Pre-schools, also known as playgroups or playschools, give young children the opportunity to learn and play in small groups. Most are open during term times for sessions of around two to three hours, although some are open longer. Parents often help out the staff with the activities.

Do pre-schools need to be registered?

All childcare providers caring for children under the age of 8 years for more than two hours a day, for more than 14 days a year, must be registered on either the Early Years Register or the compulsory part of the Childcare Register.

Requirements for pre-schools

All pre-schools must ensure that:

• all staff submit to a CRB (Criminal Records Bureau) check
• a first aid-qualified member of staff is present at all times
• at least 50% of staff have the relevant qualifications
• the premises have passed necessary inspection.

Early years free entitlement

Most pre-schools in Croydon have signed up to deliver the early years free entitlement funding for eligible children.

How to find a pre-school?

The Family Space web site can provide you with details of pre-schools in your area or near your place of work.