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Attendance at nursery school

Nursery schools and preparing your child for school life.

Nursery school attendance

Attending nursery school gives your child the opportunity to play and learn with other children their age in a safe and friendly environment.

The play-based curriculum allows them to develop communication, social and emotional skills, as well as learn how to get along with other children, be part of a group, share, contribute and follow instructions.  

These skills, in turn, will better equip them to move on to the next stage of their education. 

The Early years foundation stage provides key information about learning, development and childcare for children under 5. 

Getting ready for school

Nurseries also play an important role in preparing children for the routines and requirements of their future education. 

Once a child reaches the age of 5, regular attendance and punctuality at school become a legal requirement, enforceable by the local authority. Attending nursery helps children establish routines of going to school regularly and being on time, which can help them make a smooth and positive transition to reception. 

Evidence has shown that children who have a smooth and positive start at school remain high achievers throughout their primary education and beyond.  

You can help your children to have a positive time at school by making sure they attend their nursery provision regularly and on time.  

Please note, if your children do not attend their nursery class or school regularly, they may lose their places. If they cannot attend for any reason, it is important to always let staff know.

Published: 3 December 2020

Last updated: 13 January 2021