Children

Schools

It’s a good idea to start gathering information as soon as possible, so that you can plan visits to schools and make applications on time.

You may find it useful to:
contact your local authority for information about schools near you
ask yourself which of the schools would best meet your child's needs
visit schools
read individual school prospectuses, achievement and attainment data and Ofsted reports

Your local authority is a useful source of information. Each year, local authorities produce a prospectus booklet (known in most areas as the 'Information for Parents' booklet). Usually published in the summer, the booklet is available free to parents.
It will have details on a number of important areas, including:

the application process and deadlines
the number of pupils at each school
how places will be allocated if the school is oversubscribed (the admissions criteria)

You can get a copy by contacting your local authority, or pick one up at your local library.
You can also find information on school holiday schemes and after school clubs from your local library or www.direct.gov.uk

Sure Start Children’s centres

Children’s centres are developed in line with the needs of the local community so no one children’s centre is the same. However, there is a core set of services they must provide:
Child and family health services, ranging from health visitors to breastfeeding support
most centres offer high quality childcare and early learning - those that don’t can help advise on local childcare options
advice on parenting, local childcare options and access to specialist services for families like speech therapy, healthy eating advice or help with managing money
help for you to find work or training opportunities, using links to local Jobcentre Plus offices and training providers

Finding your local children's centre
You can locate your nearest Sure Start Children’s Centre by contacting your local Family Information Service on 08002 346 346.

Under 5’s

All childminders and day-care providers caring for young children under eight - including playgroups, pre-schools, private nurseries, crèches and out-of-school clubs - must be registered by Ofsted on the Early Years Register (or in Wales, by the Care Standards Inspectorate).

Registration includes a criminal records check on anyone involved in providing childcare and an inspection of the premises to look at health and safety and educational welfare issues. Childcare providers caring for older children (aged five to seven years), must join the compulsory part of the Ofsted Childcare Register.

All schools and early years providers have to follow a structure of learning, development and care for children. This is called The Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) and it enables your child learn through a range of activities.

Information on child care for under 5’s and toddler groups can also be obtained from your local library or heath visitor.