1. What age range do you accept?

We welcome children from 3 Months up to school age. Our baby room, toddler rooms, and pre-school spaces are carefully designed to support learning and development at each stage.

2.What are your opening hours?

Our nursery is open Monday to Friday, 7:30am – 17:30pm, all year round except for bank holidays. 

3. How do you support child-led learning?

At Dream Childcare, we believe children learn best through play, exploration, and curiosity. Our environments are rich in natural resources, sensory toys, and low-level access areas to allow children to explore at their own pace. Monthly concepts and themed activities support learning while nurturing independence and confidence.

4.How do you support early literacy and language development?

We encourage early communication and literacy through:

• Baby Room Bookworm Club – sharing books and storytime ideas for home

• Apple Tree Cottage Literacy Club – providing a monthly book to enjoy at home

• Tapestry observations – sharing learning moments and ideas with parents

• Daily storytelling, songs, and interactive play that extend language skills

5. What meals do you provide?

We offer a weekly menu of freshly prepared, Plant based hot, balanced meals, designed to provide nutritious options that support healthy growth and development. Special dietary requirements are always accommodated.

6.How do you manage allergies and medical needs?

We take allergies and medical conditions very seriously. Parents complete an Individual Healthcare Plan, and staff are trained to administer medication where required

7. How do you communicate with parents?

We keep parents fully informed through:

• Tapestry observations – photos, videos, and learning updates

• Monthly newsletters – updates, monthly concepts, and activities to try at home

• Comprehensive handovers/ parent meetings – for feedback, progress discussions, and queries

• Open-door policy – we encourage daily conversations and ongoing communication

8. How do you support children’s emotional wellbeing?

We focus on secure attachments, nurturing relationships, and responsive care. Staff are trained to support emotional regulation, positive behaviour, and social development through play, mindfulness activities, and loving guidance.

9. How can I arrange a visit or enrol my child?

We welcome families to visit our nursery to meet the team and see our spaces in action. Contact us via phone, email to arrange a tour or discuss enrolment options.

10.How does the settling-in process work?

At Dream Childcare, we aim to make starting nursery calm, positive, and reassuring.

• Introduction visits: Before your child’s start date, you and your child are invited to visit the nursery to explore the environment, meet staff, and begin forming secure attachments.

• Gradual separation: Parents may stay initially, then gradually say brief goodbyes as your child gains confidence. Extra sessions can be arranged if needed.

• Aligned routines: We match nap, feeding, and comfort routines to home, and provide simple, engaging activities to help children feel secure.

• Emotional support: Staff work closely with parents to support anxious or unsettled children, helping them build trust and confidence.

• Communication: Key persons provide daily feedback, and parents are welcome to phone or message for reassurance at any time.

Our goal is for every child to feel happy, safe, and confident as they begin their nursery journey.

11.What are your staff ratios and qualifications?

At Dream Childcare, your child’s safety, care, and learning are our top priorities.

• Staff ratios follow EYFS guidance to ensure children receive individual attention:

  • Babies (0–2 years): 1 adult to 3 children

  • Toddlers (2–3 years): 1 adult to 4 children

  • Pre-school (3–5 years): 1 adult to 8 children

• Staff qualifications:

  • staff hold appropriate childcare qualifications

  • Our team includes fully trained paediatric first aiders

  • Continuous professional development ensures staff stay up to date with the latest EYFS practice, safeguarding, and child development knowledge

We are committed to providing a skilled, nurturing team so every child receives high-quality care, attention, and learning support.

12.Do you provide outdoor play?

Absolutely! Outdoor play is an essential part of our curriculum, supporting physical development, sensory exploration, and real-life learning experiences every day.

Little Pips Lodge:

• Undercover veranda – a sheltered outdoor area with soft mats, sensory play, and safe toys, perfect for all-weather adventures.

• Side garden – soft surfaces, gentle sensory elements, wind chimes, and climbing areas (currently under development), allowing babies and toddlers to explore safely.

• Regular outings – trips to local parks, woodlands, and farms encourage curiosity and confidence in real-world environments.

Apple Tree Cottage:

• Large undercover area – ideal for outdoor play in any weather.

• Faux grass garden – a safe, spacious area for running, games, and imaginative play.

• Pirate ship climbing frame and swings – perfect for developing coordination, balance, and confidence.

• Water play area – engaging sensory experiences that encourage curiosity and creativity.

• Raised play section – featuring large drums, a mud kitchen, and a sand pit to support imaginative, tactile, and collaborative play.

Across all spaces, children enjoy fresh air, active play, and opportunities to explore the world around them, building confidence, friendships, and a lifelong love of learning.