FAQs

What age group do you cater for?

We welcome children from 2 and a 1/4 years old up until they leave for school, or until the end of the term in which their 5th birthday falls, meaning summer born children (1 April - 31 August) can complete their reception year at nursery if you choose to do so.

Do you follow term times?

Yes, we typically follow West Berkshire term dates. Please see our Term & Event Dates page for details.

Do you accept government funding?

Yes, we offer funded places for 3 and 4 year olds (15 and 30-hour funding available). See our Fees & Funding section for details.

Does my child need to be potty trained?

No, we support children at all stages of toilet training. If your child is in nappies, please provide a named bag with spare nappies, wipes, and a change of clothes. And we are able to support your child when they are developmentally ready. 

What should my child wear?

Children should wear comfortable clothing which they manage themselves. Please provide a pair of soft indoor shoes (slippers or plimsolls) and a pair of wellington boots. Items of clothing embroidered with the nursery logo can be purchased from our online Shop and collected at nursery, although not compulsory. Please make sure all items are clearly named.

My child has never been to nursery before, how will you help them settle?

We have a gentle, child-led approach to settling in. You are welcome to stay for an hour at your first session, and we will assess and work closely with you to ensure a smooth transition.

Magical Montessori classes are beneficial to attend before starting preschool, so that your child can get used to the hall, materials and Miss Jane. 

How will I know how my child is doing?

We share generic updates on activities, childcare, and parenting news through email and social media. Once enrolled, each child is matched with a ‘key teacher’ and regular updates will be provided via verbal feedback and the My Montessori Child online portal.

All teachers use ‘My Montessori Child’ to enable us deliver the best possible educational experience for your children. We use the system to record activities your child engages in and parents have password-protected access to view shared information and photographs. The key teacher will review the collective observations and use them to plan future activities for your child. If your child is under 36 months, the key teacher will also include a ‘2-year check’.

We are always more than happy to discuss your child’s progress. If there is anything you wish to discuss with your child’s key person, or Jane, please let us know and we can arrange a meeting.  

Can I change my child’s sessions after enrolment?

Yes, we try to accommodate changes where possible, but this depends on availability. We kindly ask for a half term’s notice in writing when a child is to reduce their weekly sessions. Please speak to Jane or a member of staff in advance.

How do I register my child?

Visit our Enrolment page to submit an application or arrange a visit.