Pre-school or playgroup

Pre-schools or playgroups provide care and most offer early education.
Pre-schools or playgroups can be organised by community on a not-for-profit basis, often with help from parents.
Sessions from 2 and half to 4 hours a day are offered, during term time only, and days may vary.
Children receive learning and development activities suitable for their age.
Some pre-schools are developing their services to offer longer sessions or full time daycare.
Most pre-schools provide places for between 24 and 28 children.
Minimum staffing ratios are 1:4 for children aged 2 and 1:8 for children aged 3 to 5.
Most staff are trained to work with children.

All pre-schools or playgroups who care for children under the age of 8 must be registered and inspected by the Office for Standards in Education (Ofsted).
All pre-schools or playgroups that provide part time early years education for 2, 3 and 4 year olds are inspected by Ofsted.
Parents can ask pre-schools for a copy of their Ofsted inspection report or go online.
Day nurseries can achieve ‘quality assurance’ with schemes recognised by the Government.

Hourly rates start from £4.00
Some pre-schools may ask to have paid a block booking in advance.
Pre-schools that are on the Hampshire County Council ‘Directory of Providers’ provide part time early years education for some 2 year olds (eligible families), and 3 and 4 year olds which is free to parents.
Financial support is available from Tax Credits or employer supported Childcare Vouchers depending on the family's income.

Services for Young Children