Frequently Asked Questions

As early as possible - we recommend at least a year before your intended start date. A viewing is recommended before registration.

Children usually join in September following their 2nd birthday and spend two years with us. Places do become available mid-year so please enquire at sheen@smartpreschools.co.uk if you are looking for a mid-year start date.

Minimum 5 mornings per week (9am-12:15pm). Afternoon sessions are optional and booked a term in advance.

Priority is given in this order: (1) Full 2-year programme applicants, (2) Full-time applicants, (3) Siblings, (4) Registration date.

Before your child officially starts, we'll invite them for settling-in sessions to become familiar with our nursery, their key person, and other children. Your child will have a dedicated key person throughout their time with us who meets their individual needs and helps them adapt—whether settling in initially or preparing for school. We know they're ready to start when the nursery feels familiar and they're engaging with activities and other children.

A quick, reassuring goodbye works best—most children settle quickly once you've left. We'll always contact you if that isn't the case. If English isn't your child's first language, leave us a list of key words to help them feel understood. You can call anytime to check in. We'll provide a list of what to bring before the first day.

You'll need: completed registration forms, registration fee and place acceptance deposit, copy of birth certificate, immunisation records, emergency contacts, dietary and medical information, and funding codes (if applicable). Full details will be provided when you proceed with registration.

Yes, we accept 15 hours (universal), 30 hours (extended entitlement), 2-year-old funding, and Tax-Free Childcare. See our funding guide for eligibility details.

Please contact us to discuss sibling arrangements. We're always happy to talk through your family's specific circumstances.

All three classrooms (Bronte, Darwin, Newton) are mixed-age, following Montessori practice. Younger children learn from older peers.

No. We welcome children at all stages of toilet training.

Most full-day children have dropped their nap, but comfortable sleep mats are available if needed.

No - children bring packed lunches. We are strictly nut-free.

Our Headteacher, Carl, is our Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL). All staff receive regular safeguarding training and are DBS checked.

We are awaiting our first inspection since joining the SPEL group. Our Ofsted registration number is 2810444 and all reports are available on the Ofsted website.

Staff provide verbal updates at pick-up time. You'll also receive regular written updates and your child's Learning Journey documents their progress with photos and observations.

Yes. We offer sports camps during half-term holidays delivered by Liam from Headstart Coaching. Liam works closely with our Parent Representative to assess interest and demand, ensuring camps run where there is sufficient uptake from families. Further details are shared ahead of each holiday period.

You are welcome to make a request; however, class placements are determined by the school. We consider family requests where possible, taking into account individual support needs and developmental readiness. Final decisions are always made in the best interests of the child.

As a general approach, siblings are placed in different classrooms. This supports independence and allows each child to develop friendships and grow in their own way. All decisions are made in the best interests of the children.

Typically, around half of the morning cohort remain for the afternoon session. Numbers may vary slightly from term to term depending on family arrangements.