FAQ

OUR FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

SOME QUESTIONS ANSWERED

Why do I have to complete an enquiry form?

Completing our Enquiry Form allows us to better understand your childcare needs and determine if we can offer you a place. Rest assured, your information is handled in compliance with GDPR regulations and is securely stored if you choose not to join us. By submitting the Enquiry Form, you agree to let us check your eligibility for funded hours. Therefore, it's important to ensure the accuracy of the information you provide. If you qualify for funded hours, we'll need your date of birth and NI number to complete our checks.

How much do you charge?

To determine our fees, please complete the Enquiry Form on the Private or Mixed Place Enquiry Portal. Our fees vary based on several factors. They're spread over 12 equal monthly payments. If you start after the middle of the month, you may pay for two months initially. If you commence after the first week of the month, your first month's fees will be prorated based on the remaining weeks in that month, potentially resulting in a higher initial invoice.

What is included in the fees?

Our fees cover meals, drinks, nappies, wipes, snacks, and extracurricular activities. However, if you attend a mix of Private and Government Funded sessions or qualify for a discount, you'll need to provide your own wipes and nappies. You're welcome to provide your preferred brands or bring pull-ups if necessary.

I hold a 6-digit code, but I work. What sessions can I attend?

Starting April 1st, 2024, all working parents are offered either Private or Mixed sessions. Please review the sessions we offer to determine the best fit. If you hold a 6-digit code and are not working, you're eligible for Government Funded sessions only. Visit our Gov Funded sessions section for more details. All 11-digit code holders are offered Mixed sessions unless on low income and one parent does not work.

Do I pay if my child doesn't attend?

Yes, fees are due in full for all absences, including sickness, holidays, and nursery closures. This includes Bank Holidays, early closures, or closures due to government and statutory guidelines.

Why must I pay the entire month's fees when my child starts mid-month?

This serves as a guarantee, but don't worry, any overpayment is rolled into the next invoice. The next invoice may be lower, and charges depend on the number of days attended in the first month. Our invoices cover the 1st to the last day of the month.

On occasions, starting after the month start does not guarantee a lower charge in the first month. This is because if you start after the month starts, your fees for the first month are not spread meaning that you are charged daily.

I registered but can no longer afford the fee. What do I do?

Visit the childcare choices website to explore potential government support options if you're working or studying. Remember, our statutory Notice Period to terminate or reduce your sessions applies when register with us. After six months, you can terminate or request a session reduction. If you've recently lost your job, please speak with us for guidance.

Can I change my Preferred Start Date?

Yes, but it must be no later than two weeks later. Starting earlier is possible, subject to availability.

When are fees due?

Childcare fees are due in full in advance before registering, then on or before the 28th of every month thereafter. We may grant up to a 5-day extension upon request after you've started with us, but we may ask for evidence of your salary or Universal Credit payments.

I am ready to join, how do I make my first payment?

You can find our bank details on our Fees Portal or by clicking the "Make a Payment" tab above. Alternatively, you can email or text us to confirm once you've made the payment.

Can I swap my sessions?

No, but you can book extra sessions as needed on an irregular basis or adjust your regular sessions. These variations are subject to our Notice Period and availability. You can book a maximum of three extra sessions every three months and up to six per year. If you require regular extra sessions, consider increasing your attendance, as it may be more cost-effective.

Can I claim Government Funding if I currently attend private sessions?

Yes, you can qualify for funding if you meet the eligibility criteria. Complete the Variation Form on our Parent's Portal to initiate the process. Funding is not backdated, so it's essential to obtain your code and complete the Variation Form promptly. If funding begins after the first of the month, you'll be charged privately for the non-funded weeks, often occurring in the summer term.

Do you offer discounts?

Discounts are available for some full-time fees, and we may occasionally offer sibling discounts for attending more than three full days per week.

I completed the enquiry form and visited over three months ago.

Please submit a new enquiry form, even if you don't plan to revisit and book or request a call back.

I still have questions. Can I speak to someone?

Absolutely. Please book a pre-registration call or visit after completing the Enquiry Form. We encourage you to ask as many questions as you need to make an informed decision about whether we're the right fit for your child's needs. This conversation will help you understand our operations better.

What happens if I make an overpayment?

Any overpayment will be credited toward your next invoice. If you find that the overpayment causes financial strain, you can request a refund from us.

I have made my first payment. Can I cancel my place?

Yes, you can cancel your place, but if you've already attended a settling session or started normal sessions, you'll be subject to our Termination Notice Period, which means you cannot terminate within the first 6 months of joining us. Early termination may be considered if you wish to cancel before your settling-in session, provided you can provide evidence of job loss. Please note that fees paid are non-refundable, and approval of your request is at our sole discretion.

I lost my job or moved after starting nursery. Can I cancel my place?

Yes, you can, but you'll still be subject to our Termination Notice Period, which means you cannot terminate within the first 6 months of starting with us. We may consider early termination if you've lost your job or moved more than 5 miles away from any of our nurseries, provided you can provide evidence. However, the approval of your request is at our discretion. If you're waiting for a place in another preferred setting, we advise against entering into an agreement with us as we don not offer temporary placement.

How do I pay?

You can pay your childcare fees using cash, childcare vouchers, or Tax-Free Childcare. Bank transfer or childcare grant payment is also accepted if you're a student. If your fees are covered by the college, we'll invoice them directly.

When should I make my first payment?

Make your first payment as soon as possible to secure your place. We allocate places on a first-come, first-served basis. Once we confirm your place, it will be reserved for 7 days. After this period, please check with us before making any payment, as availability may have changed.

What are the main points of your payment terms?

Cancellation or reduction of a private funded place is only permitted after 6 months of attendance, unless under exceptional circumstances at our discretion. You can submit your Termination or Reduction after being with us for 6 months. Our end dates are December 31st, March 31st, and August 31st. You can increase your sessions anytime, subject to availability, and change days once a year.

To terminate a place after six months of joining, us, you are required to give notice by completing the online termination form at least 8 weeks before the end of the current term to terminate at the end of the following term.

When can I terminate my childcare place?

You can terminate your childcare place six months after starting with us, provided you give notice at least six weeks before the end of the current term. This will allow the termination to take effect at the end of the following term.

Our Termination Dates are 31st December, 31st March and 31st August.

For example,

- If you wish to terminate on the 31st of December, we advise that you give notice by the first week of July.

- If you wish to terminate on the 31st of March, we advise you give notice by the first week of November.

- If you wish to terminate on the 31st of August, we advise you give notice the first week of February.

I am due to go back to work and rely on Universal Credit for my first childcare payment. Can you help me?

Yes, we can help. Complete the Enquiry form and book a visit or call for further assistance. You may also ask your coach for the FSF2 Childcare Cost - Job Centre Plus Agreement and Provider Claim form for additional support.

I work and hold a Funding Code but I don't want to attend Mixed sessions. Can I register with you?

No, as of April 1st, 2024, if you work, we can only offer you Private or Mixed sessions unless you or your partner are on low income and one parent is unemployed. We offer term-time attendance at a lower rate. Please review our Private or Mixed Place Sessions Structure for more information. We do offer Gov. Funded sessions to non-working parents.

I want to start part-time and increase at a later date. Is this okay?

Yes, it's possible if agreed upon before starting with us. We can offer you up to one month of part-time sessions and increase as agreed. This approach is often taken to help children settle gradually before parents return to work and to manage costs. If not agreed before registering, you'll need to provide appropriate notice to decrease your sessions after the first six months. Initially, you may pay more than usual as your first part-time sessions won't be spread out.

I qualify for government funding but can't obtain a code. What should I do?

Please double-check the eligibility criteria and contact the government advice line for assistance. This issue can often be easily resolved.

I have a code. When can I use it?

6-digit code: You can start the term after your child turns 2. If your child is 2 before the start of the term you wish to begin, you can start in the same term you obtained your code.
11-digit code: You can start the term after obtaining your code if your child turned 2 before the start of the term you wish to begin. However, you cannot start in the same term you obtained your code unless you join us privately. From September 2024, you can start the term after your child turns 9 months subject to obtaining the code the term before.

What are the term dates?

The term dates align with Leeds City Council Early Years Terms Dates, which are shared annually with all Early Years settings. These terms usually span:

Autumn: September to December
Spring: January to March
Summer: April to July
Additionally, there are 2 weeks of holidays in October, which are non-funded weeks.

When can I register for Government Funded Hours?

You can register from the term following your child’s 2nd or 3rd birthday until they start reception class or reach compulsory school age (5 years). If you have a 6-digit code, your child can start the term after their second birthday. If you have an 11-digit code, your child can start the term after you obtain your code and your child's second birthday.

From September 2025, working parents of children aged 9 months and over can apply for a 11-digit code.

Do I qualify for the Government Funded 15 or 30 hours?

To check your eligibility, visit the government or childcare choices website or complete our Enquiry Form and book a Call for guidance.

I qualify for the 15 hours FEEE. What's next?

Once you have your 6-digit Funded Childcare Code, complete our Enquiry Form and book a Visit. We'll handle the rest if you decide to register with us. If you work, check out our Private or Mixed Place section even with a 6-digit code.

I qualify for the 30 hours FEEE. What's next?

Once you have your Funded Childcare Code, complete our Enquiry Form via our Private or Mixed Place section and book a visit. We'll manage the rest if you choose to register with us. As of April 1, 2024, Government Funded only places are offered to non-working parents, while working parents will be offered Mixed Sessions.

Do I pay to attend the FEEE?

No, but if you work, you must join our Mixed Funded Place. Non-working parents must apply for Consumables Fee Waiver every term.

Why am I asked to pay for consumables?

Government Funding doesn't cover Consumables, which help us pay fair wages and remain viable.

I have more than one child. Do I pay Consumables Fees for each of them?

Yes, but we may not charge for more than 2 children. If you have more than 2 children attending, you can request a Consumables Fee Waiver. Working parents can get help from Universal or Tax Credit.

Can I send a packed lunch instead of paying for the consumables?

No, we don't typically allow food from home. Consumables Fees are due unless you qualify for a waiver. This is because they cover more than just meals, and there's no reduction for non-attendance like holidays or sickness absences.

When can I start?

If you have an 11-digit code, you can start the term after obtaining your Childcare Funding Code. For children aged 3 attending the Government Funded 15 Hours Place, you can start the term after they turn 3. No Childcare Funding Code is needed for 15-hour attendance at age 3.

I want to attend more than the 15 or 30 hours.

If you're a working parent, visit the Enquire For Private or Mixed Place page. For students, go to the College/Uni Enquiry page.

I am due to return to work and rely on Universal Credit for my first consumables fee payment. What can I do?

Speak to your work coach for help with childcare.

What if I start working?

You'll be moved to our Mixed sessions automatically. By joining us, you are agreeing to our Terms of Contract.

I completed the enquiry form and visited over 3 months ago.

Please submit a new enquiry form, even if you don't plan to revisit. Then book a call or request a call back.

When can I terminate my childcare place?

Our Termination Dates are 31st December, 31st March and 31st August.

For example,

- If you wish to terminate on the 31st of December, we advise that you give notice in July. - If you wish to terminate on the 31st of March, we advise you give notice in November.

- If you wish to terminate on the 31st of August, we advise you give notice in February.

I am ready to join, how do I make my first payment?

If you do not qualify for waiver, you can find our bank details on our Fees Portal or by clicking the "Make a Payment" tab above. Alternatively, you can email or text us to confirm once you've made the payment.

What if I can't afford the Consumables fee?

If the consumables fee poses a financial burden, we're open to discussing reduced or waived fees. We also offer alternative sessions for those unable to contribute toward consumables. Reach out to us to discuss your financial situation. You can apply for a Consumables Fees Waiver if you're unemployed or have recently taken responsibility for the child without receiving financial assistance. You'll need to reapply termly if you continue to qualify for a waiver. Submit a copy of your full Universal or Tax Credit report or other benefit proof. If you're employed, consult your work coach for available assistance. You might be eligible for Universal Credit to cover nursery fees, including consumables. Check the Gov. website for details. If you are a couple and only one parent work, we may be ale to offer you a waiver.

What are the Consumables?

These include meals, drinks, snacks, certain medications like paracetamol, sunscreen, and nappy creams, select parties and gift bags, specific trips/outings, and extra-curricular activities such as regular trips and Forest School. Exclusions are nappies or pull-ups, wipes, and some trips/outings.

When are the Consumables fees due?

Consumables fees are due before registering with us, then termly in advance or as agreed upon in writing. In some cases, we may allow monthly payments upon discretion. Refer to our Payment Terms for more details.

Consumable Fees are due by the last day of August, November and February each year.

Parents are to submit the Waiver Application Form before fees are due.

But my friend's nursery doesn't charge for Consumables.

Every organisation operates differently based on their financial planning. Your friend's nursery may offer different sessions or have a different funding structure. They may operate as a charity, a CIC or is fully funded by the Local Authority.

How do you calculate your Consumables charge?

As a private organisation, we don't disclose the specifics of our charges. However, we strive to align with other settings in our community and adhere to government guidelines to ensure fairness.

My child doesn't like to eat. Do I still pay the consumables fees?

Yes, consumables fees are due in full regardless of your child's attendance or eating habits unless you qualify for a waiver.

Can my payment date be changed?

You can request to align your Consumables Fee payment with your Universal or Tax Credit Payment. Provide evidence of your payment dates via email.

Can I join your waiting list?

Yes, complete the Enquiry Form, visit us, pay your registration and first-term consumables fees, and your place will be secured for the term after your child turns 2 or 3. However, if you're applying for a waiver, you can't join the waiting list but can register as soon as you obtain your code. By registering, you're entering a binding contract with us, subject to our termination notice period. Please review our Terms of Contract before registering.

I get other benefits. Can I still apply for a Consumables Fee Waiver?

Yes, submit a full report of your benefits for assessment. If you and anyone on the report are unemployed, we can waive your charge if you are on low income. If anyone on the report is employed, you must join our Mixed Sessions unless you qualify for a waiver.

I am unemployed but my partner works. Do I pay for Consumables?

Yes except on exceptional circumstances. If your partner is named on your benefit statement or report, you're required to join our Mixed sessions unless you are on low income. In this case, please check with us before completing the Enquiry Form.

Can I start before I qualify for Government funded hours?

Yes, you can join our private sessions until you qualify for funded hours. If funded hours start after the first of the month, you'll be charged privately for the non-funded weeks.

I do not work but my partner does. Can I register for Funded only sessions?

Yes, as long as your partner is named on your Universal or Tax Credit statement and has a low income. You'll need to pay for consumables in full. If you both work, you'll be moved to our Mixed sessions to receive government assistance with childcare fees.

I am waiting to start in a different nursery or school. Can I join you?

Unfortunately, we do not provide temporary sessions, and all new parents are expected to commit to a minimum of 6 months before terminating their childcare place. This Term of Contract is in place to maintain financial stability for our business and to provide consistency for the children in our care.

How do you know if I work or not?

Parents claiming government-funded hours only must submit their Universal or Tax Credit statement termly for consumables fee waiver eligibility checks.

Can I swap my sessions?

How can I access Financial Support?

If you're a student, reach out to your college or university to inform them about your childcare needs while studying.

If you're employed, seek advice from Universal Credit or check your eligibility for financial assistance by visiting the provided link or the government website.

When can my child begin?

If you're covering the fees privately, your child can enrol and commence once we've received your initial payment and registration fee.

For those funded by the college, your child can start as soon as your funding is approved.

If you're supported through the CGPS, present us with your grant approval letter and link us to your account. In some cases, early starts may be considered, contingent upon proof of application submission and a lack of alternative support.

At what age do you accept children?

We welcome children from birth at our nurseries. Additionally, children in full-time Reception Class can register for our after-school and holiday club.

What provisions should I supply?

We furnish all children with food, drinks, and snacks, and we don't permit outside food. For children with special dietary needs, we'll collaborate with you to establish a suitable plan.

Which schools do you provide pickups from?

Please contact us directly for information regarding school pickups.

How do I make payments?

You can settle payments through Tax-Free Childcare or bank transfer, and you may be eligible for government assistance to help cover your fees.

When can I end my enrolment?

Once you've registered with us and your fees are covered by the college or university, you can terminate your enrollment at the conclusion of your ongoing academic year, provided you give us four weeks' notice before its conclusion.

If you pay termly, you can end your enrollment on the 31st of December, 31st of March, or 31st of August. However, you cannot terminate within the same term you began, necessitating a minimum attendance of two terms. For instance, if you commence on November 1st, you can terminate by March 31st, contingent upon giving four weeks' notice before the term's end.
If you pay monthly, you must attend for a minimum of 12 months before terminating, subject to providing four weeks' notice before your membership renewal date.
Ad Hoc members have no notice period and can book as needed, though Permanent and Shift members are prioritized, so early booking is recommended.

How are payments managed?

If you're paying privately, fees are due termly or monthly in advance.

The college will directly cover 100% of your fees.

If we claim fees via the CGPS, 85% is claimed over 52 weeks from your CGPS account, with the remaining 15% billed directly to you. Payment frequency can be agreed upon weekly, monthly, termly, or annually.

What if my college or university grant is withdrawn?

You must furnish evidence so we can suspend or terminate your enrollment without additional charges. Failure to provide proof will result in direct invoicing and the application of our Termination Notice. This is at our sole discretion.

Does your service include pickups from school nurseries?

No, our after-school and holiday club is only available to children who have commenced full primary school education. Children under four or those who have not yet started Reception Class can register for our nurseries instead.

How do I access Childcare Funding while studying?

To access childcare funding while studying, start by contacting your college or university to inform them about your child's childcare needs during your studies. You may be eligible for Government Funded 15 or 30 Hours in addition to University and College Funded Sessions. Check your eligibility and obtain your Code promptly. Once your child turns 2, you must obtain the Childcare Funding Code to allow us to claim the funded hours or pay the difference between your college funding and our normal fees to continue attending our setting. This is necessary because college fees are lower than our standard fees, and without the code, we would operate at a loss.

When can my child start?

- If funded by the college, your child can start as soon as your funding is approved. You'll receive confirmation from your college with further instructions. In some cases, we may allow early starts, provided you can demonstrate that you've submitted your application and all required evidence to the college and have no alternative support available.

- If funded through the CGPS, you need to show us your grant approval letter and link us to your account. Early starts may be considered under similar circumstances, with proof of application submission and lack of alternative support.

I haven't received my confirmation email from the college, and you haven't received the contract. What should I do?

Please contact your college directly to inquire about the status of your application and confirmation email.

At what age do you accept children?

We accept children from birth.

Can I swap my sessions?

No, swapping sessions is not allowed. However, if you require an additional session, you can book and pay for it at the time of booking. If you need to attend college on additional days, such as for exams, you can request a Quote Form from your college to apply for additional funding to cover the extra session.

Can I change my sessions?

No, except in cases of permanent changes to your university attendance. You can change your sessions once per term by providing your college timetable. Temporary changes to sessions are not permitted, but you can book and pay separately for extra sessions if needed. There is no limit on the number of extra sessions you can book. If you are funded by the college and require additional sessions for exams, you must obtain a new quote form for us to complete and send for approval.

Do I need to pay to attend?

If your fees are covered by the college, you are not required to pay us unless you fail to apply for your government funding code. If funded through the CGPS, we will claim weekly and invoice you the difference monthly or as agreed.

When can I end my place?

After registering with us and having your fees paid by the college or university, you can terminate your enrollment at the end of your current academic year. This is contingent upon providing us with four weeks' notice before the academic year's conclusion. If your fees are funded by the College, you cannot terminate before the date specified in your College Childcare Agreement. If the college stops your funding, you will be personally liable for paying the full fees until the date stated on the college agreement.

How does payment function?

The college will directly cover 100% of your fees to us. If the college payments do not meet our full daily fee, we may waive the difference if you are currently unemployed until you become eligible for Government Funded Hours. Once you qualify, you must obtain your code and provide it to us to cover the remaining fees. Where parents do not obtain their code, they will be invoiced the difference with will be calculated from the date stated on the childcare agreement.

If we claim your fees through the CGPS, we will claim 85% over 52 weeks from your CGPS account, as fees are calculated to be paid weekly. The remaining 15% will be directly claimed from you, and you can opt to pay weekly, monthly, termly, or annually.

What if my grant is rescinded?

What should I bring?

You must provide nappies, wipes, and a change of clothes for your child. If your child requires special food or drink due to being under 12 months, you must supply this. Before bringing food and drinks to the nursery, consult with us for approval. Food cannot be brought to the nursery for children over 12 months old, although exceptions may be made for special milk such as plant-based or goat milk.

Can I register if my university days fluctuate?

Yes. As long as you have your university timetable at least two months in advance, you can register for Flexi Sessions and submit your bookings online. The agreed number of days must remain constant. Once you've submitted your Flexi Sessions booking, you cannot alter the booked days. However, you can separately book and pay for extra sessions outside our agreement. You will be required to deduct Bank Holidays and Staff Training Days from your booking if attending Flexi Sessions.

If I'm attending university for over a year?

You must annually apply for a University Grant or College Childcare Funding to continue attending these sessions. If you cease studying, you can switch to attending Funded Childcare or Private sessions.

Check your eligibility online or consult with us for assistance.