Questions to Ask Your Local School-Based Nursery (Before You Decide)

Choosing a nursery is a big decision. And with the rise of school-based nurseries, many parents are being told this is the “best start” for their child.

But the reality is, not all settings are the same. And not all environments will suit every child.

So before making that decision, it’s worth taking a step back and asking the right questions — not just about convenience, but about care, development, and experience.

Because this isn’t just childcare.

This is the foundation of your child’s early years.

1. What are your staff-to-child ratios — day to day?

Not just what’s allowed on paper, but what it looks like in practice.

– How many children does each adult actually care for?

– Are ratios ever stretched?

– What happens if staff are off sick?

Ratios directly impact how much attention your child receives — and in early years, that attention matters.

2. How much individual attention will my child receive?

Every child is different.

Some need reassurance, some need encouragement, some just need time and space to settle.

Ask how staff ensure each child is seen, supported, and understood — not just supervised.

3. What does the day actually look like?

Try to get a real sense of the environment.

– Is the day structured like a classroom?

– Or are children given the opportunity to learn through play?

– How much choice do children have?

Different approaches work for different children — what matters is finding the right fit.

4. How do you support emotional development and wellbeing?

Early years isn’t just about learning numbers and letters.

It’s about building confidence, relationships, and a sense of security.

Ask:

– How do you support children who are upset or overwhelmed?

– Is there time for one-to-one reassurance?

– How do you help children settle and feel safe?

5. What opportunities are there for play, movement, and outdoor learning?

Young children learn through doing, exploring, and experiencing the world around them.

– How often are they outside?

– Is there access to sensory play, messy play, and movement?

– Are children encouraged to explore freely?

These experiences are essential for development.

6. How do you communicate with parents in practice?

You should feel informed and involved in your child’s day.

– Do you receive daily updates?

– Are they verbal, written, or both?

– How are concerns or progress shared?

Strong communication builds trust — and supports your child too.

7. How might this setting change as demand grows?

With increasing demand for places, it’s important to understand how the setting manages growth.

– Will numbers increase?

– How will that affect staffing, space, and attention?

Growth can be positive — but only if quality is maintained.

8. Is this the right environment for my child?

This is the most important question of all.

Some children thrive in structured environments.

Others need more flexibility, movement, and nurture.

There is no one-size-fits-all.

Final Thought

School-based nurseries can be a great option for some families. But they are not automatically the right choice for every child.

The best decision is an informed one — based on your child’s individual needs, not just what is available or convenient.

Ask questions.

Take your time.

Trust your instincts.

Because there’s no second chance at the first years of life.