Compare the same hours
A half-day, full-day and extended-hours nursery are different products. Compare the weekly hours and the number of weeks per year, not just the monthly fee.
Age group and staff ratio
Fees often change by age group because the staff ratio changes. Ask for the ratio and the group size for your child’s age.
Registration and extras
Registration, assessment, uniforms, meals, transport and late-pickup fees may sit outside the tuition. Ask for the first-term total.
Inspection and safety
Check the licence, the inspection report and the staff turnover. A visit at pickup time shows you the real routine.
Notice and refund policy
Ask how much notice is required to withdraw and whether the registration fee is refundable. A waitlist deposit may not be refundable.