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Nursery Schools do not need to be registered with their local authority. Therefore there is perhaps even more emphasis on how the setting 'feels' to you.

However, they will be inspected by Ofsted.

As with any setting, be sure to take up references from current parents.

A current certificate of insurance should also be available, ensure you check it.

General Service:

• What are the opening and closing times and when do am/pm sessions start and finish?
• What holidays/closures are there?
• Is there any pre/after school and/or holiday care services?

Physical features:

• Are the care rooms of an appropriate size?
• Is the interior bright and well maintained?
• Are the premises clean?
• Is there any indoor play area and is it safe?
• Is there any outside play area and is it safe?
• If food is prepared on the premises is the kitchen appropriate and hygienic?
  

Equipment/resources:

• Does there appear to be a wide selection of equipment, books, games, puzzles etc. available?
• Does the equipment appear clean safe and well looked after?
• Does there appear to be plenty and varied consumable resources, pens, paint, paper, sand etc.?

Interpersonal issues:

• Were you warmly received and made welcome?
• Were the staff you met helpful, friendly, happy and well presented?
• Did you feel your questions were answered openly?
• Were the staff interacting well and involved with the children?
• Did there appear to be a range of age and experience amongst the staff?
• Were the children happy, settled and occupied?
• How is good behaviour encouraged?
  

Fees/Charges:

• What are the fees, are holidays and closures charged for?
• What meals/snacks are included?
• What about trips and outings?

Routine and activities:

• What is the daily routine?
• Are there examples of a range of activities being offered?
• How does the provision deliver the foundation stage?
• How does the provision meet the individual needs of children?
• How is children's progress assessed?
• If there is no 'on-site' outside play facilities how and when will children play outside?

Parental involvement/communication:

• How is parent/carer communication and feedback handled?
• Is there a key worker system in operation?
• Can the provision accommodate your child's dietary requirements?
• Is there a parent group?
• Are there any regular progress/development meetings?
  

Remember; ask for references from other parents, don't forget the 'feelgood' factor and if in doubt, try somewhere else.

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