Frequently Asked Questions

Get answers to the most common questions about our nursery matching service

Our Service

What exactly does Nursery Spaces do?

We connect families with suitable childcare providers across the UK. When you submit your requirements, we identify nurseries in our database that match your needs and contact them with your details. Interested nurseries then reach out to you directly.

Think of us as your personal childcare search assistant - we save you time contacting multiple nurseries and help you discover quality options in your area.

Is your service really completely free?

Yes, absolutely! There are no hidden fees, no charges at any stage, and no obligations. Our service is completely free for families because we believe finding good childcare shouldn't cost extra money.

You only pay the nursery directly for their childcare services - exactly the same as if you'd found them yourself. We never add any fees or commissions to your nursery costs.

How do you make money if the service is free?

We work with nurseries on a referral basis. When a family enrolls at a nursery through our service, the nursery pays us a finder's fee - similar to how estate agents work. This never affects your nursery fees and means we can offer our service completely free to families.

Cost & Pricing

Do nurseries charge more if I come through you?

No, absolutely not. The nursery fees you pay are exactly the same whether you found the nursery through us or directly. We have agreements with our partner nurseries that they cannot charge families differently based on how they discovered the nursery.

What about government funding - can I still use that?

Yes! All government childcare funding (15 hours free for 3-4 year olds, 30 hours for working parents, etc.) works exactly the same. The nurseries we work with all accept government funding where they normally would. Our service doesn't affect your eligibility or how you claim funding.

Are there any costs I should be aware of?

The only costs you'll have are the normal nursery fees and any deposits or registration fees that individual nurseries require. These vary by nursery but are standard across the industry. We'll always make sure you understand all costs before you commit to anything.

Process & Timing

How quickly will I hear from nurseries after submitting my enquiry?

We contact suitable nurseries within 24-48 hours of receiving your enquiry. Interested nurseries then contact you directly, usually within 2-5 days. During busy periods (like before September intake), responses may take slightly longer.

What happens after nurseries contact me?

Once nurseries reach out to you, you work directly with them to:

  • Arrange visits and ask questions
  • Discuss availability and start dates
  • Understand their fees and policies
  • Make your final decision

We're available if you need support or have questions throughout the process.

What if none of your suggestions are suitable?

That's absolutely fine and more common than you might think! We can refine your search criteria and look for different options. Sometimes it takes a couple of rounds to find the perfect match. There's never any pressure to choose a nursery just because we suggested it.

How far ahead should I start looking for nursery places?

The earlier the better! For September starts, many parents begin looking in January-March. For other times of year, 3-6 months ahead is ideal. However, we regularly help families who need places more urgently - spaces do become available throughout the year.

About Our Nurseries

How do you choose which nurseries to work with?

We only work with registered nurseries that meet regulatory standards. We look for:

  • Current Ofsted registration and good inspection ratings
  • Qualified, experienced staff
  • Good reputation in the local community
  • Appropriate facilities and safety measures
  • Commitment to quality early years education

Do you work with all types of nurseries?

Yes! We work with private day nurseries, nursery schools, preschools, and settings that accept government funding. We include nurseries with different educational approaches (Montessori, Forest School, traditional play-based) and those that can support children with additional needs.

Can you help with specialist requirements?

Absolutely! We regularly help families find nurseries that can support:

  • Children with SEND (Special Educational Needs and Disabilities)
  • Specific dietary requirements and allergies
  • Cultural or religious preferences
  • Bilingual or language-specific needs
  • Unusual working hours or shift patterns

What if I'm not happy with a nursery after I've started?

While we carefully match families with suitable nurseries, sometimes things don't work out as expected. If you're not happy after starting, please get in touch - we can help you find alternative options. Most nurseries have notice periods, so we can work on finding a new placement while you serve your notice.

Still have questions?

We're here to help! Get in touch and we'll answer any questions about our service.

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