Frequently Asked Questions

What about meals and dietary requirements?

Nutrionally balanced meals are prepared on the premises by our qualified catering staff. The menus are displayed each week. We cater for special diets and the 'declaration of special arrangements' which is completed on entry will enable staff to be alerted to any special requirements. You will also complete a pupil information sheet which requests information on special food requirements.

What should my child bring to Nursery?

Comforters, rags, dummies are very important to some children and should come to Nursery. Please help us to identify them by labelling any items brought in.

A named drinks bottle containing water only.

As children have access to the outside play area, they must have outdoor clothes appropriate to the weather conditions. Provide sun hats and sun cream in the summer (parental permission is required for staff to apply sun cream), wellies in the wet weather, gloves and a scarf on cold days etc. Please name all clothing supplied.

Please provide a complete spare set of clothes plus underwear in case of accidents. We do have spares but it is better for your child to have their own clothes if at all possible.

What happens when it is my child's birthday?

Parents are welcome to supply a birthday cake and candles or a healthy alternative when it is their child's birthday for a small celebration.

Your child will wear a birthday hat all day, thus ensuring that they feel extra special. If your child is having a party, we are happy to assist with a class list and invitations may be placed in the trays for each child.

Will my child have a sleep?

All children have a quiet time after lunch, with story tapes or music. Sleep times depend upon each individual child and this information will be ascertained prior to them starting. Children are monitored every 10 minutes during their sleep time and the sleep room provides a quiet space with dimmed lights and blinds. A sleep board records the sleep times that relate to your child.

Will Nursery toilet train my child?

We are happy to assist parents with their child's toilet training. We can provide leaflets for additional guidance, if required. If you feel that your child is ready, then please inform us of their progress and we will try our best to follow the same routine at school. We do suggest additional clothes are brought in initially in case of accidents.

Can my child be given medication at Nursery?

Upon registering your child at Nursery, you will be asked to complete a medical form and it will be held confidentially by our nursing staff. If you wish medication to be administered during the day, then the child's name and dosage must be clearly labelled by a pharmacist and in its original packaging. Parents will be asked to complete a 'Parental Agreement for Medication at The Drive School' on these occasions.

What happens if my child is sick?

If your child is ill throughout the day they will be carefully monitored, their temperature taken and you will be called. If your child displays any viral signs, like diarrhoea or sickness it will be necessary for you to collect them as soon as possible to prevent the spread of infection. They will be unable to return until 24 hours have passed. If your child shows signs of any infectious disease i.e. chicken pox then please alert the staff as soon as possible.

What happens if my child has an accident?

Every effort is made to ensure that children are kept safe at all times, however, accidents can happen. If an accident occurs, first aid treatment will be given, an assessment of your child's condition made an account of the accident recorded in the accident book. All staff are qualified first aiders and there is a trained nurse on site during term time. When you arrive to collect your child, the incident will be explained. If your child is involved in an accident which may require hospital treatment, you will be informed immediately and arrangements made to meet you at the hospital. Please inform Nursery if an accident has occurred at home so it may be written in the Accident at Home Book.

Will my child have snacks between meals?

A snack of fruit, vegetables and whole grain cereals, bread, crackers and water or milk will be provided for your child mid morning and mid afternoon.

What do I do if I wish to terminate my contract with the Nursery?

Three calendar months notice in writing is required or three months fees can be paid to cancel a place in the Nursery.

Can I increase/decrease my sessions?

Yes, subject to availability we are happy for parents to change their child's sessions. If you require a one-off additional session then please give as much notice as possible and fill out the forms provided on the Nursery noticeboard.