Pre-schools and playgroups give young children the opportunity to learn and play in small groups, usually for two to three hours in the morning or afternoon during term time only. You don't have to stay with your children once they are settled in but some parents stay to help out at the sessions. A fee is charged for each session. Pre-schools and playgroups provide a range of activities which varies from group to group depending on the accommodation they use, (many have to pack up daily, whilst others are able to leave equipment set up). They all provide an opportunity for children to develop their social, creative, physical and imaginative skills. Due to the short hours of pre-schools and playgroups and their closure during school holidays, they aren't always an ideal childcare option for full-time working parents, unless they're used as part of a childcare package, e.g. with a childminder or nanny, who would be able to drop off the child and pick them up. 

The Nursery Education Grant is accepted at most pre-schools/playgroups.

If you are looking for a pre-school or playgroup please contact the Family Information Service on Freephone 0800 073 1214 or email fis@bathnes.gov.uk

Other pages in this section:

• Registration
  
  
• Staffing and Qualifications
  
  
• Cost and Allocation of Places
  
  
• Questions to ask your Childcare Provider
  
  
• A Child's Point of View
  
  

Are you a daycare provider looking for information?

<<<back to Pre-schools