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Choosing Crèches

Crèches provide short-time care for children aged birth to four years. They usually run for two hours per session.

What do they provide?

Crèches offer parents the ability to access training courses, discussion groups and workshops whilst their child is being cared for in a good quality play environment.

Crèches offer children the opportunity to play and explore the world around them whilst developing their physical, emotional, intellectual and social skills in a safe, caring and stimulating environment.

General Information

The cost and allocation would be decided by the organiser who will arrange registrations of children prior to any course, workshop or meeting taking place.

Parents/carers will provide as much information about the child to ensure a safe and happy entry to the crèches provision.

Ofsted registered crèches will have policies and procedures in place regarding confidentiality, equal opportunities, additional needs, safeguarding children, health and safety and any other relevant information.

Staffing/Qualifications

Registered crèches are run by experienced and committed staff, often from the local community. Many staff will have formal qualifications in childcare the most common being National Vocational Qualifications (NVQs). All staff working with children will have had a CRB check to establish their suitability to work with children.

Questions you may wish to ask at the crèches
  • What qualifications/experience do the staff have?
  • How do you cater for children with additional needs?
  • What ages are catered for?
  • Do you provide snacks for the children?
  • What hours do you operate?
  • Can children attend if they are on medication?
  • What happens if my child takes time to settle?

For further information contact the Family Information Service, details can be found on the right hand side. 

To download a PDF version of this information see right hand column.