|
'Nursery'
is a general term used for a variety of daycare for pre-school aged
children. It can be full or part time. 1.
Private, Community or Voluntary Nurseries These are run by private individuals or companies on a commerical basis, or by community groups, or by voluntary organisations. Usually open 50+ weeks a year (but not Bank Holidays). Fee may vary. 2. Workplace Nurseries Run by or for employers, mostly for the benefit of their staff, although some offer 'open' places to outsiders. Fees may vary. Both of the provisions mentioned above are regulated by the Social Services Department of Oxfordshire County Council and must meet certain criteria laid down in part X of the Children Act 1989, the accompanying Regulations and Department of Health Guidance. Also many premises will have had to gain planning permission and all premises will have also had to meet Environmental Health and Fire Department regulations and standards. Once the criteria have been met and the registration process has been completed satisfactorily then Social Services issue a Registration Certificate and continue to inspect the facility on an annual basis to ensure they remain fit for registration. The third type of Nursery is not regulated by Social Services Departments. 3. Local Education Authority Nursery Schools and Nursery Classes Run
and regulated by the Education Department of Oxfordshire County Council.
Primarily an education provision for 3 to 5 year olds. Nursery Schoools
are purpose buillt wheras Nursery Classes conform to similar standards
and are within, or attached to, a First or Primary School. Open during
school terms only. All have an Admissions Policy which sets out the criteria for place allocation and most are heavily over-subscribed and usually can only offer part time (mornings or afternoons) place, except in cases of great need. Waiting list systems of some kind operate and parents of eligible children must actively register their children onto that list, usually on their 2nd birthday. They are staffed by qualified teachers and Nursery Nurses. Fees - none.
|
WHAT
IS A NURSERY?
