Parents often ask whether a nursery and a pre-school are different. In practice, the name alone does not tell you everything. Both can provide early education and childcare, and both can be part of the EYFS in England.
What is a nursery?
Nurseries commonly provide childcare for babies, toddlers and pre-school children. Many offer longer days and more flexible sessions for working families, although arrangements vary widely.
What is a pre-school?
Pre-schools commonly focus on children in the years before school and may operate around shorter sessions. Some are attached to schools, community organisations or other providers. Again, the exact offer varies.
Which one should I choose?
Compare the actual setting rather than the label. Look at opening hours, age range, availability, staff, outdoor space, funding, meals, additional charges and how children are supported.
Do both follow EYFS?
Registered early years providers in England must follow the relevant EYFS requirements. This means parents can use the same broad development framework when comparing different types of setting.