Day nurseries and private nursery schools provide care, play and education for children under school age. Day nurseries typically open to fit with a working day between 8am and 6pm. They will usually take children from 2 months to 5 years. Some day nurseries also provide care for older children before or after school hours. Day nurseries are different from nursery schools and can be privately run, or workplace services. This type of care is ideal if you feel happier leaving your child with a team of professional staff trained in childcare who can always provide care even if an individual staff member is away. They are regulated and inspected by Ofsted and must comply with requirements on staff to child ratios.

Private nursery schools usually offer sessional care during term time.

The Nursery Education Fund ensures that children between the ages of three and five have access to a good quality foundation stage education.

Finding a nursery

Enter a postcode (with space) or the name of the place where you live:

Alternatively, contact the Family Information Service or complete our online form.

Working in early years

Information if you are interested in a career in childcare.