Your Questions Answered

1. Forms and paperwork
   Our forms are included in the information pack which we will give you when you visit. If you are employed you may be able to claim back some of the costs of childcare through your tax returns or by paying with vouchers if your employer offers this service. We can provide written quotes or proof of payment if required. If you are a student you may be able to claim the cost of childcare from your training provider. You will need to speak to them and let us know the outcome.
2. Behaviour
   Our behaviour policy is available in the school office if you wish to see it. We use positive reinforcement wherever possible. Children will always be treated equally and with kindness and respect. There will be no smacking or other physical punishment.
3. Nappies
   Parents are asked to supply their children's nappies and wipes, however there will be an emergency supply in the nursery for which a charge will be made.
4. Food and drink
We will discuss with parents their preferred regime and diet. (Healthy snacks e.g. fruit, raisins) will be provided for which there will be a small charge, dependent on age.
We offer a free breakfast each day of either toast or cereals and then bread with butter or jam at tea time,unless you want to provide a more substantail meal.
• Babies - Dried milk can be stored at the nursery to be made up as required. Please bring food in sealed jars/tins. We are unable to ensure the safety of pre-prepared meals from home.
• Toddlers and older children - Packed lunches can be stored in the fridge. School meals are available.
5. Learning
   The Early Years Foundation Stage provides the framework for planning the curriculum. Staff encourage children to participate individually and in groups.
   All areas of development are included and the weekly plans are available for parents to see:-
   These include painting, drawing, construction, sand and water play, role play, books, singing, music and movement and many other things.
6. Dummies
   While dummies are not encouraged, we understand that some children need the comfort of a dummy at some times. We will take our lead from you.
7. Toys from home
   For the youngest children, we know that a favourite teddy or other toy may help them settle and we will try to ensure their safe keeping.
8. Sickness
   Children who are ill should not be in nursery. If they become unwell during the day, we will contact you or your nominee to take them home. Please let us know as soon as possible if your child is ill and what is wrong with them. If in doubt about how long your child needs to be away, contact your doctor's surgery, or ask staff who will be pleased to give advice. We follow the Authority's Health Protection guidelines.
   
9. Holidays
   We close for at least two weeks per year, approximately 1 week at Christmas and 1 week in August. There will also be occasional training days for staff and we will give you as much notice as possible so that you can make alternative arrangements. A retainer will be charged for family holidays.
   
10. Bookings and Cancellations
    Please read the 'Fees and Bookings' page .
11. Daily routines
    Wherever possible we will follow the routines from home, especially for meals and sleep times. Please let us know of any special requirements.
12. Sleep
    There is a quiet area where children can sleep. They will still be in the main area where staff can keep an overview.
13. Sharing information
    You know your child best. When you register we will ask for as much information as possible so that we can get the best picture of their routines, temperament, likes and dislikes and anything that might be affecting them. We in turn will pass on information about what is happening in school.
14. Staff
    All members of staff are qualified and have been chosen to meet the very high standards of care that we all expect for your children.
    They are expected to continually improve their knowledge and practice through training and appraisal. The whole service is led by an experienced, highly-qualified senior management team. Staffing ratios are ensured.
15. Accidents and emergencies
    Minor accidents will be dealt with by staff, who all hold First Aid certificates. In case of more serious accident or emergency we will deal with the situation and contact you immediately. Incidents are recorded and you will be informed of the circumstances and asked to sign the report.
16. Insurance
    The service is insured through Sheffield City Council
17. Equal Opportunities
    We welcome all people. Our Equal Opportunities policy is available in the school office.
18. Health and safety
    We operate in a very safe environment. The premises and equipment are inspected regularly. However we also rely on parents to ensure that doors and gates are closed and any safety concerns are reported.
19. Records and reports
    We keep registration records, records of children's activities and development and report regularly to parents. All documents are kept secure and confidentiality maintained. Parents are able to see their children's reports by arrangement and at least once every term. For children under three staff will provide written daily reports on what children have been doing, what food they've eaten, the sleeps they've had, nappy changes and any developmental milestones reached.
20. Outdoor play
    There is an extensive, fenced play area outside the nursery school with an enclosed area for under threes. We believe fresh air and exercise are beneficial to children and they are encouraged to play outside throughout the year.
    Photographs of the grounds and gardens can be seen on the Free Nursery Education section of the website.
21. Special Needs
    We welcome children with special needs and will work with parents to ensure that their child's needs are met. The Head and Deputy have joint responsibility for this area of work throughout the school.
22. Charges
    Please see our charging policy.
23. Opening times
    Our hours of opening are 8.00a.m.-6.00p.m. If you need childcare outside these hours please speak to the staff who will try to help you.
24. Clothing
    We want children to enjoy themselves here. They need play clothes so that they can paint and do other messy activities and when needed warm, waterproof clothes for outdoor play. Please put names in coats and jackets. Spare clothes are kept in case of accidents.
25. Complaints
    If you have any difficulties anywhere in school please speak first to a member of staff who will direct you to the appropriate manager. Misunderstandings can usually be explained. If matters are not resolved, please speak to the Headteacher. Formal complaints about childcare need to be sent in writing to the childcare subcommittee of the governing body. A complaints policy and advice are available from the nursery school office. If complaints are not answered satisfactorily by the school OFSTED can be contacted on 0300 123 1231

 

Please contact us for further information, phone 0114 272 2541 or by email enquiries@graceowennurseryschool.org