Pre-schools and playgroups

Pre-schools or playgroups offer children between two and five years sessional care and are usually registered and inspected by Ofsted. They offer children the opportunity to engage in a range of activities and follow the Early Years Foundation Stage.

Sessions offered can be from two and a half hours to four hours during term time, some every weekday, others several days a week. Similar to day nurseries, staff must be suitably qualified, experienced and have a valid Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) certificate to ensure their suitability to work with children. Some groups may offer wraparound care to extend the sessions.