Frequently asked questions
How will my child learn?
At Crackerjacks, we use the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) curriculum to plan a balance of adult and child-led activities in a safe and child-centred environment which supports children’s emotional, physical and educational development. The EYFS encourages learning through play and discovery. See More
Do you have a uniform?
We offer an optional uniform. See here for more information.
What sessions/hours do you offer?
We offer morning sessions from 8.45 am to 11.45 am and afternoon sessions from 12.30 pm to 3.30 pm. A lunch club is available so children are able to attend for full days.
We are open term time only.
Do you offer Government funding?
Yes we do. From the term after your child turns 3 they will be entitled to government funding for 15 hours per week. As funding only starts from the term after your child is 3, we will invoice you for sessions your child attends during the term in which they are 3. If you think you may be eligible for 2 year old funding, please let us know.
You may be eligible for a further 15 hours funding, a total of 30 hours, through the Government’s “extended offer” provided you meet certain conditions. If you are, you will need to apply for a code before the term in which you wish to claim it. We will need this code in order to claim the funding from our Local Authority.
Visit the Childcare Choices website to find out what you might be eligible for.
How much do you charge for a Session?
Click here for our fees
How will you communicate with me?
All children attending Crackerjacks have a personal on-line Learning Journal where we record photos, observations and assessments of their progress and development.
We use ‘Famly’ which is an app you can easily access on your phone, tablet or laptop. You will have secure access (via email address and a password) to your child’s Learning Journal.
We also use Famly to keep you informed by sending regular information and updates on the app’s Newsfeed. Important information will be sent to you by email as well.
As a parent, how can I get involved?
Crackerjacks is a charity, run by a committee of parents and members of the community who are responsible for the management of the Preschool. Their duties include managing the finances, supporting the staff, overseeing policies and practice, fundraising and organising social events. Being part of the Committee while your child is attending Crackerjacks enables you to be part of providing the best experiences for the children and allows you to have a say in important decisions about how Crackerjacks is run and operates.
Committee members are voted in at our Annual General Meeting, usually held in October.
What does my child need to bring?
Please bring a named water bottle to every session. Please also remember to name coats and hats etc. as appropriate. We have lots of messy play activities at Crackerjacks so we suggest you dress your child in comfortable play clothing. In case they get wet or dirty, please bring in a spare change of clothes for every session.
Personal items can be easily lost so please try and encourage your child to leave treasures at home. Please also think carefully about allowing your child to wear jewellery to Crackerjacks- some items may get broken or cause a choking hazard. Please note that hooped earring are not allowed.
If your child is attending lunch club, please bring a healthy and well balanced packed lunch. Also we are a nut free nursery which means all ingredients must be nut free.
Who will look after my child?
When your child starts at Crackerjacks they will be assigned a member of staff as their Key Person. Their Key Person will oversee your child’s learning and progress. They will coordinate observations of your child at play and record this in your child’s online Learning Journal. Your child’s Key Person is your main point of contact regarding your child’s development and you will be given the opportunity to meet with your child’s Key Person regularly.
Our first language is not English – How will you help me?
If you or your child does not speak English we will include them in whatever way we can. We are happy to introduce familiar words into our environment and communications with your child. We understand that every family is different and we will work with you and your family in the best way we can to support you and make you feel welcome and included
How will you help my child if there are concerns about their development?
All children are different and will develop in different areas at different rates so please don’t be alarmed if your child doesn’t seem to be able to do everything their peers are doing. If your child needs extra support, we will work with you to put plans in place to ensure your child is able to achieve their full potential.
Do you provide a snack?
We provide a snack during each session which usually includes a piece of fruit and a bread stick or cracker. We also offer a cup of milk or water.
What if my child has any special requirements? e.g allergies or medication
If your child has any special requirements regarding their diet please speak to a member of staff to arrange a plan for your child before they start.
What is a typical day at Crackerjacks?
8:45 (morning sessions) or 12:30 (afternoon session) – The children will be welcomed with a wide variety of activities available for your child to choose from. Each of these activities are linked to our 7 areas of learning.
10:00am or 1:30pm – We meet together for carpet time
10:15 am or 1:45pm – Snack time – We provide A drink of milk or water & a selection of fruit and either a breadstick or cracker.
10:30am or 2pm – Free choice of activities
11:25am or 2:55pm – Tidy up time
11:30am or 3pm – Group activity
11:40-11:45am – 3:10-3:30pm – Home time
If you have any further questions, please contact us