FEE
Fees at The Ark Children's Centre
We believe that choosing childcare should be straightforward, with clear information and no unexpected costs.
Our fees are designed to provide families with high-quality childcare, delivered by experienced and caring early years professionals in a safe, stimulating environment.
If you are unsure about any aspect of our fees or funding, our friendly team will be happy to explain your options and help you find the childcare arrangement that best suits your family.
Understanding Our Fees
We aim to keep our fee structure simple, transparent and easy to understand.
Fees are based on your child's attendance pattern and are payable monthly in advance.
Whether you require a full-time place, part-time sessions or funded childcare, we will discuss the options available and provide a clear breakdown of any charges before your child starts.
There are no hidden costs, and we are always happy to answer any questions you may have.
Nursery Sessions
We offer flexible childcare to support the needs of families throughout the year.
Sessions may include:
- Full-day care
- Morning sessions
- Afternoon sessions
- Full-week attendance
- Government-funded childcare sessions
- Additional childcare sessions, subject to availability
Our team will help you choose the most suitable attendance pattern based on your family's needs.
Registration
To secure your child's place, parents are asked to complete our registration process.
This includes:
- Completing the nursery registration forms
- Providing your child's details
- Sharing any medical or dietary information
- Agreeing to our nursery terms and conditions
Our team will explain the registration process and answer any questions before your child joins us.
Deposits
A refundable deposit may be required to secure non-funded nursery places.
Where applicable, the deposit will be explained before your child's place is confirmed.
Government-Funded Childcare
We are pleased to offer Government-funded childcare for eligible children.
Depending on your child's age and your family's circumstances, you may be entitled to:
- 15 hours funded childcare
- 30 hours funded childcare for eligible working families
Funding is available in line with current Government eligibility criteria.
For full details about eligibility, how funding works and how to apply, please visit our Funded Childcare page.
What Is Included in Our Fees?
Our childcare fees contribute towards providing your child with a safe, caring and stimulating learning environment.
Children benefit from:
- Qualified and experienced staff
- A welcoming and secure nursery environment
- A broad Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) curriculum
- Indoor and outdoor learning experiences
- Creative activities
- Physical play
- School readiness activities
- Daily observations and assessment of your child's learning and development
- Partnership with parents throughout your child's nursery journey
Additional Charges
Government-funded childcare covers your child's early education.
Additional charges may apply where appropriate for services outside the funded entitlement, including:
- Additional childcare hours
- Extra nursery sessions
- Meals and snacks (where applicable)
- Nappies and wipes
- Optional outings or special activities
Any optional charges will always be explained clearly before they are applied.
Payment Information
We aim to keep our fees clear and transparent, so you know exactly what to expect before your child starts with us.
Nursery fees are payable monthly in advance and should be paid by the agreed payment date to secure your child's place.
Where applicable, a non-refundable registration fee and a refundable deposit equivalent to two weeks' nursery fees may be required when accepting a nursery place. Full details will be explained during the registration process.
If you have any questions about our fees or payment arrangements, our team will be happy to help.
Fee Reviews
We regularly review our nursery fees to ensure we continue providing high-quality childcare while maintaining excellent standards of care and education.
Parents will always receive reasonable notice of any changes to our fee structure.
Help with Childcare Costs
We understand that childcare is a significant investment for many families. A range of Government support schemes may be available to help reduce the cost of childcare, depending on your individual circumstances.
You may be eligible for:
- Government-funded childcare
- Tax-Free Childcare
- Employer childcare voucher schemes (where available)
If you are unsure which scheme is right for you, our team will be happy to explain the options available and direct you to the appropriate Government guidance.
For the latest information about childcare funding and financial support, please visit the Government's Childcare Choices website:
- Childcare Choices – Information about Tax-Free Childcare, Government-funded childcare and other childcare support available to families.
- Free Childcare for Eligible 2-Year-Olds (Extra Support) – Find out whether your child qualifies for funded childcare and how to apply.
Need Advice About Childcare Costs?
We understand that every family's circumstances are different.
Whether you are looking for full-time childcare, part-time sessions or funded childcare, our experienced team will be happy to discuss the options available and help you choose the arrangement that best suits your family.
Please contact us if you would like further information or to arrange a visit to The Ark Children's Centre.
Childcare Fees
| 3 Months to 2 Years | 2 Years to 3 Years | 3 Years to 5 Years | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 5 Full days a week | £342 | £337 | £332 |
| 1 Day | £75 | £74 | £73 |
| Morning | £44 | £44 | £44 |
| Afternoon | £43 | £43 | £43 |
FAQs
Have a question? Find answers below to some of the questions parents ask us most often.
When are nursery fees due?
Fees are payable monthly in advance. Payment dates will be confirmed when your child starts with us.
Can I combine funded childcare with paid sessions?
Yes. Many families combine Government-funded childcare with additional paid sessions to create a childcare arrangement that suits their needs.
What happens if I need extra childcare?
Subject to availability, additional sessions may be booked at our current nursery rates.
Please speak to our team to discuss availability.
Do you accept Tax-Free Childcare?
Yes. Eligible families may be able to use Tax-Free Childcare to help reduce childcare costs.
Please contact us if you would like further information.
Will I receive a fee schedule?
Yes.
Before your child starts nursery, we will provide you with a clear breakdown of your agreed attendance pattern, funding (where applicable) and any associated charges.
Still have a question?
Find out about nursery fees at The Ark as well as information about funded childcare, healthy nutrition and policies, or contact us to arrange a visit.
Parents Information
Find out about nursery fees at The Ark as well as information about nutrition, policies, bookings and viewings.
TESTIMONIALS
