All children develop at different rates. We do not expect all children to be toilet trained. Whatever stage your child is at, we will work in partnership with you to support your child’s needs.
General FAQs
General FAQs
A list of some of the most common questions asked by our parents…
Does my child need to be toilet trained?
What happens if my child does not speak English?
We celebrate the fact that our families speak over 23 different languages. The best way to help your child is to build confidence in their home language. This will support their development of English. Our staff are skilled at supporting children who are new to English. We use pictures, gestures and simple words to help children communicate.
Can my child come to school if they are unwell?
If your child is unwell, then they need to stay at home. We do not want to spread virus’ to other children and staff. If your child needs Calpol, then they are not well enough to attend nursery. If your child has been prescribed medicine by a doctor eg. Antibiotics but are well enough to be at school, we can administer their prescribed medication.
Are fees still payable if my child is absent from nursery?
Yes, fees are still payable in the event of sickness, holiday or religious events.
Is there a free settling in period, when do I start paying fees?
We do not charge any deposit or administration fees. Fees are payable in full from your child’s first day at nursery. We will work with you to help your child settle as quickly as possible.
How do I apply for 30 hours childcare?
To find out if you are eligible, please visit https://www.childcarechoices.gov.uk/
How do I apply for FEE2?
To find out if you are eligible, please visit https://www.gov.uk/help-with-childcare-costs/free-childcare-2-year-olds
When can my child start at nursery?
- Babies from 6 months (Brookhill Nursery only)
- Fee paying 2 Year olds – From their second birthday.
- Free Entitlement 2 year olds – The term after their second birthday, i.e. September, January.
- 3 and 4 year olds – 15/30 hours free entitlement – The term after their third birthday, i.e. September, January
Does my child need to wear a uniform?
No, your child does not need to wear a uniform, however we do have nursery t-shirts and sweatshirts for you to purchase should you wish to. These are available from the office.
What should my child wear to nursery?
Please ensure your child is dressed in comfortable clothing that you do not mind getting messy and that is easy to manage when they are using the toilet independently. Also, please can your child wear shoes that they can take off and put on themselves, eg. No laces and that they have suitable clothing to be outdoors in all weathers.
Does it matter if I live in a different borough?
No, however if places are limited, they are offered out in the following order:
- Children with Special Educational Needs
- Children of current staff
- Siblings of children currently attending nursery
- Children that live in the Borough of Barnet
- Children that live outside the Borough of Barnet
Can my child sleep at nursery?
Yes, we respond to children’s individual needs. If your child is tired and needs to sleep, our staff will ensure they are made comfortable.
Do you teach phonics?
Yes. All children are taught Phase One phonics during their story time sessions. This helps them to develop the listening skills that will support later reading and writing.
How will you prepare my child for school?
The best way to prepare children for school is to develop their independence and resilience so they can cope with new challenges. We place a high priority on developing childrens’ communication and social skills. Children have access to a rich environment that enables them to learn across all areas of the curriculum.
Do you provide hot lunches?
Hot lunches can be provided at St. Margaret’s Nursery.
Brookhill Nursery and Hampden Way Nursery are packed lunch only.