Early years recruitment is challenging across the UK. Learn how Tommies Childcare recruits, supports and retains caring nursery practitioners.

Continue reading

Discover what toddlers aged 2-3 do at nursery, from purposeful play and outdoor adventures to routines, friendships, independence and early learning.

Continue reading

In November 2025, Ofsted fundamentally changed how it reports inspection findings for nurseries, pre-schools, childminders, and all education providers across England.

If you have a child in early years care or are researching nursery options, understanding the new Ofsted report cards may help in making informed decisions about your child’s early education.

What Has Changed?

In November 2025, Ofsted stopped using single words such as “Outstanding” or “Good” to grade nurseries. Instead, parents will see colour-coded report cards showing separate grades for different areas. Ofsted says this gives parents a more detailed picture of how a nursery setting is performing.

In practice, this means that all nurseries, including all Tommies Childcare settings, are now graded separately on the following areas:

• Inclusion
• Curriculum and teaching
• Children’s welfare and well-being
• Behaviour and routines
• Achievement
• Leadership and governance

The new system uses a five-point grading scale:

• Exceptional
• Strong Standard
• Expected Standard
• Needs Attention
• Urgent Improvement

Safeguarding is also assessed. However, as Safeguarding is a basic requirement of all nurseries, it is judged simply as “Met” or “Not met”.

It is important to understand that the new report cards cannot be directly compared to the old Ofsted grades.

The grading scale and inspection methods have changed, so parents should read both historic reports and the new report cards (if available) when researching a nursery.

The New 5-Point Ofsted Grading Scale Explained

Under the new inspection framework, nurseries are graded on a five-point scale for each inspection area, rather than receiving a single overall grade. This approach is intended to give parents and families a more detailed insight into different aspects of a nursery’s standard of care and early education.

Here is what each of the new grades means:

Exceptional

This is the highest grade that can be awarded.

According to Ofsted’s guidance, it is reserved for practice “among the best nationally”. Nurseries receiving this grade are doing things that Ofsted believes should be shared with other providers to help them improve. This may include innovative approaches to early years curriculum or outstanding inclusion for children with special educational needs.

Strong Standard

This grade recognises excellent, consistent work that is making a real difference for children over a sustained period.

A Strong Standard rating indicates performance above and beyond what is simply required, with clear and positive impacts on children’s learning and well-being.

Expected Standard

The Expected Standard is shown in light-green on report cards and represents what Ofsted believes every nursery should be achieving.

This is not a minimal “pass”. Instead, Ofsted describes it as a high bar, meaning the nursery “is doing everything it should be doing” for children’s education, care, and safety.

Needs Attention

This grade indicates that a specific area is not yet at the Expected Standard.

Importantly, this is not a fail. It highlights where work needs to be done before issues become bigger problems.

Parents should read reports in full to understand exactly what needs improvement, whether that relates to record-keeping, outdoor learning and facilities, or aspects of daily routines.

Urgent Improvement

Ofsted states that this grade indicates serious weaknesses. Nurseries receiving this grade often face closer monitoring inspections, involvement from the local authority, and support plans to address concerns promptly.

Comparing “Expected Standard” Nurseries with Formerly “Good” or “Outstanding” Nurseries

Ofsted has explicitly said that these new grades cannot be directly translated back to the old four-grade scale (Outstanding, Good, Requires Improvement, and Inadequate). Therefore, parents should avoid trying to match terms like “Expected Standard” with grades such as “Good” or “Requires Improvement”.

How Nurseries Will Be Judged Under the New Report Cards

Early years providers are inspected using evaluation areas specifically tailored to what nurseries and pre-schools provide.

Below is a table that neatly explains what is inspected as part of each evaluation area:

Evaluation Area	What It Covers
Inclusion	How well the nursery meets the needs of all children, especially those with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND)
Curriculum and Teaching	Quality of the early years curriculum and teaching methods
Achievement	How children progress in their learning and development
Behaviour and Routines	How the setting supports positive behaviour, personal development, and daily routines
Children’s Welfare and Well-being	Personal development, well-being, and care for children
Leadership and Governance	How effectively leaders manage and improve the setting

Each of these areas receives one of the five grades on the new scale. This means a single nursery might have different grades across its report card.

For example, a setting could achieve Strong Standard for Children’s Welfare and Well-being, but Needs Attention for Behaviour and Routines.

Safeguarding is treated differently from other areas. Ofsted records this simply as “Met” or “Not met” because keeping children safe is a basic, non-negotiable requirement for all nurseries.

Report cards include short narrative paragraphs explaining why a particular grade was given and what inspectors found during their time when observing staff and children.

Ofsted inspectors are expected to consider children’s ages, the number of childcare places, and the needs of children with SEND when making judgements.

Parents should expect to see a mix of grades across a report card. It will be common, when looking at report cards, to see nurseries that are strong in some areas and need attention in others.

When a new report card is published, previous Ofsted reports for that nursery remain viewable but are listed lower on the provider’s page for historical reference. This allows parents to see both the current assessment and the inspection history.

We encourage parents to take time to read both the grades and the written explanations, rather than focusing only on colours or labels. The detailed descriptions give a rounded understanding of everyday life for children at that particular nursery.

How Parents Can Use the New Report Cards When Choosing a Nursery

The new system may feel more complex at first glance, but it actually provides more detailed information when comparing nurseries and making informed choices for your child.

When reviewing a report card, we suggest parents take this approach:

1. Check safeguarding first – Look for “Met” status, which is essential for any nursery you consider.
2. Review key areas for young children – Focus on children’s welfare and well-being, inclusion, leadership, curriculum and teaching, and achievement.
3. Read the narratives – The written explanations tell you far more than colour codes alone.
4. Note any lower grades – If you see “Needs Attention” or “Urgent Improvement”, read the detailed descriptions to understand the specific issues.

Pay careful attention to areas marked as needing work, but do not dismiss a nursery based on a single grade. Ask the nursery directly about the actions they have taken since the inspection and the support improvement plans in place.

Focus on the things that matter to you and your family:

• How does the nursery support early learning and language development?
• How does it promote natural and creative play?
• How does it help children settle?
• How does it communicate with parents day-to-day?

Ofsted report cards are important, but at the end of the day, they are only one part of your research.

We also recommend that parents do the following before choosing any nursery:

• Visit the nursery in person
• Talk to Nursery Managers and their staff about their approach
• Read the nursery’s own policies
• Ask about key person systems, SEND support, and daily routines
• Pay extra attention to the interactions between staff and children

Frequently Asked Questions

What Do “First Steppers” Actually Do at Nursery All Day?

Several years ago, we made the decision at multiple nurseries where we had the space, to create First Steps Rooms that cater for children aged 1-2 years. This was driven largely by the difference in development that we notice in children from 1 year onwards.

At this age, children are discovering their independence. Some are taking their very first steps, while others are already on the move, eager to explore everything around them. Our First Steps Rooms offer children the opportunity to develop and explore in a space suitable for their progressing development when at nursery.

The First Steps Room Environment

While the developmental stages of children aged 1-2 are different from those of our very youngest children, these children still require secure attachments to the adults around them to develop and grow.

This is why, in our First Steps Rooms, you will see many similarities to our Baby Rooms, with soft furnishings and low-level furniture as staple items. That said, there will be further development of this through more imaginative play, e.g. dolls or a small role-play kitchen, more messy and water play and larger items for growing hands, for instance, larger playing blocks.

Communication at nursery is a key area of development for children aged 1-2, as many begin using spoken language for the first time. They express themselves through gestures, sounds, and early words. We encourage this growth by creating a language-rich environment filled with singing, reading books, and simple conversations.

Routines

Most children around 10 months of age begin to feel heightened emotions that help keep them safe. This means that children become more wary of people they may not be familiar with.

A large number of children often begin their nursery journey at this age, which can make it difficult in navigating this change. Parents may find their child more clingy or upset at the prospect of you leaving them, and whilst this can feel worrying, it is, in fact, a positive sign of emotional development.

Our goal is to assist both you and your child to make the transition from home to nursery as smooth and nurturing as possible.

We are well aware that this can feel like a big change when children move from receiving one-to-one care at home to a nursery environment where one Nursery Practitioner cares for three babies. To help with this transition, we implement several carefully planned approaches:

• An extended settling-in process designed to help children build positive relationships and feel secure enough to separate from their parent or carer when their nursery journey begins.
• For children who are exclusively breastfed but require a bottle at nursery, we kindly ask parents to prepare their child to accept a bottle before their child commences attendance. This helps our nursery team effectively meet your child’s feeding needs.
• Lastly, we request parental support in managing sleep associations that cannot be replicated in the nursery environment, such as breastfeeding to sleep, rocking, or pushchair sleep routines. While we provide reassurance and comfort during nap times, easing these transitions at home before starting at nursery greatly benefits your child’s ability to settle confidently in our care.

Early Learning in the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS)

In a First Steps Room, where children may be beginning or continuing their journey in a nursery setting, the attachment stage, typically developing around 8-12 months, plays a crucial role in how children settle, explore, and build relationships.

At this stage, children begin to form strong emotional bonds with familiar adults. They start to recognise who their main caregivers are and show clear preferences for them. This is often when practitioners notice children reaching out to their key person for comfort or becoming upset when separated from a parent or other familiar adult.

These behaviours are a normal and important part of development. In the First Steps Room, they may present as:

• Crying or becoming unsettled during drop-off times
• Wanting to be held by or close to a familiar adult
• Feeling unsure or anxious around unfamiliar people
• Seeking reassurance when tired, overwhelmed, or in a new situation

Rather than seeing this as a difficulty, it ought to be understood as a positive sign that a child is forming secure attachments. When a child feels safe, they are more likely to begin exploring their environment, even if it is only for short periods at first.

The role of a key person in a First Steps Room is especially important during this stage. By providing consistent care, responding sensitively, and building trusting relationships, practitioners help children feel secure in their new environment. Simple actions such as comforting a child when they are upset, maintaining familiar routines, and using a calm, reassuring voice can make a significant difference.

Over time, as children’s confidence grows, they begin to use their key person as a secure base. This means they feel safe enough to move away, explore toys and activities, and then return for reassurance when needed. This balance between independence and security is a key part of early development.

Understanding the attachment stage enables practitioners in the First Steps Room to effectively balance each child’s emotional needs. By working closely with parents and providing a nurturing environment, nurseries help children take those early steps, not just physically but emotionally, building the foundations for future learning and relationships.

Social and Emotional Development

During a typical day in our First Steps Room, social and emotional development remains a key focus as children grow in confidence and begin to explore the world around them more independently. Through a wide range of activities and meaningful interactions, we support children in building strong, positive relationships that help them feel safe, secure, and valued.

Children are encouraged to develop close bonds with their key person and other familiar practitioners, reinforcing a sense of trust and emotional security. Consistent routines and responsive care remain essential at this stage, helping children to feel confident in their environment while navigating new experiences.

Our practitioners support children in recognising and expressing their emotions by responding sensitively to their needs and cues. As children begin to develop their communication skills, we help them to express feelings through words, gestures, and supported interactions. Activities such as singing familiar songs, sharing stories, and engaging in calming sensory play continue to provide comfort and reassurance.

As children grow, they also begin to take part in more social experiences. Group activities encourage early skills such as turn-taking, sharing, and making connections with others. Children may play alongside their peers, observe each other, and gradually begin to interact, building the foundations of communication and cooperation.

The benefits of supporting social and emotional development at this stage are significant. Children begin to develop self-confidence and a positive sense of self, feeling secure enough to explore and try new things. With guidance, they start to understand their emotions and learn simple ways to manage them.

By nurturing these early relationships and social skills, we help children build resilience and form healthy connections with others. The First Steps Room provides a warm, supportive environment where children develop a strong sense of belonging, preparing them for the next stages of their early years journey.

Key Person

At Tommies Childcare, we understand just how crucial secure, trusting relationships are, especially for our youngest children. That’s why, in line with the Early Years Statutory Guidance, every child is assigned a Key Person from our dedicated team of nursery practitioners.

The Key Person builds a close bond with both you and your baby, providing consistent care and support. They also carry out ongoing assessments to monitor your child’s progress and are always on hand to answer any questions or concerns you may have. This approach helps nurture your child’s well-being and ensure they feel safe, confident, and ready to explore their early years setting with joy.

Parent Partnerships

At Tommies Childcare, we know that parents are your child’s first and most important educators. That’s why we’re committed to working closely with you throughout your child’s nursery journey. To support this partnership, we ask parents to complete an ‘All About Me’ form before their little one starts, so we can understand their unique needs and preferences from the very first settling-in session.

Each day, you’ll receive updates through our Famly App, keeping you informed about meal and feeding times, nappy changes, sleep routines, and the exciting activities your child has enjoyed. We also love welcoming parents into our nurturing nursery environment during special events throughout the year. We hold two parent information evenings annually, where you can connect with your child’s key person to discuss their development and progress in detail.

Supporting Your Child’s Early Years Journey at Tommies Childcare

Choosing the right nursery for your child is one of the most important decisions you’ll make as a parent. At Tommies Childcare, we are dedicated to providing a nurturing, safe, and stimulating environment where your little one can thrive from their very first days. Our First Steps Rooms are thoughtfully designed to support early development through loving care, consistent routines, and engaging play-based learning aligned with the Early Years Foundation Stage.

We understand how precious these early years are and are committed to partnering with you to give your child the best possible start. To find your nearest Tommies Childcare nursery and arrange a visit to meet our friendly team, learn more about our approach, and register your child, please get in touch with us today.

We look forward to welcoming you and your little one to the Tommies family.

Choosing a Nursery: What to Expect When Visiting a Nursery

When the time comes to choose a nursery for your child, you will probably want to shortlist a number of day nurseries to visit. Most parents consider the following when deciding which nurseries to visit:

• Reputation through friends, family, and within the local community
• Ofsted rating and report
• Review sites such as Google Reviews or daynurseries.co.uk
• Whether older siblings have attended the nursery before
• Proximity to home or along a commuting route

Once you have shortlisted your preferred local nurseries, you will want to reach out to arrange a nursery visit.

Making Initial Contact with the Nursery

There are several ways to contact nurseries, including via their website, phone, email, or through an online booking system. At this stage, a responsive nursery is crucial, and your experience of this may confirm or exclude some nurseries from your shortlist.

You may wish to have a conversation with each nursery on your shortlist ahead of visiting to ask about:

• Availability, especially for younger children and baby rooms
• Opening hours and session times
• Pricing and fees

Availability for under 2s is often the biggest challenge for parents, with baby room places sometimes booked up to 18 months in advance. Smaller baby rooms tend to fill quickest, so early nursery visits and bookings are essential.

Visiting the Nursery: What to Expect

On the day of your nursery visit, you may feel excited or apprehensive about exploring settings that could become familiar to both you and your child. It is normal to experience a range of emotions, such as:

• Realising maternity leave may be ending, coupled with anxiety about leaving your child in a new environment with unfamiliar people
• Concerns about whether the nursery can provide the same level of care, love, and routine that your child receives at home
• Worries about managing nursery drop-offs and collections alongside your work schedule
• Apprehension about how your child will settle during their first day and beyond
• Navigating funding arrangements, which can initially feel overwhelming

These feelings are common and understandable during this big decision-making process.

Arriving at the Nursery and What to Look For

When you arrive at the nursery, you might feel nervous, but you should expect:

• A warm welcome from the nursery manager or designated person showing you around
• A feeling that the nursery was expecting your arrival
• Staff greet you and your child as you enter rooms
• A full tour of all rooms and outdoor spaces, including outdoor play areas
• Discussions about the daily routine, including mealtimes, nap times, and early years education curriculum
• Information on fees, funding, and payment arrangements
• Details on registration, key policies such as special dietary requirements, staff qualifications, including paediatric first aid training, safeguarding, and security measures

It is important to note that unless you visit outside of nursery opening hours, your visit will take place during a typical day. Nurseries try to schedule visits outside busy times, such as mealtimes and sleep times, but this is not always possible. Nurseries are busy places, and while this can feel overwhelming to new parents, it is completely normal.

Even during busy times, you should expect to see:

• Staff interacting warmly with children and comforting those who may be upset
• No concerns regarding children’s safety within the setting
• Kind, welcoming, and compassionate staff attending to the children’s needs
• Children appear happy and engaged in their environment
• A well-maintained building free from disrepair

Choosing the right nursery is ultimately about the feeling you get when visiting the setting. The people and team you meet on the day should heavily influence your decision.

Questions to Ask During Your Nursery Visit

It’s a good idea to prepare questions in advance to ensure you cover everything important to you. Writing them down can help you avoid forgetting anything during the visit.

To know what questions to ask, you might find our post below helpful:

The Best Questions to Ask When Visiting a Nursery

Follow-Up After Your Nursery Visit

After your visit, you may receive additional information about the nursery, such as a prospectus or brochure. You should expect the nursery to contact you via phone or email to follow up within 24 hours. While some parents may not be ready to make an immediate decision, it’s important to note that nursery places are usually not confirmed until you have completed the registration process.

Early registration is especially important due to waiting lists and limited availability in popular nurseries.

By following these tips and knowing what to expect when visiting a nursery, you can make an informed choice that best supports your family’s needs, your child’s learning, development, and well-being in their new environment.

Understanding Early Years Nursery Assessments

How Are Early Years Nurseries Assessing Children?

Assessing young children, especially those under 5, may seem unusual at first. However, in nurseries and other early years settings, early years assessments are conducted informally through ongoing observation rather than formal testing.

These assessments are a vital part of the learning and development process, enabling early years practitioners to gain a clear understanding of each child’s individual progress and needs. This ongoing assessment helps shape teaching and learning experiences tailored to support your child’s future learning and development effectively.

Parents are encouraged to engage with these assessments to recognise their child’s progress in line with the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) framework, which outlines seven key areas of learning and development. This partnership between early years providers and families ensures a successful transition for children as they reach important developmental milestones.

Seven Areas of Learning (Early Years Foundation Stage)

The Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) framework guides us in supporting your little one’s journey through seven key areas of learning and development:

3 Prime Areas

• Personal, Social and Emotional Development
• Physical Development
• Communication and Language

4 Specific Areas

• Literacy
• Mathematics
• Understanding the World
• Expressive Arts and Design

Assessments at our nurseries are continuous, with practitioners regularly observing children. The strong relationships practitioners build with each child enable them to understand the child’s interests and adapt their teaching to support children’s learning effectively.

Expectations of Early Years Assessments

Baseline Assessments

Within 6-8 weeks of your child starting nursery, your child’s Key Worker will carry out a Baseline Assessment. This statutory assessment provides an initial snapshot of your child’s level of development in line with the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) framework.

The areas assessed depend on your child’s age. Children under 2 years old are assessed only on the Prime Areas of the EYFS, as these form the foundation for learning and development in the Specific Areas. Children over 2 years old will be assessed across both the Prime and Specific Areas. Following this, your child will receive a grading which reflects their progress against expected developmental milestones.

Quarterly Assessments

After the Baseline Assessment, ongoing formative assessments take place every three months to monitor your child’s progress. These summative assessments provide a clear picture of your child’s development over time. You will receive written updates, including at least one detailed assessment annually.

Each assessment highlights areas where your child may need additional support. Practitioners set targets accordingly and work closely with parents to provide guidance on supporting your child’s learning and development at home.

2-Year Progress Check

Between the ages of 2 and 3, a statutory progress check is completed in line with the Early Years Statutory Framework requirements. This check includes a short written summary focusing on your child’s progress in the Prime Areas. At Tommies Childcare, we go further by assessing both Prime and Specific Areas to give a more complete picture of your child’s development.

Read more information on the 2-Year Development Check here.

Understanding the Assessment Gradings and Your Child’s Development

When you receive your child’s assessment through our online platform Famly, each area will be graded as follows:

• Progressing Well (Your child is demonstrating expected levels of development for their age)
• Give More Support (Your child is making some progress but may benefit from targeted support to meet expected developmental milestones)
• Needs Special Support (Your child requires additional support, possibly involving external health professionals or interventions, to help them progress)

It’s important to remember that some children may be demonstrating skills at home that we have not yet observed at nursery. To support accurate assessment and ongoing communication, please share home moments via the Famly app. This helps practitioners gain a fuller understanding of your child’s learning and development.

Raising Concerns Following an Assessment

If there are any concerns about your child’s development identified during assessments, these will be discussed with you beforehand. Should you feel an assessment does not accurately reflect your child’s progress, please speak to your child’s Key Worker or Nursery Manager.

We believe that assessing your child’s learning is a true partnership between our team and you. We want you to feel completely comfortable reaching out and having open conversations with us, so that together we can support your child’s development in the best possible way.

Communication with Parents

All assessments and observations are recorded and shared through our online learning journey software, Famly. Parents receive access to Famly upon registration at our nurseries. If you do not have access to your Famly account, please contact your Nursery Manager for assistance.

What Do Children Do at Nursery? Baby Room (0-1 Year)

What Do Babies Actually Do at Nursery All Day?

If you’re a parent of a baby under 12 months old, you might have wondered exactly what your little one will get up to during their time at nursery. It’s a question we hear often at Tommies Childcare, and the answer might surprise you.

The Baby Room at a Tommies Childcare nursery is where the magic of early childhood education begins. Our Baby Rooms are the calmest and cosiest spaces in all of our nurseries – specially designed to meet the unique needs of babies from 6 weeks to around 12 months old. It’s a place where care, routines, and early learning experiences all come together to offer the youngest in our care the very best start in their early years.

The Baby Room Environment

Each of our Baby Rooms has been carefully designed to feel warm, secure, and inviting. We have specifically chosen a muted colour palette to create a nurturing environment that feels safe and secure.

Furniture has been specifically chosen to help children develop and reach early milestones, including crawling, pulling to stand, and taking their first steps. Rest assured, all resources in our Baby Rooms are age-appropriate and free of any choking risk.

In some of our newer and larger nurseries, you may also find dedicated sleep rooms, allowing the babies a space to sleep away from the main room. Alongside sleep rooms, self-contained milk kitchens provide our practitioners a space to prepare and serve bottles and food. That way, our Baby Rooms become self-sufficient units in our nurseries.

Routines

We understand that for our youngest children, daily routines vary depending on their age and the routines already established at home. Our goal is to support both you and your child to make the transition from home to our nursery setting as smooth and nurturing as possible.

We also recognise that children move from receiving one-to-one care at home to a nursery environment where one early years practitioner cares for every three babies. To support this transition, we implement several thoughtful approaches:

• An extended settling-in process designed to help children build positive relationships and feel secure enough to separate from their parents or carers when their nursery journey begins.
• For babies who are exclusively breastfed but require a bottle at nursery, we kindly ask parents to prepare their child to accept a bottle before starting. This helps our nursery team effectively meet your child’s feeding needs.
• Lastly, we request parental support in managing sleep associations that cannot be replicated in the nursery environment, such as breastfeeding to sleep, rocking, or pushchair sleep routines. While we provide reassurance and comfort during nap times, supporting these transitions at home before nursery greatly benefits your child’s ability to settle confidently in our care.

Early Learning in the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS)

As our babies are the youngest members of the Tommies family, we place great emphasis on nurturing secure attachments that form the foundation of their emotional development. We ensure consistency within our teams because we understand how vital stable relationships are for your child’s well-being and confidence.

Alongside building these positive relationships and supporting individual care routines, our Babies enjoy engaging in a wide variety of play-based activities designed to help them explore and develop essential skills, including:

• Tummy time to strengthen muscles and encourage early physical development.
• Sensory baskets filled with a variety of textures, sounds, and shapes to stimulate their natural curiosity.
• Mirrors to foster self-awareness and early communication skills.
• Singing songs, rhymes, and gentle stories to support early language and listening skills.
• Daily outdoor activities, whatever the weather, to promote physical development and well-being in our nurturing nursery environments.
• Messy play with different textures, including activities such as finger painting, playing with playdough, sand and water exploration, and using textured materials like rice, pasta, or fabric scraps. These hands-on experiences encourage sensory development, fine motor skills, creativity, and problem-solving. Messy play also supports children’s natural curiosity and helps them build confidence as they explore new sensations and express themselves freely in a safe and nurturing environment.

At such a young age, babies may be meeting other babies and children for the very first time, which is a crucial step in their social development. These early interactions help them begin to understand social cues, develop empathy, and learn the basics of communication and cooperation. Being in a nursery environment allows babies to experience sharing space and attention, which lays the foundation for positive relationships and social skills that will support their emotional growth and confidence as they continue to develop.

Social and Emotional Development

In our Baby Rooms, social and emotional development is a key focus, nurtured through a range of carefully planned activities and interactions. Babies are encouraged to build positive relationships with their key person and other nursery practitioners, fostering a sense of security and trust. Through gentle, responsive care and consistent routines, babies begin to develop attachments that are vital for their emotional well-being.

Our practitioners support babies in recognising and expressing their feelings by responding sensitively to their cues and emotions. Activities such as singing familiar songs, sharing stories, and engaging in calming sensory play help babies feel safe and valued. Group interactions, even at this early stage, introduce babies to the beginnings of social skills like turn-taking, eye contact, and early communication.

The benefits of these social and emotional development activities are profound. They lay the foundation for self-confidence and positive self-image, helping babies to feel secure in their environment and comfortable exploring new experiences. By supporting emotional regulation and early social interactions, we help babies develop resilience and the ability to form healthy relationships as they grow. This early nurturing environment also promotes a strong sense of belonging and prepares them for the transitions ahead in their early years journey.

Key Person

At Tommies Childcare, we understand just how crucial secure, trusting relationships are, especially for our youngest children. That’s why, in line with the Early Years Statutory Guidance, every child is assigned a Key Person from our dedicated team of nursery practitioners.

The Key Person builds a close bond with both you and your baby, providing consistent care and support. They also carry out ongoing assessments to monitor your child’s progress and are always on hand to answer any questions or concerns you may have. This approach helps nurture your child’s well-being and ensures they feel safe, confident, and ready to explore their early years setting with joy.

Parent Partnerships

At Tommies Childcare, we know that parents are your child’s first and most important educators. That’s why we’re committed to working closely with you throughout your child’s nursery journey. To support this partnership, we ask parents to complete an ‘All About Me’ form before their little one starts, helping us understand their unique needs and preferences right from the very first settling-in session.

Each day, you’ll receive updates through our Famly App, keeping you informed about meal and feeding times, nappy changes, sleep routines, and the exciting activities your child has enjoyed. We also love welcoming parents into our nurturing nursery environment during special events throughout the year. We hold two parent information evenings annually, where you can connect with your child’s key person to discuss their development and progress in detail.

Supporting Your Baby’s Early Years Journey at Tommies Childcare

Choosing the right nursery for your baby is one of the most important decisions you’ll make as a parent. At Tommies Childcare, we are dedicated to providing a nurturing, safe, and stimulating environment where your little one can thrive from their very first days. Our Baby Rooms are thoughtfully designed to support early development through loving care, consistent routines, and engaging play-based learning aligned with the Early Years Foundation Stage.

We understand how precious these early years are and are committed to partnering with you to give your child the best possible start. To find your nearest Tommies Childcare nursery and arrange a visit to meet our friendly team, learn more about our approach, and register your child, please get in touch with us today.

We look forward to welcoming you and your little one to the Tommies family.

When to Apply for a Primary School Place

For many parents, the idea of applying for a primary or junior school place once seemed far off. Perhaps it still feels like yesterday you were welcoming a new addition to your family. But now, the time has come to think about applying for primary school and plan for your child’s exciting next step in education.

Whether your child is starting primary or infant school in September 2026 or a later school year, understanding the school admissions process is essential. This guide will help you navigate key dates like the closing date for applications, explain how to choose preferred schools, and clarify what happens once the school allocates your child’s place.

From submitting your application form online to knowing what to do if you aren’t happy with the school place offered, we cover everything parents need to feel confident in securing a place at the right local school for their child. Read on for detailed information and our expert tips on ensuring your child’s step into school life goes smoothly.

When can my child start primary or junior school?

In England and Wales, children typically begin their reception year full-time in September following their fourth birthday. For instance, if your little one turns 4 in June, they would usually start school that September.

If you feel your child isn’t quite ready to start school in September, there’s flexibility. For example, if their birthday falls in August, you might choose to delay their start. However, it’s important to remember that your child must be in full-time education by the time they reach compulsory school age.

There are options to start school part-time, join partway through the year, or begin in the following academic year in September after they turn 5.

Please note: You’ll still need to apply for a primary school place at the same time as everyone else, but you can ask for a later start date when you apply.

Should your child start school after their fifth birthday, they will enter Year 1. If you’d prefer they start reception instead, it’s worth discussing this with your local council or school, but please be advised that they do not have to agree.

Compulsory school age is reached on the first of these dates after your child’s fifth birthday: 31st December, 31st March, or 31st August. If your child’s fifth birthday falls on one of these dates, that’s when compulsory education begins.

For example, if your child turns five on 31st March, they’ll need to start full-time education at the beginning of the next term, which is the summer term of that year.

Key dates and when to apply for primary school places

Parents of children whose fourth birthday is between 1st September 2025 and 31st August 2026 have until the closing date of 15th January 2026 to apply for a primary or junior school place for the academic year starting in September 2026.

How to apply for a primary school place in your local authority

You can start the application process for your nearest schools by entering your postcode on the UK Government’s website, where you’ll be redirected to your local authority’s primary school application process. Be sure to do this well in advance of the closing date.

Apply for a Primary School Place

Please note that most schools allow you to apply online, while others may require written application forms.

What are the primary school entry criteria?

You will have likely heard many parents discuss the lengths they have gone to get their child into their preferred primary and junior schools.

We all know that ‘Good’ school places are in high demand, and with fewer places available than children who need them, it can feel competitive and stressful.

Some typical school admission criteria that schools may use include:

• children who live close to the school
• children who have a brother or sister at the school already
• children from a particular religion (for faith schools)
• children who are ‘looked after’ by the local authority or have previously been ‘looked after’ and are now adopted or have special guardianship; or
• children whose parents have worked at the school for 2+ years.

When researching your preferred schools, be sure to check their websites or social media pages, as they often post information about their specific entry criteria, which can help you assess the likelihood of your child being offered a place.

How do I choose the right primary school for my child?

What makes a great primary/junior school will depend on whether it feels like the right environment for your child.

Many parents feel pressured to choose a primary school based on academic performance, as we are regularly told that exam results are a ‘key indicator’ of a school’s success.

While academic performance, of course, holds some weight, other considerations should come into your decision-making.

Think about what you feel will best suit your child’s personality and learning style. Reflect on your interactions with the school staff and take your gut instincts into account. How did you feel when you visited a particular school?

A ‘Good’ primary school is far more about its ability to deliver a broad and balanced learning curriculum. It is more about whether you trust the staff and teachers to bring out the very best of your child.

Ultimately, you know your child better than anyone else. You know what environment they need to support their social and emotional development. Think about the things your child enjoys, whether that be sports, music, drama, or reading. That way, you can use their interests to learn more about a school’s facilities and the extra-curricular activities it offers.

Should I visit more than one school?

Yes. Definitely!

You might have one particular primary or junior school in mind as your first choice. Be prepared for it not to meet your expectations. Every school has a different ‘feel’, and you should use this to inform your decision.

Some schools might lack a certain spark or flair, while others focus entirely on academic performance. Academic performance and exam results might be your priority, which is perfectly reasonable. Still, we gently advise you to base your decision on what you believe your child will benefit from most.

During the application stage, you will be asked to list up to three or four schools in order of preference. Otherwise, you risk being offered a school at random, which could be the wrong environment for your child or be in an inconvenient location.

When will I find out which school my child has been offered?

All children’s primary school places will be confirmed by school admissions teams on or around the 16th April 2026. You’re likely to receive a confirmation email if you applied online or by post for paper applications.

You will then need to accept the offer by the deadline stated; otherwise, you risk losing your place.

What to do if you are not offered a place at your preferred school or if you are not happy

If you are not happy with the school choice offered, you have the right to appeal the decision. You can learn all about the appeal process here:

Appealing a School’s Decision

A final thought

As you prepare for your child’s exciting next step into primary school, remember you’re not alone. Many parents are navigating this transition alongside you. It’s natural to reflect on the wonderful memories and milestones reached so far. Rest assured, with your love and encouragement, your child is ready to confidently embrace the adventure of starting primary school.

 

Parent Wellbeing: Simple Ways to Care for Yourself

The transition from life without children to life with children is arguably one of the greatest you’ll make in adult life. So many parents can vouch for this. But one thing we sometimes don’t pay enough attention to is parent wellbeing.

Whilst you have heard stories about having children and the joy they bring to your life, many parents don’t talk about the challenges we face both in becoming parents and in being parents.

As parents, the days can be long, and the responsibilities you carry can, at times, be overwhelming. You might find yourself constantly tuning in to how your children are feeling, managing their needs, and ensuring that they are happy, which, of course, is what we should do as parents. But while you’re busy nurturing them, it’s easy to forget that you need nurturing, too.

Parenting doesn’t come with scheduled rest or emotional breaks. It relies on your energy, your patience, and your ability to keep going, even when you feel there is nothing left in the tank.

That’s even more reason that looking after your own wellbeing is so important. It provides the foundation for everything else that happens around you. If you feel supported, well in yourself, and have a positive outlook on your life, your children will also benefit.

Why Does Parent Wellbeing Matter?

Children learn more from what we do than what we say. When they see you taking time to pause, asking for help, or setting healthy boundaries, they learn to do the same. Your wellbeing helps shape how they learn to manage stress, emotions, and self-care as they grow up.

This isn’t about aiming for perfection. It’s simply about acknowledging that being human is part of parenting. You have a child to look after, but you also have your own mental health to look after.

The NSPCC (2025) acknowledge that parents who are struggling with their mental health, without the proper support, may struggle with aspects of parenting and the challenges that naturally arise.

Feeling comfortable enough to reach out to those around you is essential when you’re struggling. This may be due to family and friends who can provide some support during difficult times. However, if you feel that further help is needed, there is a network of professionals who can help support parents, including your GP and Health Visitor.

Signs of Parental Burnout and When to Ask for Help

It’s normal to have hard days, but if you notice:

• You feel constantly overwhelmed or exhausted
• You have anxious feelings
• You’re quick to snap or feel tearful
• You can’t remember the last time you did something just for yourself or your own wellbeing
• You’re finding it difficult to enjoy things you used to

These are signs of parent burnout, and it is time to care for your own mental health.

You aren’t failing; your needs aren’t being met. Emotional exhaustion can be tough, but recognising it is the first step towards having a conversation with someone about how you are feeling. Depending on how intense your feelings are, this could be a conversation you have with your partner, a family member or a friend.

Simple Resets for Overwhelmed Parents and Tough Times

Caring for yourself doesn’t have to be a challenge. It’s often small things that add up to a big difference.

Here are 5 simple resets to help cope with parent overwhelm or avoid parental burnout:

1. Take A Moment: Step away from the situation that may be causing your stress levels to rise and practice slow breathing for 30 seconds. Allow yourself the opportunity to ground yourself and become present.
2. Connection: Text or call someone who cares for you. Tell them how you are feeling. Talking out loud about your feelings can take away their power.
3. Exercise: Go for a walk or do an activity that supports your physical health. Self-care is vital, so take some time away from your role as a parent, if you can. You’d be amazed at the difference even gentle exercise can make to your mood.
4. Ask for Help: While this might seem like one of the hardest steps, please remember that asking for support is not a weakness. If anything, it shows strength.
5. Do Something for You: Listen to your favourite music, read a book when the children have gone to bed, take up a hobby you may have once given up or always wanted to do, meet a friend for a coffee, or take yourself for lunch/dinner. Whatever it might be, do one thing that’s yours.

You’re Not Alone

Every parent has felt overwhelmed, unsure, or stretched too thin at some point. It doesn’t mean you’re doing anything wrong. It means you’re human and you care deeply.

If you’re facing mental health challenges, remember that support is available, and reaching out to a friend, a support group, or a professional from a mental health service can make all the difference.

You deserve wellbeing support just as much as your children do, and taking that step to ask for help is a sign of strength, not weakness.

Next Steps for Your Mental Health & Parent Wellbeing

Remember: You are doing something extraordinary, even on the days when it doesn’t feel like it.

Your own wellbeing matters. Your feelings matter. You matter.

Taking care of your own physical and mental health is essential – not just for you, but for your family too. If you ever feel overwhelmed, anxious, or struggling with your emotional wellbeing, remember that support is available.

Consider reaching out to local parents or carers groups to share experiences and find emotional support from others who understand your journey. You can also speak to your GP, health visitor, or mental health services for professional advice tailored to your needs.

For immediate help or guidance, organisations such as the NSPCC, Family Lives, or mental health charities offer resources and helplines to support parents and carers through challenging times.

Remember, asking for help is a sign of strength, not weakness. Taking time for yourself and seeking support can have a positive impact on your parenting role and day-to-day life.

You are doing better than you think, and remember that you don’t have to do it alone.

—

Discover More Parenting Advice

We have a whole host of other articles to support you in your parenting journey. Take a look here.

Early Years Funding Made Easy with ‘Funding Loop’

If you’ve previously had a child at a Tommies nursery, you may already be familiar with ‘Funding Loop’. If not, this guide explains what Funding Loop is and the process you’ll need to follow so we can claim your funded hours.

In order for any nursery to claim funding on a parent’s behalf, parents must complete a Parent Declaration form with the information required by the Local Authority. Funding Loop is a digital platform that helps you to do this quickly and securely each term.

“So, what is Funding Loop?”

Funding Loop is a digital system that helps parents and nurseries apply for government funding with ease. As part of the funding requirements, you’ll need to reconfirm your information each term. Using your Funding Loop account, you can do this online instead of completing paper forms every term.

“How do I access my Funding Loop account?”

Once your funding code has been provided and verified by your nursery, we’ll upload your details to our Funding Loop. This triggers an email inviting you to sign up and register. You must complete this registration to give us permission to claim your funding. If you don’t, we won’t be able to claim the funding, and it won’t be applied to your childcare bills.

“What information will I need to confirm?”

When you log in, you’ll be asked to confirm details taken from our nursery management system, including:

• Your personal details
• Your child’s personal details, including date of birth
• Proof of identity (for first claims only): upload your child’s birth certificate or passport – you won’t be able to complete the form without this
• Your child’s attendance pattern (the hours they’ll attend)
• The number of funded hours we’re claiming on your behalf
• Any split funding (if you’re using another provider or childminder for eligible hours)

Please note: While you may be eligible for 30 hours, we offer this over a minimum of three full days. If your child attends fewer than three full days, your claim may show fewer than 30 hours.

“What are the benefits of using Funding Loop?”

A digital platform means you can review information, see automatic calculations, and submit your form to us in a few clicks. Your completed forms and any uploaded documents are saved online for future reference and can be downloaded or printed at any time. When you complete a form for a future term, Funding Loop remembers your previous information to make the process even quicker.

“What happens after I complete the Parent Declaration?”

Once you’ve submitted the Parent Declaration, your chosen nursery is notified. We then have everything we need to add your claim to the Local Authority portal and receive payment for the funded hours you’ve authorised us to claim.

“What if I don’t complete the Parent Declaration form?”

When you register for a place at a Tommies nursery, you’re asked to read and sign our terms and conditions. All places are offered without funding because we need proof of eligibility before we can claim hours. It’s the parents’ responsibility to provide the funding code and National Insurance number as early as possible to avoid delays or invoicing errors. Once checked, your Nursery Manager will get in touch if there are any issues with the code or the information provided.

“Do I need to do anything else after completing the Parent Declaration?”

If you’re claiming Working Family Funding (30 hours), you must reconfirm your details every three months. You’ll receive an email reminder from GOV.UK before the deadline. Reconfirmation is the parents’ responsibility; failing to do so may affect your eligibility for funding.

—

To learn more about the types of funding available and the eligibility requirements, please click here.