5 questions to ask when choosing a nursery school near you

Finding a nursery school near you can feel overwhelming. Every setting looks welcoming on a website, so how do you know which one is genuinely right for your child? The best way is to ask the right questions. Below are five questions we encourage every parent to ask, along with how we answer them at The Hub Buckshaw in Buckshaw Village, Chorley.

1. How does the nursery define early years education?

Every nursery has its own philosophy. Some lean heavily towards structured, adult-led learning, while others focus almost entirely on free play. Ask each setting to explain how it defines early years education and how it balances the two, because that approach shapes your child's day.

At our nursery, we believe in a healthy mix of play and learning where both free and guided activities are offered to promote inquisitive minds and interaction with peers. Children learn best when they are curious and engaged, so we let them explore and lead their own play while our team gently guides them towards new skills. You can read more about our thinking in our post on the role of play in early childhood education.

2. What qualifications and experience do the staff hold?

The people who care for your child matter more than any piece of equipment. Ask about staff qualifications, experience and ratios, and whether the team receives ongoing training. Qualified, experienced practitioners have a direct impact on the quality of care and learning your child receives.

At The Hub, every member of our team who works with children holds training in early childhood education, and many have been with us for years. That consistency helps children build trusting relationships and feel secure while they learn and play.

3. Is the nursery Ofsted rated, and what accreditations does it hold?

Independent inspection is one of the clearest signals of quality. Ask whether the nursery is registered with Ofsted, when it was last inspected and what rating it received. It is also worth asking about wider accreditations that show a commitment to safety and best practice.

Our nursery is rated Ofsted Outstanding across every available area and holds the Millie's Mark accreditation, which recognises settings where every member of staff is trained in paediatric first aid. We have looked after local families since 2011, so there is a long track record you can rely on.

4. How will my child settle in and feel secure?

A confident, happy child learns more. Ask how the nursery approaches settling-in sessions, whether your child will have a key person who gets to know them, and how the team keeps you updated through the day. A good setting will welcome your questions and encourage you to visit before you decide.

We offer settling-in sessions so your child can get used to their new surroundings gradually, and each child has familiar faces who understand their routines, interests and needs. Strong home and nursery communication means you always know how your child's day has gone.

5. What are the practicalities: location, hours, funding and food?

Even the best nursery has to work for your family day to day. Ask about opening hours, funded places, fees, meals and how easy the setting is to reach. Small practical details, such as parking or a healthy menu, can make a big difference over a busy week.

The Hub is at Unity Place, Buckshaw Village, Chorley, PR7 7HZ, just off the M6 with free on-site parking, so drop-off and pick-up are simple. We welcome families from across Buckshaw Village, Chorley, Leyland, Euxton, Preston and Whittle-le-Woods, and our on-site Splash pool and Cappuccino café make us a genuine hub for local families.

Come and see for yourself

The clearest way to answer all five questions is to visit in person. We warmly invite you to look around our preschool in Chorley, meet the team and see how your child would spend their day. Call us on 01772 456108 or enquire online to arrange a visit.