Preparing for 2026: Your Nursery Questions Answered
As we move closer to our planned 2026 opening, we're receiving more questions from families about what to expect. We want to be as transparent as possible about our progress, our approach, and what comes next. Here are answers to the questions we're hearing most often.
Opening Timeline and Registration
When exactly will you open in 2026?
We're currently targeting a September 2026 opening to align with the academic year. This timeline allows us to complete all necessary registrations, staff recruitment, and facility preparations properly. We'll confirm the exact date as we progress through our planning milestones.
How do I register my interest?
You can join our priority list through our website. This ensures you'll be among the first to hear about our formal registration process when it opens. We're maintaining this list to understand demand and keep interested families updated on our progress.
Will there be a registration fee?
We're still finalizing our fee structure and will share details as soon as they're confirmed. Our commitment is to keep costs fair and transparent, with no hidden charges or unexpected fees.
How will you allocate places?
We're developing a fair allocation system that considers factors like siblings already enrolled, local families, and the order in which families expressed interest. Full details will be shared well before registration opens.
Curriculum and Learning Approach
What educational approach will you follow?
We're planning a play-based approach aligned with the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) framework. This means learning through exploration, creativity, and child-led discovery, with structured activities that support development across all areas.
Will children be prepared for Reception?
Absolutely. Our curriculum will naturally build the skills children need for school success - from independence and social skills to early literacy and numeracy. We believe the best preparation for formal learning is a strong foundation in confidence, curiosity, and communication.
What about outdoor learning?
Outdoor education is central to our vision. We're planning dedicated outdoor spaces and regular nature-based activities, weather permitting. We believe outdoor experiences are crucial for physical development, creativity, and wellbeing.
How will you support children with additional needs?
We're committed to inclusive practice and are planning our staff training and environment to support children with varying needs. We'll work closely with families and specialists to ensure every child can thrive in our setting.
Practical Details
What ages will you accept?
We're planning to accept children from approximately 6 months to 5 years, with flexible arrangements to meet different family needs. Age-specific details will be confirmed as we finalize our registration.
What are your planned opening hours?
We're working toward extended hours to support working families, likely 7:30 AM to 6:00 PM, Monday to Friday. Holiday provision and exact hours will be confirmed during the registration process.
Will you provide meals?
Yes, we're planning to provide nutritious meals and snacks as part of our service. We'll accommodate dietary requirements and allergies, and work with families to ensure children's nutritional needs are met.
What about nappies and other supplies?
We're still finalizing what will be included in our fees versus what families provide. Our goal is to make life easier for families while keeping costs reasonable.
Staffing and Qualifications
Who will be leading the nursery?
Our leadership team includes qualified early years professionals with extensive experience in childcare settings. We're committed to maintaining high staff-to-child ratios and continuing professional development.
What qualifications will staff have?
All our practitioners will hold appropriate early years qualifications, with ongoing training in areas like safeguarding, first aid, and child development. We're planning a culture of continuous learning and improvement.
How will you ensure staff stability?
We're planning competitive compensation, professional development opportunities, and a supportive working environment to attract and retain excellent staff. We understand that consistency is crucial for children's development.
Facilities and Environment
Where will you be located?
We're currently reviewing potential sites and will share the location as soon as it's confirmed. We're prioritizing accessibility, safety, and spaces that support our educational vision.
What will the environment look like?
We're planning bright, welcoming spaces both indoors and outdoors, with areas designed for different types of play and learning. Natural materials, comfortable spaces, and child-friendly design are all priorities.
How will you ensure safety?
Safety is paramount in all our planning. We're working through comprehensive risk assessments, emergency procedures, and staff training to create the safest possible environment for children.
Communication and Partnership
How will you communicate with families?
We're planning multiple communication methods including daily updates, regular newsletters, progress reports, and open-door policies for family involvement. Technology will enhance but not replace personal connection.
Will families be involved in the nursery?
We absolutely welcome family involvement and are planning various ways for families to participate in their children's learning journey. Community is central to our vision.
How will you handle concerns or feedback?
We're establishing clear procedures for feedback and concerns, with commitment to responsive, transparent communication. Your input will help us continuously improve our service.
Financial Planning
What funding can we access?
All eligible families can access government-funded hours (15 hours for 3-4 year olds, 30 hours for eligible working families, and 15 hours for some 2-year-olds). We'll help families understand and access all available funding.
Will you accept childcare vouchers?
We're planning to accept various payment methods including childcare vouchers, Tax-Free Childcare, and direct payments. We want to make payment as convenient as possible for families.
Are sibling discounts available?
We're considering various pricing options including potential sibling discounts. Details will be confirmed as we finalize our fee structure.
What Happens Next?
Current Progress
We're currently working through:
- Site selection and planning permissions
- Ofsted registration processes
- Staff recruitment planning
- Curriculum development
- Policy and procedure development
Staying Updated
The best way to stay informed is through our priority list and newsletter. We're committed to regular updates about our progress and any changes to our timeline.
How You Can Help
Your patience and support mean everything as we work toward opening. Sharing your feedback, spreading the word to other families, and staying engaged helps us create exactly what our community needs.
Our Commitment to You
We're taking the time to do this properly because you and your children deserve nothing less. We're committed to transparency throughout this process and to creating something genuinely special for our community.
We know waiting for something you're excited about can be challenging, especially when you're planning childcare arrangements. We appreciate your patience and promise to keep you informed every step of the way.
Have a question we haven't answered? Join our priority list and send us your questions. We're here to help you plan for your family's future childcare needs.