What are Nursery Schools and Nursery Classes?
Nursery schools and classes are generally open during school hours and will offer a part-time place with most children attending one 2.5 hour session a day. They are staffed by qualified teachers and nursery assistants within an educational environment. They can be run by the local authority and attached to a school or they may be privately owned.
How much does a nursery class or nursery school cost?
Children who attend a nursery school or class are usually aged between 3-5 years old and would therefore be able to access funding for a free part-time place. However, some nursery schools and classes may offer extra care in addition to the one session a day and as such may charge for this service.
What will my child do at nursery school/class?
Nursery schools and classes work towards the Foundation Stage Curriculum. Through well-planned play and activities, children are able to develop skills such as language, literacy and communication, as well as being encouraged to work together and co-operate with each other.
How do I know my child will be safe and secure?
First of all you know your child best - look for a nursery class or school that you feel will suit your child. These services are subject to a rigorous inspection every two to four years by Ofsted (the office for standards and education) and you can ask to see their latest inspection report or view this on the
Ofsted webpage. You can also check whether or not a setting has taken part in an Investors in Children endorsed Quality Assurance Scheme. If not, they may be working towards one and parents are encouraged to become involved.
How many children will there be in a nursery school or nursery class?
Staffing levels within a nursery school or class may vary but as a general rule there are normally 2 adults to 26 children with one of the adults being a qualified teacher and the other a qualified nursery assistant.
How do I find a nursery school or a nursery class?
Ask Bury's Children's Information Service for more information. They can give you information regarding available childcare in your area and how to match this to your working hours. Here are the contact details:
Freephone: 0800 731 4611
Fax: 0161 253 5942
Address:
Children's Information Service
Hilton House
Irwell Street
Bury BL9 0HX
Visit the primary schools admission page - the admission to primary school booklet contains a full list of schools with attached nurseries. Please contact the schools directly for information regarding places.
