FAQs - General

What are your opening hours?
We are open 7.30am to 6.30pm five days a week except bank holidays. Although we will of course look after those children whose parents are delayed, we ask that you make every effort to observe these hours.

What are your carer-to-child ratios?

Under two years - 1-3
Over two years - 1-4
Pre-school (3-5) - 1-8

How far in advance do I need to put my child's name down for a place?
We advise parents to register their child approximately six months before joining.

Can I visit at any time?
Yes, but we would like you to call beforehand.

Where and when will my child nap during the day?
All babies have their own cots and can sleep according to their own routine. We provide floor mattresses for older children and encourage them to nap after lunch so they do not miss out on any activities.

Can my child bring his favourite toy to nursery?
We prefer them not to, as they can get lost or broken.

What kind of help will we get in settling in?
We advise that your child starts nursery a couple of weeks before you return to work to allow them time to settle into the new environment and get to know their carers. After initially starting with shorter days, these can then gradually be increased over the settling in period. Some children settle into nursery life quicker than others, so we encourage you to stay as long as you like and our carers will keep you fully informed about your child's progress.

What do I bring on my child's first day?

Please note that all clothing should be clearly labelled with your child's name.

Can you accommodate special needs and diets?
We are happy to care for children with special physical, learning or behavioural needs within our capabilities, and to cater for special dietary requirements. All we ask is that you provide us with all the necessary information about these needs at the outset.

Can I book a part-time place for my child?
Yes, please discuss the details of this with the nursery when you contact them.

Can I get extra cover if necessary and how much notice do I need to give?
We offer emergency/extra days subject to availability. We advise, where possible, that you enquire about these approximately two weeks in advance of the required date. Books of Happy Times Emergency Day vouchers are available to purchase at a discount and can be used at any time. All Emergency Day vouchers must be paid for upon booking in order to secure the place and are non-refundable.

What holidays are you closed for?
All UK bank holidays, and some days over the Christmas period depending on demand.

What do I do if I need to take my child out of nursery to go on holiday?
A holiday form must be completed for any days that your child will not attend the nursery. This allows us to schedule carers' holidays and extra days for other parents.

How much notice do I need to give to leave?
Our contracts stipulate 60 days' notice in writing.

What happens if I need to increase or decrease the number of hours required?
You can change your hours to suit your requirements. To reduce your number of days you will be required to provide 60 days' notice in writing. Should you wish to change/increase your days, we will arrange this for you as soon as a place becomes available.

Can you provide babysitters?
Your child's carer may be happy to baby-sit and you should discuss this with them directly. If after discussing it with them they are unavailable then please ask the centre manager who may be able to recommend another suitable carer. The arrangement is between the parent and the babysitter.

What happens if I am late picking up my child?
We advise parents to arrive to collect their child ten minutes before closing time. This allows time for parents and carers to discuss the child's day. However, we understand that sometimes a late pick-up is unavoidable. Please call to let us know what time you will arrive.

Are you registered and do you have inspections?
Yes, we are registered and are inspected by Ofsted.

Where can I get a copy of your latest Ofsted inspection report?
We have a copy of any reports from the last 12 months for you to download. Otherwise you can get reports directly from Ofsted or read the nursery's copy.