Frequently Asked Questions

At Woodend Country Childcare, we understand that choosing a childcare provider can be a daunting task, and we’re here to answer any questions you may have to help you find if we are the right fit for you and your child.

We’ve compiled some Frequently Asked Questions about our service below, but if you can’t find the answer you’re looking for, please don’t hesitate to get in touch.

Do you take childcare vouchers?

Yes, we do. We also accept tax-free childcare and funded hours.

Tax-Free Childcare is a scheme around which there can be some confusion, as it isn’t actually about tax at all. Essentially, it’s a top-up scheme to help working families pay for childcare with a boost from the government (to the cap limit).

The government also offers 30 hours government-funded childcare per week for 38 weeks a year. It’s designed to help with childcare costs and ensure that children have access to high-quality care and education.

For more information and how to apply, visit the government website. If eligible, you will receive a code which you can give to us via email or at drop-off, along with your national insurance number.

What are your opening hours?

We are open 7.30am until 5.30pm, on Monday through to Thursdays.

What meals and snacks are provided, and can dietary restrictions be accommodated?

We can provide Breakfast, Home-cooked Lunch and Dessert for an additional cost.

We prepare and cook all our food in house using locally sourced dairy and local meats produce. Find out more here. All dietary needs are therefore accommodated.

What is the policy on holidays, absences, and cancellation?

Full payment is required for the 49 weeks of the year. We are closed for 3 weeks; one week in August and two weeks over Christmas.

If at least four weeks notice is provided of holidays, we can deduct food costs.

How do you communicate with parents about their child’s progress and experiences?

Sourced at a London conference, my daughters and I brought back an up to the minute interactive app that allows parents a safe network to access information about their child’s day, at a time that suits them. Our staff upload videos and photos and observations, parents can then log on and view their child’s activity. At the same time, parents can contribute to their child’s learning journey and make notes for their key person, helping to build relationships between families and the nursery. We’ve had great feedback from our parents who’ve said they love to be able to get a full insight into their child’s day at the touch of a button.

How are children prepared for the transition to school?

We contact all schools to invite them to come and meet the children and have a chat. We complete an up to date report on your child’s development that can be shared with their new school. Our pre-school children wear a Woodend Country childcare uniform, to even help with this aspect.

How do you support children with additional needs or special educational needs (SEN)?

We work closely alongside parents and children. Claire has a wealth of experience with additional needs so any support needed, is given. We fully support with sourcing advice from advisory teachers and professionals. At Woodend, we embrace and celebrate every child’s uniqueness. Find out more here.

What is the child-to-staff ratio?

Three babies per staff member

Five Toddlers + per staff member

Eight children aged 3-4 years per staff member

Are we eligible for 30 hours free childcare for our 3-4 yr old?

Check the governments website to see if your eligible – www.gov.uk/free-childcare-if-working/check-youre-eligible

If you, or your partner, are on maternity, paternity or adoption leave, or you’re unable to work because you are disabled or have caring responsibilities, you could still be eligible.

Use the online childcare calculator for types of support available.

Are we eligible for 15 hours free childcare for our 9 month - 2 year old?

Check and see if you are eligible – www.gov.uk/free-childcare-if-working/apply-for-free-childcare-if-youre-working

Eligible working parents of children 9 months to under 2 years old will able to access 15 hours of free childcare.

Each parent, and any partner would need to be working and earning the equivalent of 16 hours a week at national minimum/living wage (at least f167 per week) and be under £100,000 net income per year.

Frequently Asked Questions

Learn more about Woodend Country Childcare