Pre-Schools or Playgroups

The facts

• Pre-schools or playgroups provide care and most also provide early education for children between three and five years old

• A pre-school or playgroup is a group organised by the community or voluntary groups on a not-for-profit basis, often with help from parents.  Some are run by the local authority

• They offer sessions from two-and-a-half hours to four hours, during term time, either every day or on several days a week

• Your child should experience learning and development activities suitable for their age which are based on the Birth to Three Matters Framework and Foundation Stage curriculum

• Pre-schools are a good way of extending your childcare and some are developing their services to offer longer sessions or full-time daycare

• Pre-school/playgroups sometimes offer wrap around care or work with local childminders give children the opportunity to access early education and fit in around parent/carers work/study commitments.

How can I be sure of good quality care?

• An Ofsted registered pre-school or playgroup is regularly inspected by Ofsted to check on the quality of the care and free part-time early education (if provided) is satisfactory

• Most pre-schools or playgroups will provide places for between twenty four and twenty eight children

• There should be one member of staff for every eight children aged three to five

• Most staff are trained to work with children or are mid-training

• Don't be afraid to ask questions 

• Download a list of useful questions for childcare providers 

What will it cost me?

£2 to £5 per session, but kept to a minimum. Some may ask you to pay for a block booking of half a term in advance.

Is it for me?

• My childminder can take my child to pre-school (pre-school/playgroup can supplement existing childcare arrangements)

• I think it’s great that they’ll mix and make friends with other children

• I don’t want to leave my child for longer than I need to

• I’ve got the spare time, and want to get involved with the playgroup and help out

• I want my child to have access to different toys, equipment and stimulation and early education

• My hours fit around opening and closing times or my childminder can drop off/ collect my child

• I feel happy leaving my child in a place where there are trained professionals.

Futher information and contacting us

For more information and details of pre-schools or playgroups in your area, contact our Family Information Service.    

Phone

0800 952 5678 (freephone)

0116 225 4890 (local rate)

Online

Email:               family@leicester.gov.uk

Website:          http://families.leicester.gov.uk/