is for aims. To create a safe stimulating and challenging environment, where learning and discovery is fun. We want to ensure that your child positively benefits from being in our care.

is for bringing and collecting your child. Although we operate regular hours (8am to 6pm), every effort is made to accommodate changes to these hours to suit your lifestyle. Given sufficient time and demand the nursery may operate outside normal hours. If you are unable to escape a last minute office or other engagement, to ensure continuity of care, we will try to find a member of staff to carry out babysitting services for you.

is for commitment. Alphabet Day Nurseries are committed to the development of your child and working with you in partnership. We welcome parents taking the time to discuss their child's progress. Each term we arrange meetings with you to discuss your child's development.

is for documentation. At Alphabet Day Nurseries we document information relating to the names of staff looking after your children, accident records, medication records and the child's daily progress. The records are openly shared with parents.

is for the education of each individual child. We use a structured curriculum covering six broad areas: Language and Literacy, Mathematical, Personal Social and Emotional, Knowledge and Understanding of the World, Creative development and Physical development. The education we provide will be developed further by the child's primary school in what is known as the Foundation Stage.

is for facilities. All our furnishings and equipment are updated regularly to ensure high levels of safety and hygiene. The equipment is also extensive, ranging from computers for the older children to high quality mats and cots for the younger children.

is for groups of children. Each Alphabet Day Nursery caters for approximately 48 children split into 3 age groups; 12 children aged 3 months to 2 years, 20 children aged 2 to 3 years and 16 children aged 3 to 5 years. Furthermore, each group of children is divided into smaller groups of 3 or 4.

is for happiness. The ethos of Alphabet Day Nurseries is to provide a place where children can feel secure and cared for in a happy and fun environment.

is for individual. We recognize that each child has individual needs. To further each child's progress, we allocate a key member of staff to each child so that their development can be carefully monitored.

is for joy of learning. The children learn through a happy and play orientated environment. The older children play "mock classrooms". These games hone children's listening skills and prepare them for primary school.

is for kit. Each day is carefully planned with various activities. Children need to be practically dressed with a spare set of clothing, all clearly labeled. In addition, as many activities take place outside, toddlers should bring Wellington boots.

is for location. Alphabet Day Nurseries are conveniently located on the grounds of local schools. Please telephone for details of an Alphabet Day Nursery closest to you.

is for meals. The fees are inclusive of breakfast, lunch and tea. We ensure all meals are nutritionally balanced. Staff sit with children to help them master the use of cutlery and general conversation.

is for a no-smoking policy that is in operation and complied with at all Alphabet Day Nurseries. n is also for our nurturing environment.

is for an open-door policy. At Alphabet Day Nurseries we welcome you dropping in to see us in operation at any time. O is also for OFSTED. We are independently assessed by OFSTED on a regular basis ensuring that all national standards laid down by government are consistently met.

is for play. We encourage children to learn through planned play activities such as singing, painting, walking, swimming and exploring the properties of different natural and man-made materials. Small group activities help the children to build a rapport with the staff and learn vital early socialization skills.

is for quality control. We are committed to quality and operate in accordance with documented policies concerning health and safety, curriculum, staff training and other important areas relating to your child's care. You can inspect these policies on request.

is for routine. The children follow a routine to give structure to the day. Details of the routine applicable to individual children will be given to their parents. R is also for relationships which we hope you will establish with all nursery staff, and in particular those immediately caring for your child.

is for staff. A high staff to children ratio is in operation. For example, for children under the age of two, the staff: child ratio is at least 1:3. Our qualified and carefully vetted staff at each Alphabet Day Nursery consist of a manager and deputy manager, nursery nurses and a number of assistants.

is for transition. We understand the move from home to a nursery is a big step for you and your child. We hope to make the transition as smooth as possible. Prior to your child joining us, the manager and your child's key worker will meet with you. At this meeting we will discuss your child's routine at home, sleep patterns, dietary and any other specific needs. Until you feel comfortable your child has settled in, we will discuss with you on a daily basis, how well he or she has eaten, involvement in activities, sleep patterns and so forth.

is for updating. We ensure that all records are regularly updated relating to children's medical condition, parents contact details and any other relevant issues. The provisions of the Data Protection Act 1998 are strictly applied.

is for vigilance. If any person other than the registered parent is collecting the child, the staff must be informed first. Evidence of the identity of the person collecting the child and a password will be required.

is for welfare. Key workers take responsibility for particular children to ensure a bond is quickly formed with your child. W is also for waiting. Should classes be in progress we would ask parents to wait to avoid disrupting the children.

is for xmas. We close only on Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, Boxing Day, New Years Eve, New Years Day and statutory holidays.

is for you. Your views and contributions in relation to all aspects of nursery life are very important and valued by us. Please do not hesitate to raise any matter with the staff. Depending on the nature of the issue, it will be dealt with either immediately, or as soon as practical.