Day Nurseries

Searching for a day nursery?

You can view details of all Sefton day nurseries right here on the Sefton Directory.

What is a day nursery?

Nurseries provide group care for children under five years old – although a few are also available to care for older children. They are typically open from Monday to Friday between 8am and 6pm, although some offer extended hours, opening at 7am and closing at 7pm. Most nurseries are open all year round except for public holidays and they offer a range of flexible care options including full time, part time, morning and afternoon sessions.

Activities

Day nurseries offer a wide range of stimulating activities for children which are based on the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS). Some of the activities that the children will be able to enjoy include:

  • arts and crafts
  • books and stories
  • sand and water play
  • outdoor play
  • music and
  • singing

Registration

Day nurseries are registered with and inspected by Ofsted. This means that the day nursery will be checked to ensure that staff are appropriately trained and qualified and that the premises are suitable and safe. 

Ofsted registration requirements will specify the number of children that are allowed to be on the premises at any time and the ratio of staff to children.

Nursery Fees

A typical rate at a nursery in Sefton can be anything between £33 and £48 per day. Nursery fees vary by area and by individual setting. Fees for children under two years will typically be higher due to the higher staff ratios required. Many settings also offer some discount for full-time places and for siblings.

It is strongly recommended that you contact day nurseries directly to discuss their latest fees.

Most of Sefton's nurseries offer 15 hours of free education and childcare funding for three and four year olds and for some two year olds who meet the eligibility criteria. Ask the day nursery directly whether they offer funded places.

Things to think about when visiting a nursery

You will be the best judge of what is right for your child however the lists below may guide you on points to look for and what to ask.  Things to consider and questions to ask when looking for a quality setting:

  • Are you and your child made to feel welcome?
  • Do the children present look happy and involved in what they are doing?
  • Do the activities look interesting and inviting and are there opportunities for outdoor play?
  • Ask whether your child will have a key worker
  • Ask to see their registration and insurance certificates
  • What will be the cost of the childcare, what is included and how often do you pay?
  • Is there a waiting list? If so when will you be informed of a start date?

General points to consider

  • Are there lots of toys, books and play equipment?
  • Are the premises clean, well kept and safe for children?
  • Are the children able to move freely between activities and are they able to make their own choices?
  • Are different cultures positively represented in the toys, books and displays?
  • Are girls and boys encouraged to take part in all activities?
  • How will the provision meet any special needs your child may have? Think about equipment, access, skills, experience and training of staff.
  • Will you be given the opportunity to meet with staff to talk about your child and how will they share any records kept about your child with you?

Last Updated

Last updated: 02/02/2021

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