In addition to the places provided by the Local Authority in nursery classes attached to primary schools and in the two nursery schools, we, through the Sure Start Team, work with a wide variety of early education providers in the voluntary, private and independent sectors. This helps us to ensure that there are enough places available and that the quality of early education meets national standards. Ofsted inspects all services operating within the early education scheme. Ofsted is the Government’s regulatory authority.
To get further information about
- your child’s early education entitlement or
- where the registered early education providers are
contact Wigan Children’s Information Service on 01942 486960.
All 3 and 4 year old children are now entitled to a part time early education place. We have places in local authority nurseries for about 60% of pre-school children. This information explains how to apply for a place at one of these.
Some nurseries provide extra services such as wrap around care and full day care. The Wigan Children's Information Service can provide you with more information about this.
Transfer from nursery to primary school
The Law says that children must start school at the start of the term after their fifth birthday at the latest. But, in Wigan, we currently provide a school place from the beginning of the school year in which your child turns five.
There is no guarantee that a child who has a place in a nursery will automatically get a place at the school to which the nursery is attached.
Places in nursery schools and classes
If your child is three on or before 31st August, they can be considered for a nursery place beginning in September.
At local authority nurseries:
- The place is usually for 12 months
- Places are part time, usually half day sessions, but some nurseries will offer the 5 sessions over 2 ½ days.
- The place is normally for the year before your child starts school
- If space is available, some children may start sooner
How to apply for a nursery place
We have included a list of local authority nursery schools and units in this leaflet. You can register your child’s name for a nursery class or school as soon as they are two years old.
If you want a place for your child in September you should contact the Headteacher of the school. Telephone numbers and addresses are on the list of nursery schools and units.
When you have completed your form:
- Return it to the Headteacher by the date set by the school
- Let school see your child’s birth certificate
Allocation of places
In the first instance priority will be given to children residing within the Wigan Borough.
