“Here, the journey unfolds in muddy boots and gentle hands — where learning grows in the light of connection.”

 

Is there a waiting list in operation?

Yes, we do have a waiting list and we strongly advise parents to be proactive about planning their child's care and education.

Our suggestion is to short list the settings which you consider will best suit your baby, toddler or young child needs (and yours), then arrange viewings to ensure the indoor, outdoor environments, opening times, staff meet your aspirations and requirements.

 

​What Should My Child Bring to Nursery?
To help your child feel comfortable, confident, and ready to explore, we kindly ask families to pack the following each day:
Daily Essentials
•     Lunch in a bento-style box or lunch bag
•     Water bottle
•     A small contribution of fresh fruit or vegetables to support our healthy eating policy
•     At least two full changes of clothes (more if your child is toilet training), packed in a drawstring bag
•     This should include: long trousers, long-sleeved tops, vests, jumpers, socks, and underwear

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Outdoor Clothing
We are a proudly outdoor-led setting, and we know families choose Young Haymakers for this reason. Children spend significant time outside in all weathers, so seasonally appropriate clothing is essential.
Spring/Summer
•     Sunhat
•     Sun cream
•     Cool, breathable cotton clothing
Autumn/Winter
•     Warm, waterproof outdoor coat
•     All-in-one waterproof suit and wellington boots (to remain at nursery)
•     Warm hat, mittens, and waterproof gloves (to be packed in your child’s bag each session)

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Do I need to provide nappies?
Yes please — for each session, we ask families to provide:
•     Nappies
•     Nappy sacks
•     Wipes
•     Any nappy cream your child requires (clearly labelled)

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What is the settling-in period?
We offer gentle, tailored settling-in sessions to support each child’s transition. During this time, you’ll be invited to stay and play alongside your child. Gradually, your child’s key person — acting as a secondary attachment figure — will begin to build a warm, trusting relationship with both you and your child, helping them feel safe, seen, and supported.

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​How will I be informed of my child’s development?
We believe in strong partnerships with families. You’ll be invited to regular ‘Working in Partnership’ (WiP) meetings to discuss your child’s development, share your insights, and collaborate on their learning journey.​​

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​•     The first WiP meeting is usually arranged six weeks after your child starts
•     Formal WiP meetings are held twice a year, with informal termly conversations to keep you updated

•     Your child’s key person will reflect on observations and plan meaningful next steps in consultation with you
•     You’re welcome to request a WiP meeting at any time

We also work closely with families to support key developmental milestones, such as potty training, behavioural support, and adjusting to new siblings.

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Do you accept childcare vouchers?
Yes — we accept most childcare voucher schemes. Your provider may request our Ofsted registration number, address, and bank details, which we’re happy to supply.
All children are eligible for 15 funded hours in the first full term after their third birthday. Some families may also qualify for two-year-old funding — please contact the nursery manager for details.

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​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​What food is provided for the children?

We are part of the nursery milk scheme and your child will be offered 1/3 pint of milk each day they attend nursery. We ask our parents to make a contribution to our healthy eating policy by providing fruit, vegetables and other healthy foods; this enhances the range we provide so the children can have a wider choice.

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​What information will I receive while my child is at nursery?
We keep families informed through a blend of formal and informal communication:
•     Termly ITM observations and next steps for nursery and home
•     Online learning journal
•     Parent meetings (twice a year)
•     27-month milestone report
•     Three assessments per year
•     Weekly newsletter
•     Daily updates via our communication boards
•     Frequent emails with news and reminders

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​What is your policy on changing sessions?
Sessions are booked at registration. Any changes to your child’s regular pattern require one term’s notice.
Extra sessions may be booked if space is available, but ad hoc swapping is not usually possible.

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What is the notice period if my child leaves the setting?
We require a minimum of one full term’s notice (7 weeks), not including any holiday periods. This allows us to manage transitions thoughtfully and maintain continuity of care for all children.

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Policy on changing sessions

Sessions are booked on registration, any alteration to this pattern will require one term's notice. Extra sessions can be booked if places are available but swopping sessions ad hoc is not usually possible.

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​When will my child be eligible for the Early Years Education Entitlement?

All children are eligible for 15 FREE funded hours in the first full term after their third birthday.

In addition some children will be eligible for two years old funding of 15 funded hours. 

For more information regarding this we are happy to give you a call prior your personal tour to explain how this works.

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Do you accept childcare vouchers?

Yes, we accept most childcare vouchers , your childcare voucher company will require our unique Ofsted registration number, address and bank details.

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How can I read your latest Ofsted report?

You can find our most recent inspection report on our Ofsted links page

 

How do I book extra sessions?

Contact the nursery manager directly to discuss availability.

 

Do I need to let you know if my child won’t be attending?
Yes — it is important to inform us if your child will be absent. The nursery manager has a statutory duty to record absenteeism, especially if it relates to a communicable illness.

Please either telephone in, email or log onto your child's EYLog account and give the reason for their absence. 

Please note: full fees still apply if your child is absent due to illness.

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