What do nurseries and playgroups offer?
Nurseries and playgroups are for children under five years old. They can play, learn and have fun in groups, while their parents work, study or are busy elsewhere.
Nurseries provide full-time childcare for children aged 0 to 5. Part-time care may be available. Nurseries are popular with parents who work or study. Costs vary, and places will be available under free childcare for 2-4 years.
Playgroups provide part-time childcare for children aged 2-5. Children spend 2 ½ to 3 hours there in the morning or afternoon during term-time. Costs are low, and most places will be funded under free childcare for 2-4 years. Playgroups are popular with parents who are home during the day.
School nursery classes in primary schools provide free part-time education for children aged 3-4 (sometimes starting at 2). The classes are with teachers and are usually for five mornings or five afternoons per week. Places are term time only.
Children's centre charges
The amount you need to pay for nursery provision at a children's centre depends on your child's age and your income.
Hackney Family Information Service
The Hackney Family Information Service (FIS) offers free, impartial advice and information on childcare, paying for childcare, funded places for 2-4 year olds as well as information and advice on local services and activities for children and families.
- Telephone 020 8820 7590, Monday to Friday, 9am to 5pm
- Email fis@hackney.gov.uk
- Visit the FIS Facebook, Instagram or Twitter pages
- View the FIS leaflet (PDF)
- Make an appointment to meet us in person
Other support
Hackney Local offer: Hackney's Local Offer website sets out information about services and support available for children and young people with special educational needs and/or disability (SEND) who are aged 0 to 25. It also offers more general information on childcare and family support.
- Go to the Local Offer website