A little preparation.
A smoother start.

Children develop in different ways and at different rates. The EYFS helps me plan playful experiences and support each child’s next steps. Early Learning Goals are assessed at the end of Reception; they are not a checklist of targets for every toddler or preschool child. Explore our approach and read the parent guide to the EYFS.

We’ll meet, discuss routines and complete the contract, emergency contacts, health information and permissions. Bring any care plans and tell me who has parental responsibility. Before your child starts, please complete the All About Me form so I can get to know your family, their special people, interests, likes, dislikes and routines. Download the blank All About Me form (fillable PDF).

We agree a gradual approach around your child. Familiar routines and a comfort item can help. The first four weeks are a settling period under the draft contract.

Nappies, wipes and creams; spare clothes; waterproofs and suitable footwear; sun cream and a sun hat; any agreed comfort item and labelled medication.

Home-cooked food, snacks and drinks are included in the private fee. I have completed Healthy Eating for Toddlers training and was awarded the Eat Well Start Well Award. Tell me about allergies, textures and dietary needs before care begins and whenever they change.

I have completed Babyem Gentle Sleep Training. We discuss your child’s naps and routines together, with safe sleep always guiding care. We also work together on toilet learning, following children’s readiness and treating them with dignity.

I have completed Children’s Oral Health Advice for All through e-Learning for Healthcare. I work with families to support healthy habits and children’s oral health.

Protecting all children in my care, my family and one another is a priority. I ask every family to respect these illness arrangements and tell me about symptoms and any medicine given before arrival.

Temperatures: I do not accept children with a high temperature. If a temperature develops during the day, parents will be asked to collect promptly. Calpol is only used as an emergency measure for a distressed or uncomfortable child while waiting for collection, with written permission and in line with my medication policy.

Rashes: Please have any new or unexplained rash checked by a doctor before arrival. I will decline care until it has been checked and we have discussed the advice about attendance.

Sickness and diarrhoea: A full 48 hours must pass after the last episode of vomiting or diarrhoea before returning. This rule is strict. Three unusually loose or runny nappies within a few hours will lead to parents being asked to collect due to suspected diarrhoea. Please let me know about your child’s normal bowel pattern or any known medical explanation.

Read the full illness policy.

Allow time for handover within agreed hours. Tell me about changes to collectors in advance. Call promptly if delayed or if your child will be absent.

We share day-to-day information and discuss progress. Let me know about changes at home, health, contacts or other settings that may affect your child.

Private learning photographs and public marketing permissions are separate. We agree the sharing method and you can discuss or withdraw optional consent.

Speak with me promptly and privately. Formal EYFS complaints receive an outcome within 28 days. Safeguarding concerns can go directly to the relevant service.