Hours of Business
We are open from 8am to 6pm, Monday to Friday for 49 weeks per year. The Nursery closes for 1 week in July and 2 weeks over Christmas and New Year. The School term dates and Nursery closure dates are displayed in our Cloakroom.
Early Learning & Childcare Funding (Free Hours)
Stepping Stones Nursery provides early learning and childcare (funded)spaces. You can book with us for your FREE 600 hours per annum. This can be used in a way to suit your requirements (across the course of the year or during term time only). You may choose to split your child’s funding with us and another setting. Please contact the Nursery for more information regarding this.
Childcare Vouchers and Tax Free Childcare (HMRC)
Stepping Stones Nursery accepts childcare vouchers and so assisting in reducing childcare costs for parents/carers. We are registered with various providers – for more information please contact us. We are also accepting payment via the HMRC Tax Free Childcare scheme.
Holidays
You will not be charged for your child’s place when the Nursery is closed for holidays (one week in July and 2 weeks over Christmas and New Year). You are allowed 2 further weeks holidays at no charge provided a minimum of 2 weeks notice has been provided. These 2 weeks must be taken as a full week or a full fortnight. In addition to this, you can take a further 3 weeks holidays at 50%.
Settling in Sessions
We encourage parents/carers to have their child attend settling in sessions for their child. These sessions are free of charge and will be arranged on receipt of your child’s completed enrolment form. Settling in sessions are designed to give your child the opportunity to get familiar with the environment, staff and other children. They are free of charge and would usually last around 2 – 3 hours depending on how your child is settling. You are welcome to wait with your child for their settling in sessions if you wish.
Fees
There is no minimum booking and you are not required to have the same booking every week. We accept bookings on an ‘as and when required’ basis and fixed bookings – we aim to meet the needs of parents as far as practically possible!
As and when required bookings should be paid at time of booking or on arrival on the day. Fixed and regular bookings must be paid by weekly or monthly standing order.
Please contact a member of staff to discuss your requirements so an accurate costing can be provided.