What you need to know........

We understand that some parents may be concerned about letting someone else look after their child. Due of this we very much appreciate how important it is for us to know as much as possible about your Child and their needs before they start. We very much see ourselves as partners with parents in the early education of children and actively involve parents as much as possible.

Prior to your child starting at Playmates you will have visited us at least once with your child to see how we run things and how our activities compliment the curriculum we work to. Any questions can be answered at this time, however, we also like the children to have at least one (preferably 2) 'Stay and Play' sessions, lasting for approximately an hour where the child has the comfort to know one of their parents is still with them if they become worried. We are available to discuss any problems over the telephone if this is more convenient.

Your Child will be appointed a Keyworker so that during visits we can discuss any special arrangements needed for your child, such as; dietary requirements, behavioural issues, toileting needs etc. Following discussion with Gail (our Administrator) your child will have been allocated sessions and our Welcome Pack will be sent out soon after, together with a Child Information Sheet which needs to be completed and returned before your child's start date. We ask for a £15 Registration Fee which will hold the sessions for your child. Included in your Welcome Pack will be a PE Bag for spare clothes, a water bottle with your child's name on, the Child Information Sheet, our Prospectus (unless you've already received one) and a Guide to the Foundation Stage Curriculum.

Your child's Keyworker will use the information given by you to build a secure relationship with your Child and give you a nominated person to whom you can discuss your child's needs or any concerns. Your Keyworker will meet and introduce themselves to you and your child and discuss with you the best way to settle your child into our Pre-school. By this point you will have been given an "All About Me Book", this details to us all of your child's favourite things and information to help us build that essential bond with each child as an individual.

If your child is not funded then you will have to pay for their sessions in advance. We supply an Invoice for you so you can pay either weekly, half termly or you can pay at the beginning of every session. We do not mind as long as you keep your fees up-to-date. Sessions are currently £9.60 for 3 hours.

If your child is older or has moved from another child care facility they may qualify to attend our Rising 5 sessions. These are designated sessions for the older children who will be going to school in the following September (2011). During these sessions the children get the opportunity to practice skills they will need during their Reception class. These include; having a packed lunch/snack, having P.E. lessons and structured practising of skills. Unfortunately the swimming lessons we used to offer are no longer available.

We have a uniform which is not compulsory but we do recommend purchasing some or that children come in suitable 'play' clothing. We cannot take responsibility for any loss or damage caused to clothing during your child's time at Playmates.

What about children with special needs?

Children with special needs are welcome at our Pre-school. Please discuss any issues or problems with our Pre-school Leader or Deputy when you visit us. Please do not be afraid to approach us if you feel your child needs a little extra support during their time with us, there are many ways we can help both at Playmates and at home. All our Staff have had Special Educational Needs training, however Natasha is our nominated SENCO and has had specialised training and is highly experienced in dealing with a whole range of issues from behaviour to speech.