What about the kids?

There are lots of childcare options open to you. It is important that you choose the right one so that you can learn in confidence, knowing that your child is in good hands.

Where can I find good quality childcare?

Contact The Family Information Service (FIS) on 08451 297217 or email This e-mail address is being protected from spam bots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it for a list of registered childminders, day nurseries or out of school clubs in your chosen area for current vacancies and information the service provides.

What should I consider when looking for childcare?

This will depend on your preferences and your child’s needs, including:

• The age of your child
• If you child has specific needs
• If you prefer a homely environment
• Childcare near where you live
• Childcare near where you study
• If you prefer a large provision with lots of children
• If you need day care or out of school care
• Just for a few hours or all day?

What are my childcare options?

If friends or family are not an option for you, there are a number of options you can choose from. Please be aware - all childcare providers must be registered with Ofsted.

Day nurseries

Nurseries offer care for children under five years old and provide fun and learning opportunities on a full or part-time basis. They can be run privately or by a voluntary management committee. The size and the facilities they provide may vary. They should be registered with Ofsted. Check that staff are suitably qualified.

Childminder

A childminder is a person who is registered with Ofsted, cares for children in the childminder's own home. They make an agreement with the family and the hours vary accordingly.

Pre-school

Pre-school/playgroups provide an opportunity for young children to learn through play in a group setting on a sessional basis, usually for two to three hours in the morning or afternoon during term-time.

They should be registered with Ofsted and this is normally for children over two and a half years of age.

Crèche

Crèches provide occasional care for children under eight and are provided on particular premises on more than five days a year. Some crèches are in permanent premises and care for children while parents and carers are engaged in particular activities e.g. sports or training.

If you are accessing funding to pay for your crèche provision, please ensure that it is Ofsted registered.

Out of school clubs

Breakfast Clubs - Open during term time before school with the option of breakfast.

After School Clubs - Usually open between 3pm and 6pm during term time - where necessary, children are collected from school.

Holiday playschemes - Operate at varying times between 8am and 6pm during school holidays, often offering trips and outings.

All of the above should be registered with Ofsted.

Can I use more than one provider?

Yes, here is one example of how this may work:

1. Drop off child at a childminder

2. Childminder takes child to school

3. Child attends after school club

4. Child is collected from after school club by childminder

5. Parent collects child from childminder's home in the evening

What should I look for when choosing a provider?

• Are the children calm, safe and happy?
• Are the staff playing, listening and talking to children?
• Are there lots of fun activities planned to help children learn and play?
• Can children plan some of these themselves? Are there plenty of clean toys and equipment for children to use?
• Are the premises clean, well-kept and safe for children with a fun outside play area?
• Do parents have plenty of chances to say what they want for their children?

Take a list of questions with you. Good childcare staff expect you to ask questions and will be happy to answer them.

How can I help my child to settle into the nursery?

Take time before you start your course to settle the child slowly into the nursery or provider.

There may be a few tears to start with. This will soon pass and your child will gain confidence every day.

How will I pay for the childcare?

You may be eligible for funding to assist with your childcare fees depending on your circumstances. For example:

• Learner Support Funds
• Care to Learn

Do not start your child at any provider without confirmation that funding is in place.

Having problems with your childcare?

We have a specialist service that will assist you with any issues that you may be experiencing such as finding childcare; difficulties with your childcare provider; funding issues; practical issues at home with your children or help to organise your routines and study times.

Young parents have the benefit of a Personal Adviser at College so contact the Welfare Team for an appointment to come in for a chat.

Essential details to consider

• Establish what type of childcare you want
• Where you want the childcare?
• Days and times that you need childcare
• Find good quality Ofsted registered childcare
• How much this will cost?
• Can you afford it?
• Apply for funding. Do not start without it unless you can pay the whole fees.
• Take time to settle your child into the provision
• Come and see the Welfare team if you have any problems

For further information

0117 312 5000

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