What should I look for in a nursery school?

[Rainatnight]

Visiting three potential nursery schools for DD this week. She's 2.5, and going to nursery this September, when she'll be three.

I tend to go strongly on 'vibe' and gut feel when dealing with this kind of thing, so I'd really welcome some ideas for more concrete things I should be looking out for!

Anything in particular you'd have wanted to know about your nursery, for instance?

Hopeful bump

For me it was low staff turnover, and a smaller nursery that was key. Also the one my daughter is at I have never seen a child crying, all the staff know all the children’s names, it’s a very loving environment.

Age-appropriate play

Cleanliness of toilets

How do they cover staff unexpectedly off sick?

Have a look at the menu & their food hygiene score

Is the method of nappy disposal acceptable to you?

How often are Parents evenings?

Take away a copy of their contract and look through it, compare all contracts.

Are the children clean & happy?

What’s the process if the adult collecting is unexpectedly going to be late?

Security measures in place, especially if a different/new and unknown adult to the staff have to collect - is it a password?

Do they have enough spare clothes in case you forgot to leave a second outfit?

What’s their toilet-training procedure?