We have put together a list of the most frequently asked questions asked of us by our parents. Of course, if you have any further questions please do not hesitate to ask!
How do I book extra sessions?
Same day extra bookings must be made via email which is constantly monitored. Future extra day bookings must also only be made via email please – we endeavour to respond very quickly to all extra day booking requests. Please do not request extra day bookings with the room staff.
How do I pay for extra sessions?
Extra sessions will be added to the following month’s invoice. Please note that extra sessions can not be cancelled once booked.
What do we do if we are on holiday and do we still need to pay?
Please let the Nursery Principal or Deputy Principal know by email only if your child will be absent for holidays, as your child’s key person will be planning activities for your child and it helps them to be aware so they plan effectively for your child’s next learning steps. Please see terms and conditions relating to holiday payments. Full fees will still be required if your child does not attend due to holiday.
Do I need to let you know if my child will not be attending nursery?
Please contact the nursery to let us know as we are required to record all absence by 10.30am on each day at the very latest. Furthermore, it is important we are also aware of any communicable illness. Full fees will still be required if your child does not attend due to ill health.
When will my child be eligible for the nursery education funding?
All children are eligible the first full term after they turn three. In some circumstances funding may also be available from two years old, please contact us via email for more information.
How is the nursery education funding calculated?
The entitlement is 15 hours a week (term time only) for all 3 and 4 year olds. Some parents may qualify for 30 hours funding which is means tested by HMRC. The funding will be applied to your monthly invoice.
Can my child attend nursery if they are on medication?
This decision is made by the Nursery Principal – if there are no risks to other children, and the medication is prescribed by a doctor and one dose has been administered prior to attending nursery in case of any allergic reaction, then it will be possible.
What is your registration number and awarding body for tax credit information?
Ofsted are our awarding body, please see the Nursery Payment Information PDF issued to all parents for the registration number and further details.
How much notice do you require if I wish to cancel my child’s place?
One calendar month via email only.
How are fees calculated?
Fees are annualised and payable at the start of each month in advance.
How much notice do you require in order to permanently alter sessions?
If you wish to alter a booking pattern please submit a formal booking change request by email. No other form of communication to make a booking change can be accepted. There is a one month notice period for the reduction or cancellation of a booking pattern due to pre-planned staffing arrangements. Like-for-like changes or increases in booking patterns can be made with immediate effect, subject to availability.
How long will my child need to be absent from nursery if they are ill and do we have to pay?
Please see our exclusion policy. Full fees will be still be required if your child does not attend due to ill health.
What happens when my child is ready to move rooms?
Your child’s key person will advise you when the time arises and when settling in sessions are due to commence to ease your child’s transition. In addition we operate an open door policy and you can request to view any room at any time.
What food is provided for the children?
Breakfast, lunch and dinner. Snacks are provided between all meal times. Fresh fruit and water is available throughout the day. All food is cooked on site by our full time qualified chef.
What information should I expect to be given whilst my child is at nursery?
An online diary containing information, photos and videos about your child’s day at nursery. We hold parent consultations throughout the year, and communicate News and Events as they happen via our online App and email.
Do you have parents evenings?
Parent consultations are held continuously throughout the year. Should you wish to speak to anyone in the meantime please contact the Nursery Principal to arrange a mutually convenient time, or book directly via https://on.sprintful.com/child-progress-parent-meetings
Does my child need to wear a uniform?
There is no dedicated nursery uniform. Our Preschool and Foundation Class have the option to wear a nursery cardigan and varsity jacket. Some of our weekly extra-curricular classes can require specific clothing.
How do I inform you if I have changed my contact details?
Please email the Nursery Principal on nursery@astonpierpoint.com
How can I read you latest OFSTED report?
Please click on the OFSTED logo on the front page of website.
Why do I need to inform you where my child is going to school?
Transition into school is an important stage of your child’s life and we work in partnership with your child’s school to support this process including sharing of children’s learning journal and we invite reception teachers into our setting to meet the children in a familiar environment. We also take children on trips to see their future school to help prepare them as much as possible.
Do you accept childcare vouchers?
We accept all childcare vouchers and tax-free childcare payments – please note voucher payments must have your child’s full name as the reference.
Please note that it takes 5-7 days for us to receive childcare vouchers from the point they are sent via your voucher company. Therefore we kindly ask that all vouchers must be sent to us by the voucher company on or before the 24th of the month in order that they reach us by the start of the following month, in order to be counted towards the following month’s invoice amount payable. Any vouchers received after the 2nd of the month will then be allocated towards the following month’s invoice balance payable.
Policy on swapping sessions
Due to staffing arrangements and ratios, the exchanging or swapping of days booked under a permanent, regular ad-hoc, ad hoc extra days or a non-permanent booking pattern is not possible to accommodate.
