How to Apply for The Nursery
Our children settle quickly and flourish in The Nursery at St Margaret’s
Deciding on a nursery for your child is hard enough, the admissions process should be straightforward.
We are here to make your application for a place as stress-free as possible and the guide below will help you to understand the process and know what comes next. Please do be in touch if you have questions, we will be happy to help.
Visit Us
We are looking forward to meeting you
Our weekly 1-1 tours and Open Days are an opportunity for you to meet us, see the Nursery and learn more about what it means to be part of our community; from the care your child will receive, to the relationships they will make and the opportunities they are offered.
Registration
Complete and submit a registration form and fee
The registration form provides us with key information about your child and the sessions you need. Children in Lower and Upper Nursery are required to attend at least 4 sessions per week, with a recommendation of 6 sessions in Upper Nursery, and children in Pre-Reception (one year from starting Reception) are required to attend for a minimum of 8 sessions per week. Priority on a waiting list will be given to children looking to attend full time.
In the term after children turn 3, they may be eligible for 15 hours free early education. For families that access this funding, we ask that children attend The Nursery for a minimum of 25 hours per week.
Assessment
Getting to know you
Whilst there is no formal assessment required for children looking to join Lower or Upper Nursery, we will meet with you and your child to ensure there is a match between the care and education we offer and your child. Pre-Reception (3+) children are invited for an age-appropriate assessment and taster session.
After we have received your registration form and fee, we will be in touch to arrange either an e-meet or to invite you and your child into School. If your child already attends a Nursery or Pre-school, we will also request a confidential reference report.
Offers and Acceptance
How to secure your Nursery place
Offers are sent out within 2 weeks of the assessment meeting and, due to the high demand for places, need to be formally accepted within 2 weeks of receipt. A non-refundable deposit is required to secure your child’s place. This deposit (minus any costs that are still outstanding) is returned to you at the end of your child’s final term.
Preparing for Nursery
Welcome to The Nursery at St Margaret's
Before your child starts at The Nursery you will receive our Joining Information Pack which requests detailed information regarding your child’s medical history, dietary needs and emergency contacts. Our Nursery Team will then be in touch to invite you and your child into School for an "All about Me” session to ensure we fully understand your child's needs and to answer any questions you may have.
