Choosing a school / setting

Choosing a setting

The services and support offered by early years providers will vary between settings.

You should contact the settings that you are considering, to discuss what support they are able to provide your child.

There is a wide range of options for childcare and daycare including:

• Childminders
  Childminders are self-employed and work in their own home, caring for children from the age of birth upwards for part or all of the day.
• Family Hubs
  Family Hubs, previously known as children's centres, welcome children from all backgrounds, as well as offering social and practical events and options for families.
• Nursery schools
  The Council has a duty to guarantee early education places in South Tyneside. This includes nursery schools, nursery classes in primary schools, and private and voluntary providers.
• Daycare (STANLEY's)
  STANLEY's daycare is available at Family Hubs throughout South Tyneside. They are committed to providing high quality childcare for all children, that will improve outcomes for young children and their families and reduce inequalities.

Free childcare

Early years settings provide learning and social opportunities for children under school age.

All children aged 3 and 4 are entitled to 15 hours of free childcare a week.

For families with working parents, this is extended to 30 hours.

Some children aged 2 are eligible for free childcare as well.

More information

All providers of early years education must have arrangements in place for identifying SEN early, and for supporting children with SEN or disabilities.

Read more about what early years settings must do.