nursery
• Townsend Montessori Maidstone
• Townsend Montessori Margate
• Townsend Montessori The Avenues
• Townsend Montessori The Grange
• Townsend Montessori Faversham
• Townsend Montessori Herne Bay

The different types of nurseries include day nurseries, pre-schools, independent nursery schools, private nursery schools, state-funded nursery schools as well as children’s centres.

The Old Station Nursery Group is made up of several day nurseries and pre-schools, as well as some holiday clubs, available for older children.

Our nurseries also follow different approaches to early years learning, such as Montessori or Reggio Emilia. This means that at some of our nurseries, we have slightly different facilities and resources, layout of the setting and structure of the sessions. Click here to find your nearest nursery and the facilities on offer.

Yes. To ensure that we can set some time aside and give you the best possible tour, please book an appointment in advance. To explore one of our nurseries, please book a tour by completing an online form here.

The Old Station Nursery Group follows the government’s guidelines and adhere to ratios carefully. In England as in many other countries, central government limits the number of children each member of staff in a nursery can look after through mandatory staff: child ratios. Please see below our current ratios:

• For under two-year-olds – one carer to three children
• For two- to three-year-olds – one carer to four children
• For three- to five-year-olds – one carer to eight children

Most of our nurseries welcome children from 3 months old – 5 years old, but this can depend on the location. To enquire about your local nursery, please complete an online form by clicking here.

Some of our nursery settings provide nappies and wipes which are included within the additional service charge, although you are welcome to provide your own if you wish to use a specific brand. Please contact the nursery directly to enquire. Find your nearest nursery by clicking here.

Google My Business (GMB), also referred to as a ‘Google Profile’, is a free platform by Google that helps businesses manage their online presence on Google search results and Maps. For parents at our nurseries, GMB allows easy access to important information like location, contact details, and operating hours. They can also find photos, read reviews, and ask questions, making it convenient to connect with our nursery community. GMB supports parents in finding quality childcare services.

All of our nursery locations have an online Google profile, meaning you can search any of these settings and recieve information stated above.

If you feel you have had a negative experience at one of our nurseries or have some urgent feedback for us,  please follow the procedure below so that we can ensure we rectify the problem as quickly as possible.

We believe that parents are entitled to expect courtesy and prompt, careful attention to their individual needs. We welcome any suggestions from families on how we can improve our services and will give prompt and serious attention to any concerns that you may have.

In the first instance, please discuss your question or concern with the child’s key carer, particularly if you have a concern regarding your child. If you are not satisfied with the outcome, please put your complaint in writing to the Nursery Manager. Your complaint will be acknowledged within 5 working days. The complaint will be investigated fully, and you will receive an outcome within 28 days. We will strive to resolve this sooner where possible.

If you are not satisfied with the outcome, you can escalate to our senior team to ask for your complaint, and the response you have received if relevant, to be reviewed. This will be done by senior management within 28 days of receiving your request. Please email letusknow@tosn.co.uk. If you wish to proceed with a formal complaint, you can view our policies here.

There are no limits on the amount of feedback that you share with the group, however on Daynurseries.co.uk, you will only be able to leave one review. On other sites that allow reviews, such as netmums and Google, you are able to leave as many reviews as you like.

All reviews are monitored and shared with our Nursery Managers and their teams, meaning a good word goes a long way!

Each review is carefully monitored and responded to by our experienced team, who ensure each piece of feedback is responded to, and any issues are dealt with accordingly. All reviews are public and are a great way to help families make a decision on which nursery to choose for their child.

Positive reviews are forwarded to the mentioned team members and nursery setting and are a great way for our team members to feel motivated, inspired and rewarded, as they work extremely hard to create the best learning environment for your child, whilst taking pride in providing high-quality care.

Netmums is the UK’s most relevant, inclusive, and supportive parenting community, welcoming millions of parents every month to their:

• • Forum
  • Parenting content
  • Recipes
  • Local listings

• Product reviews
• Email newsletters and courses

All our nurseries are listed on netmums.com, where you are able to explore each of the settings with the ability to leave a review and participate in conversations with other families on all things parenting. To find out more about netmums, click here.

Daynurseries is relied on by parents, families and carers when deciding on the important next stage for their children. It is recognised as an excellent source of providing information surrounding the nursery sector, providing many families with opportunities to explore local nursery settings, leave reviews and apply for jobs in the Early Years sector.

To find out more and to explore our nurseries on Daynurseries.co.uk, click here.

All our reviews are created independently by parents just like you. Leaving feedback about your experience at our nurseries can help prospective families choose the right setting for their child.

Positive reviews are a great way for our team members to feel motivated, inspired and rewarded, as they work extremely hard to create the best learning environment for your child, and take pride in providing high-quality care.

You can find an online profile for each of our nurseries on the following websites:

www.daynurseries.co.uk

www.netmums.com

www.google.co.uk

www.childcare.co.uk

www.familiesonline.co.uk

Here you will be able to explore each of our nurseries, with details on facilities, team members, contact information and what other parents have to say. You will be able to read and write reviews on these sites, as well as contact the nursery should you need to.

If you would like to leave a review for a specific setting, you can do so by clicking the ‘Reviews’ tab on the dedicated nursery page. To find you nursery’s page, click here.

If a child has additional needs, then we would work with both you and other professionals to ensure the appropriate support is provided.

At The Old Station Nursery Group we are passionate about Creating Brighter Futures Together and we believe that our teams have a transformational impact on the children, families and each other. TOSN is committed to delivering high-quality childcare through recruiting, training, and retaining the best staff. We work hard to ensure our staff are given every opportunity to develop their careers.

We are committed to providing training and development opportunities that have a tangible impact of the lives of our teams, by engaging and empowering staff to identify opportunities that are practical and meaningful to them. Each of our staff members complete core training when they join TOSN including Paediatric First Aid, Safeguarding, Food Safety and Hygiene, Fire Safety and Child Development.

Our teams have access to extensive high-quality training and development opportunities focusing directly on the needs of the children that they are working with, as well as leadership, management skills and mental health. We offer Level 2, 3 and 5 apprenticeships in Early Years and Childcare to our staff from our preferred provider partners, with practitioners also having the opportunity to complete an Early Years Foundation Degree top up and to progress to Early Years Initial Teacher Training. If you are interested in a role within the Early Years, feel free to visit our webpage on why you should work with us: https://www.theoldstationnursery.co.uk/work-with-us/

At The Old Station Nursery Group, we follow the key carer approach.

The role of a key carer is to help ensure that every child’s care is tailored to meet individual needs, to help the child become familiar with the setting, offer a settled relationship for the child, and build a relationship with their parents (EYFS statutory framework, 2021).

The key carer will work with you to help your child settle, feel confident and safe, as well as meeting their needs through monitoring and recording their development progress. Additionally, a key carer can support the transition within and beyond our nursery settings, offering a tailored approach for what is suitable for your child.

In the instance that the key carer is ‘away’, our buddy system will ensure that your child continues to receive constant support and will be available during: dropping off time, picking up time, open evening and at any other convenient time.

The parent app is used for a more personalised and detailed update of your child, including what they ate, what activities they took part in, wow moments and more. Our parent app helps to increase partnerships with families by allowing two-way communication between parents and your nursery.

On social media, rather than focusing on individual child updates, our platforms highlight special days and events that have taken place within the nurseries.

Through our parent app, parents can log in and view their child’s activities and ‘wow’ moments when it is most convenient for them. Parents can contribute to their child’s learning journey, make notes for their key carer, and strengthen their bond with the staff and setting all from their secure app.

If you’d like to find out more about how we use the Parent app, click here.

At The Old Station Nursery Group, most of our nurseries are using the ParentZone app to keep you up to date about your child’s learning and development. Although some of our nurseries use a slightly different app, it functions in a similar way to ParentZone.

On the parent app, parents are able to access information about their child’s day at a time that suits them best. Our parent app helps to increase partnership with parents by allowing two-way communication between parents and your nursery. Parentzone can also be used to view invoices and payments.

Our teams regularly update the app to provide parents with regular updates on their child and all of the exciting activities that they’ve been getting up to.

Further details on ParentZone (or the relevant parent app) are shared with parents before starting at nursery.

Facebook: @The Old Station Nursery Group

Twitter: @TOSNgroup

Instagram: @oldstationnurserygroup

Linkedin: @The Old Station Nursery Group

YouTube: @The Old Station Nursery Group

Pinterest: TOSNGroup

When you register your child at one of our nurseries, we will ask about several different permissions, including sharing photos and videos on our social media channels. These lists are monitored carefully by each nursery and are kept up to date via regular communication with families.

Through our social media, we aim to show as many insights as possible into nursery life, through photos and videos provided by our nurseries. All our nurseries aim to provide regular content for social media.

Our dedicated nursery teams work diligently to provide high-quality care, a safe and secure environment, and a fun atmosphere for all children. Our teams focus first and foremost on the children’s development and supporting them throughout the busy day. This means that sometimes our nurseries will prioritise uploading updates via our secure parent app.

Lots of fun! Every week, our nurseries share photos and videos with us of the children engaging in a variety of wonderful activities. Alongside this, we will also share our recipe of the week, monthly blog, competitions, polls, staff achievements and more!

Although some nursery-specific pictures may not be linked to your child’s specific nursery every week, we believe that sharing these special moments on social media supports togetherness in the Early Years by celebrating milestones together and sharing experiences from across a variety of different nursery settings.

The parent app is used for a more personalised and detailed update of your child, including what they ate, what activities they took part in, wow moments and more. Our parent app helps to increase partnerships with families by allowing two-way communication between parents and your nursery.

On social media, rather than focusing on individual child updates, our platforms highlight special days and events that have taken place within the nurseries.

To enrol your child in a nursery that uses the Brighter Learning Approach, you can visit The Old Station Nursery’s website and explore their locations. Contact the nursery of your choice directly to inquire about availability and the enrolment process.

Follow us on social media to discover photos from our nurseries taking part in purposeful play and developmental experiences by searching the hashtag #BrighterLearningApproach.

A “wow moment” typically refers to a significant or memorable experience that elicits a strong reaction or sense of awe from a child. It is often used to describe instances when a child makes a new discovery, achieves a developmental milestone, or expresses enthusiasm and wonder about something they have learned or experienced.

As part of the Brighter Learning Approach, we sometimes use stickers to celebrate ‘wow’ moments that link to something a particular child has done that is specific to their interests, age, and stage of development, prompting communication and conversations.

My Happy and Healthy self supports children’s social and emotional development. At our nurseries, we champion children’s holistic health and lay the foundations for a happy and healthy life. The three aspects, Magnificent Movers, Healthy Me, and Marvellous Me, work alongside one another to enhance children’s understanding of their physical and mental health and how to take care of themselves and others. Read more by clicking here.

Wonderful World teaches children about our Wonderful World, how to take care of it and helping the future generation of global citizens to understand the world they live in and to believe they can make a difference. Wonderful World consists of the aspects, Planet Protectors, Nature Explorers, and My Community and Me. Read more by clicking here.

Super STEAM explores Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts and Mathematics. Enabling early experiences in Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, and Mathematics (STEAM). Nurturing our next generation of investigators, inventors, and innovators. Read more by clicking here.

Mini Maths supports the development of children’s maths skills and is supported through the following aspects: Confident Counters, Meaningful Maths and Number Detectives. Read more by clicking here.

Confident Speakers and communicators boost confidence in children’s communication and learning, with learning aspects: Music Maestros, Budding Writers, and Terrific Talkers. Read more by clicking here.

Raving Readers encourages children to foster a love for books and reading. This enrichment is broken down into three key aspects: Super Story Tellers, Ready Readers & Book Bugs. Read more by clicking here.

Absolutely! The Old Station Nursery welcomes parents to visit their nurseries and learn more about the Brighter Learning Approach. Contact your preferred nursery to arrange a visit, where you can meet the staff, see the Brighter Learning Approach in action and ask any questions you may have.

Yes, the staff members at The Old Station Nursery undergo regular training and professional development to effectively implement the Brighter Learning Approach. They are knowledgeable about child development, the EYFS curriculum, and techniques to support children’s learning and growth.

The Old Station Nursery believes in fostering a strong partnership with parents. They provide regular communication channels, parent workshops, and opportunities for parents to actively participate in their child’s learning journey. Parental involvement is encouraged to ensure continuity between home and nursery experiences.

Yes, the Brighter Learning Approach enhances the opportunities children already have for outdoor learning. It allows children to connect with nature, engage in physical activities, and explore the world around them. Outdoor spaces are designed to inspire curiosity and provide opportunities for learning through play.

The Brighter Learning Approach recognizes the importance of social and emotional skills in a child’s holistic development. Through experiences such as sharing stories and role play, children learn to communicate, empathize, resolve conflicts, and develop self-confidence.

The Brighter Learning Approach not only offers enhanced learning opportunities, but also helps support our 4 key values, which are centred around:

Our Children

Learning

Our People

Our Families

The Brighter Learning Approach is just one of the ways The Old Station Nursery Group commits to Creating Brighter Futures Together.

To read more about our values, and how we deliver our mission, feel free to visit www.theoldstationnursery.co.uk/our-group/mission-and-values/ or click here.

Our 6 quality promises form the foundations of our approach, as we deliver high quality learning experiences and opportunities to all children.

Click here to read more about our 6 quality promises.

The Brighter Learning Approach is designed for children aged 0 to 5 years, covering the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) curriculum in a holistic and child-centred approach.

The Brighter Learning Approach provides real opportunities for children’s natural curiosity to be enhanced, with emphasis on hands-on experiences, child-led learning, and holistic development, promoting active engagement and critical thinking. It encourages exploration, creativity, and collaboration, and for individual learning to be challenged and extended.

The Brighter Learning Approach focuses on the key skills, knowledge and attitudes which we believe each child needs for an enriched, happy, healthy and successful life. It offers the opportunity to secure foundations for lifelong learning.

The Brighter Learning Approach is our own unique pathway to Creating Brighter Futures Together. Complementing the Early Years Foundation Stage, the Brighter Learning Approach enhances and enriches our core pedagogy and curriculum.