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FAQ

Selecting the perfect nursery school for your child is a significant decision. At The Square Nursery School, we are dedicated to providing the information and support you need to determine if our nurturing environment and educational approach align with your family's needs.
 

We know you’ll have many questions throughout this process, so we've compiled answers to some of the most common queries to help you get started..

  • How do I book a visit?
    To book a visit to The Square Nursery School, simply contact us via phone 0207 221 6004 or email play@thesquarenurseryschool.co.uk, or use the booking form available on our website. We will arrange a convenient time for you to tour our facilities, meet our staff, and see firsthand the engaging and nurturing environment we provide for our children.
  • How do I enrol my child at The Square Nursery School?
    To book a place for your child at The Square Nursery School, please follow these steps: Visit Us: Schedule a visit to our nursery by contacting us via phone, email, or through the booking form on our website. This will give you the opportunity to tour our facilities, meet our staff, and learn more about our programmes. Complete the Registration Form: After your visit, if you decide our nursery is the right fit for your child, you will need to complete our Registration Form. Submit the Form and Deposit: Return the completed Registration Form along with the non-refundable registration fee and deposit as detailed in the form. This will secure your child’s place at our nursery. Confirmation: Once we receive your Registration Form and deposit, we will confirm your child’s start date and nursery days. Due to high demand, you may be placed on a waiting list, but we will strive to accommodate your preferred schedule. Home Visit and Settling-In: Before your child starts, we will arrange a optional home visit with your child’s key person and schedule settling-in sessions to ensure a smooth transition.
  • What are your opening times?
    Our opening times at The Square Nursery School are as follows: Monday to Friday: 8:45 AM to 4:15 PM Weekends and Public Holidays: Closed
  • What documents are required for enrolment?
    To enrol your child at The Square Nursery School, we require the following documents: Completed Registration Form: This form provides us with essential information about your child and ensures we can meet their individual needs. Birth Certificate: A copy of your child’s birth certificate to verify their age and identity. Proof of Address: Documentation such as a utility bill or bank statement to confirm your residence. Medical Information: Details of your child's health, including any medical conditions, allergies, and immunisation records. Emergency Contact Information: Names and contact details of individuals we can reach in case of an emergency. Parental Consent Forms: Permissions for activities, outings, and medical treatment, as required.
  • Settling In at The Square Nursery School
    We offer parents and children settling-in sessions as standard. The first session typically lasts for an hour, and we ask that you stay with your child. This session is designed for both you and your child to become familiar with the nursery environment and to meet the staff team who will be working with your child. Settling in sessions provide an opportunity for us to learn more about your child’s interests and needs. This understanding helps our staff to provide the best support for your child during their time at nursery, making the settling-in process smoother for both parents and children. The subsequent sessions are usually longer to help your child get used to the nursery environment for extended periods. We gently encourage you to leave your child for short periods initially, gradually increasing the time as your child becomes more comfortable. We know that separation can be challenging for both you and your child, so we welcome parents to stay in touch as often as needed during this process. Our goal is to ensure a smooth and comfortable transition for everyone involved, providing reassurance and support every step of the way.
  • What should I bring for my child's first day?
    For your child's first day at The Square Nursery School, please bring the following items: A change of clothes to keep at the nursery Any comfort items your child may need (e.g., a favourite blanket or toy) A optional labelled water bottle We provide meals and snacks, so you do not need to bring any food items unless your child has specific dietary requirements, in which case please inform us in advance.
  • How do you help children transition from home to nursery?
    We help children transition from home to nursery by creating a welcoming and familiar environment. Our structured settling-in period allows children to gradually adjust to their new surroundings and build trust with their key person. We encourage parents to share detailed information about their child's routines, likes, and dislikes to help us create a comfortable and personalised experience. During the initial visits, parents are invited to stay with their child to provide reassurance. Gradually, as the child becomes more comfortable, parents step back to allow the child to interact independently. Our staff are trained to support children emotionally and socially, helping them feel secure and confident as they transition into nursery life.
  • What is your policy on comfort items (e.g., blankets, toys)?
    We understand that comfort items can provide significant reassurance for young children, especially during transitions. Children are welcome to bring familiar items from home, such as blankets or favourite toys, to help them feel secure in the nursery environment. Over time, as your child becomes more comfortable and confident in the nursery setting, they may rely less on their comfort items, but we will always respect their needs and preferences.
  • Do I need to provide nappies and wipes for my child?
    We supply wipes for all children at The Square Nursery School. However, parents are required to provide nappies for their child. Please ensure that an adequate supply of nappies is brought to the nursery to meet your child's needs throughout the day. We will inform you when your child’s nappy supply is running low, so you can replenish it as needed.
  • How does the nursery keep parents updated on their child’s daily activities and development?
    We believe in strong communication with parents. We use a special family app to keep you updated with photos and details of your child’s activities throughout the day. This allows you to share in their experiences and discuss their day with them. Additionally, we send out regular newsletters detailing our planned activities and any important updates. You are also welcome to call us at any time during the day to check on your child’s well-being and progress. Every term, we hold parent meetings where we discuss your child’s Learning Journal, provide a detailed Development Summary, and outline ‘Next Steps’ to support their continued growth and development.
  • Can my child sleep at nursery?
    We recognise the importance of rest for young children and provide a designated quiet area for them to sleep. We offer comfortable sleep mats and bedding, and children are welcome to bring their own comfort items if they wish. Our staff monitor the children closely during nap times to ensure they are safe and comfortable.
  • What meals and snacks are provided?
    We provide nutritious and balanced lunchtime meals through our partnership with the Yum Yum Food Company. Our weekly menu includes a variety of fruits, vegetables, proteins, and grains to ensure children receive all the essential nutrients they need for active learning and play. In addition to lunch, we offer a morning snack and an afternoon snack. We also involve children in preparing some of these snacks, enhancing their fine motor skills and understanding of healthy eating.
  • What activities and curriculum do you offer?
    We provide a balanced mix of adult-led and child-initiated activities, focusing on the importance of play. Our curriculum fosters independence and social skills through daily routines like coat hanging, hand washing, and table setting. Outdoor play in our garden includes planting, bug hunting, and nature exploration, nurturing curiosity and physical activity. Creativity is encouraged through arts and crafts and imaginative play. Weekly activities include: Monday: Music & Movement Tuesday: Spanish Wednesday: Cookery Thursday: Drama Friday: Show and Tell We cover topics such as jungle animals, planting, and science experiments to expand our children's understanding of the world. We support all toileting needs and provide nap facilities, working with parents to ensure a smooth transition. Daily feedback is given at collection times to keep parents informed. For more information, please visit our website or speak with our teachers, who are always available to answer any questions
  • How can parents get involved in nursery activities?
    Parents are encouraged to participate in a variety of nursery activities. We invite parents to volunteer during special events, join us for outings, and participate in classroom activities such as reading sessions or arts and crafts.
  • How do you communicate with parents?
    We maintain open and regular communication with parents through multiple channels. Our special family app provides real-time updates on your child’s activities, including photos and reports. We also send out regular newsletters with important announcements and upcoming events. Additionally, we engage in face-to-face discussions, phone calls, and emails to ensure clear and effective communication.
  • When are parent-teacher meetings held?
    Parent-teacher meetings are held every term to discuss your child's progress, review their Learning Journal, and set goals for the upcoming term. Additionally, we are always available for one-on-one meetings if you have any concerns or wish to discuss your child’s development in more detail.
  • How do you manage a child with allergies at The Square Nursery School?
    At The Square Nursery School, we prioritise the safety and well-being of all children. If your child has an allergy, we will work closely with you to ensure that your child's individual needs are met in line with our policies.
  • How do you ensure the cleanliness of the nursery?
    Cleanliness is a top priority at The Square Nursery School. Our facilities are cleaned daily. We follow strict cleaning schedules for all areas, including playrooms, bathrooms, and kitchen facilities. Toys and equipment are regularly sanitised, and hand hygiene is emphasised for both staff and children, with regular handwashing and the use of hand sanitisers.
  • What are your health and safety policies?
    We adhere to stringent health and safety policies to ensure a secure environment for all children and staff. Our policies include regular risk assessments, secure entry systems, and comprehensive staff training in first aid, safeguarding, and child protection. We conduct daily safety checks of all areas and equipment, and our staff-to-child ratios consistently exceed legal requirements to maximise children's supervision and interactions.
  • What procedures are in place for emergencies?
    We have comprehensive emergency procedures in place, including fire drills, lockdown protocols, and first aid response. All staff are trained in emergency procedures and first aid, with regular refresher courses. We have clear evacuation routes and conduct regular drills to ensure everyone knows what to do in case of an emergency. Emergency contact information for all children is readily accessible, and we have a designated area for safe assembly during evacuations.
  • What special events do you hold throughout the year?
    Throughout the year, we host a variety of special events including holiday celebrations, cultural festivals, sports days, and our annual paddling pool day in the summer. These events provide opportunities for children to explore new experiences and for families to engage with the nursery community, fostering a sense of belonging and togetherness.
  • How do you celebrate birthdays?
    We celebrate each child's birthday with a small acknowledgment during snack time, which includes singing the "Happy Birthday" song and enjoying a fruit snack. If parents wish to provide a birthday cake or treat for the class, we will gladly ensure each child can take a slice of cake or a party bag home, with parent permission. However, these items will not be consumed at nursery. Please ensure that any items provided are clearly labelled with ingredients to adhere to our allergy policies. Please note that we do not host birthday parties at the nursery.
  • What are the nursery fees?
    Our nursery fees are competitive and vary depending on the number of days and hours your child attends. For the most accurate and up-to-date fee structure, please contact us via email play@thesquarenurseryschool.co.uk
  • What is your policy on holidays and absences?
    We operate on a term-time basis. Fees remain applicable during personal holidays and absences to ensure your child’s place is secured. If your child will be absent, please notify us as soon as possible.
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