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!
Do you accept 15 and 30 hours Funding for children from 9 months to 4 years?
We accept both 15 and 30 hours funding for all children starting from 9 months upwards. Our Fee Schedule displays the fees payable after funding has been applied to the fees.
Do you accept childcare vouchers and HMRC Tax-Free childcare payments?
We accept all childcare vouchers and HMRC Tax-Free childcare payments – please note voucher payments must have your child’s full name as the reference.
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 based 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 changed, swapped or cancelled once booked due to staffing arrangements made around them.
What do we do if we are on holiday and do we still need to pay?
Please let the Nursery Principal know via email if your child will be absent or on holiday, no later than 10am on the first day of absence for Safeguarding purposes. Advance absence notification will help your child’s key person as they will be planning activities for your child and it helps them to be aware if you are to be away so they plan effectively for your child’s next learning steps. Full fees are required if your child does not attend due to holiday, illness or general absence, due to permanent staffing arrangements.
Do I need to let you know if my child will not be attending nursery?
Please let the Nursery Principal know via email if your child will be absent or on holiday, no later than 10am on the first day of absence for Safeguarding purposes. Furthermore, it is important we are also aware of any communicable illness.
When will my child be eligible for the 15 and 30 hours funding?
Please find information here: https://www.astonpierpoint.com/parent-zone/funding-claims/
You are welcome to email us with any questions around funding.
How is the nursery education funding calculated?
The funding is applied to your monthly invoice and the invoice displays the balance amount payable. Please feel free to email us with any questions around invoices.
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 may 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 upon joining the nursery 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 either annualised or calculated on a daily rate basis, depending on the booking pattern, and payable at the start of each month in advance. Attendance is not possible if the fees remain unpaid.
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 policies. Full fees are required if your child does not attend due to ill health due to permanent staffing arrangements.
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 freshly prepared and 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 polo-shirt, t-shirt and jacket. Some of our weekly extra-curricular classes can require specific clothing such as Forest school, Swimming and some sports.
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 your latest OFSTED report?
Please click on the OFSTED logo on the home page of our 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 journals 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.
Policy on swapping sessions
Due to permanent staffing arrangements and also staff ratios planned in advance, the exchanging or swapping of days booked under a permanent or non-permanent booking pattern is not possible to accommodate.
