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Beat the Deadline 2026
Apply for your funding code
What's actually happening
Funded childcare hours are available for children from nine months old up to school age, for working families who qualify.
To get that funding from September, you need to apply for your eligibility code by 31st August. Apply on 1st September and the funding doesn't begin until January — which means a full autumn term at full fees.
The application itself is free, it's done through the government childcare account, and it takes most parents a few minutes to complete. The genuinely difficult part is knowing the deadline exists at all.
Not sure if you qualify? Eligibility depends on working hours and income, and it's worth checking rather than assuming. We'll go through it with you on the tour, or you can check it yourself in two minutes. Check your eligibility
Book a visit in August and pay no registration fee. Enrol in September 2026 and be automatically entered into our prize draw.
We'd rather you were making this decision properly than in a panic on the 30th. So for August only
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£0 registration fee
Take a tour and enrol in the month of August and we'll waive the registration fee completely.
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Win a month's fees free
Everyone who tours in August and enrols for September goes into our prize draw. First prize is a full month's nursery fees, credited against your third month.
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Second and third prizes
Second prize £500 off your third month's fees.
Third prize £250 off your third month's fees.
The draw takes place on Friday 11th October once September places are confirmed.
Why choose Family First Nurseries
97 Nurseries
10,000+ Happy Families
2500+ Incredible Team Members
9.4 Average Rating on DayNurseries
Our promises kept through parents words
Review Score for Family First Nurseries
4788 reviews
July 23, 2026
Review of Footsteps Nursery Fradley
Fradley footsteps has been amazing as my first experience with a nursery. My little one enjoys it so much and it only took him a month or so to settle in. The baby room has been so attentive and caring and he has already learnt so much within such a short time. The food choices are varied and healthy and they keep you updated of any menu changes. Lots of outdoor play time and sand/water activities. Would highly recommend to any parents who are looking for a nursery.
Priya D
July 23, 2026
Review of Just Imagine Day Nursery - Wickford London Road
Both my 1 year old and 4 year old attend the nursery and it's been nothing short of wonderful. They have no issues going in, the staff genuinely care about the children and never seem flustered. My 4 year old spent her first 2 years at a different nursery and i can't begin to explain how much better this nursery has been for her. The staff are fantastic. My son has quite a lot of allergies and they deal with it brilliantly so that i have zero concerns.
Nicole B
July 22, 2026
Review of Just Imagine Day Nursery - Wickford London Road
Have sent both my children to just imagine London road. My oldest is now at starting junior school and my youngest is about to move into the pre school room. I've always been happy with the care of my children and both of them loved their days there.
Lucy M
July 22, 2026
Review of Just Imagine Day Nursery - Wickford London Road
Just Imagine is an outstanding childcare provider that genuinely puts children at the heart of everything they do.The communication from the staff is consistently excellent, keeping parents fully informed and connected to their child's daily routine. What truly sets this nursery apart is how deeply the educators get to know each child. They understand my child's unique personality, quirks, and interests, creating a tailored environment where they can truly thrive.They provide fantastic support for early development, balancing structured learning with creative play. Furthermore, their handling of health needs is exemplary. Whenever medical issues arise, the team provides the absolute best care and support possible, strictly following their professional guidelines to ensure safety and peace of mind.Overall, the team at Just Imagine shows immense love, warmth, and genuine care every single day, making it a safe and nurturing home away from home.
Cari L
July 22, 2026
Review of Just Imagine Day Nursery - Wickford London Road
Great nursery. My daughter loves it, she's made loads of friends and often talks about nursery, the staff and her friends at home! Staff are all incredible! My son also used to attend the nursery and still talks about it. Makes going to work easier knowing the kids are looked after.
Amie J
July 22, 2026
Review of
My daughter loves going to Nursery, and she has made good friends and enjoys playing with other kids. I also receive regular updates from the teachers, which tell me how my daughter has been in that day. I would recommend the nursery to anyone.
Y O
July 22, 2026
Review of
We have been using the nursery for our son Vikram. I would recommend it to any parents who want to use this facility. Happy leaving our kid felt safe and secure. The learning and equipment is good, and the staff are friendly.
Deepak T
July 22, 2026
Review of
We've taken our daughter to the childcare hub since she was 11 months and it's been an absolute pleasure. The staff are great, attentive, friendly and helpful. We've been very comfortable during these years and our daughter has really enjoyed it.
J M
July 21, 2026
Review of Footsteps Nursery Fazeley
I feel very happy with my child being at this nursery, I know she has a great day of activities and learns so much. She always comes home with a new sound, word and even dance moves! The activities and play they provide align with my child's interests as well as exploring new things she hasn't played with before. I love that she has forest school every week because she gets to enjoy and explore nature which is important to us as a family. She always enjoys all of her food and they offer a great variety of different foods for her to try. If I have any concerns or worries I always feel able to share them with the nursery staff. I feel reassured that she is happy, well cared for, loved and enjoys her days there.
L H
July 19, 2026
Review of The Beaconsfield Day Nursery & Pre-School
My son started in May 25 and we be leaving this summer to start school. I have nothing but positive things to say about the nursery, staff and support we have both received. We have had a traumatic past 12 months and the staff have gone above beyond to make sure he is happy and progressing well in his early years. He has come on so much since he started and grown in confidence every day. I am sad it's has come to the end of his time at nursery.
Jamie S
July 18, 2026
Review of Footsteps Nursery Lichfield Road
Brilliant staff great provisions the forest school is absolutely fantastic. The children are always really well cared for. The open day was absolutely brilliant, really inclusive for us as I have a child with SEN needs, great time!
B R
July 18, 2026
Review of Footsteps Nursery Lichfield Road
Very engaging nursery. Full of activities and learning for all kids. The safeguarding is great and secure. Staff communicate well and ensure the kids a well cared for. Lots of resources for the kids to learn and play. The routine at the nursery has helped my son develop and understand the world around him.
Temi O
July 18, 2026
Review of Footsteps Nursery Lichfield Road
Overall I have great experience from the nursery. The staff is very friend, always give a brief when I pick my daughter. Consult with us for her diet and always update us with important info for our daughter. I highly recommend them.
Joseph A
July 17, 2026
Review of Manor Farm Day Nursery
It's a really lovely nursery, the staff are extremely friendly and welcoming. My child has learnt so much in the short space of time that they have been there. I'm able to go to work knowing that my child is being well looked after.
D W
July 17, 2026
Review of Little Munchkins Montessori Nursery
My daughter has had a brilliant preparation to start reception. She is happy and her unique quirks are known and celebrated by the fabulous staff who take care of her. The nursery supports parents with frequent updates and additional sessions to play with your child and learn parenting skills. I am enormously grateful to them.
Hanna S
July 16, 2026
Review of The Bourne End Day Nursery & Pre-School
Staff are very friendly and clearly care about the children. The photos that come through on the app are always lovely to see; knowing what my child has been up to in a day is very reassuring.
K J
July 16, 2026
Review of The Bourne End Day Nursery & Pre-School
My son has been attending this nursery for past two years, and the support he has received has been outstanding. The nursery has been incredibly understanding and accommodating with his behaviour, as well as any changes to his attendance pattern. The staff are always warm, welcoming, and genuinely caring. They take the time to get to know each child as an individual and consistently ensure that every child feels safe, supported, and valued. We are very grateful for the care and dedication they show every day.
K E
July 16, 2026
Review of The Bourne End Day Nursery & Pre-School
My child has recently started at the nursery, and our experience so far has been positive! The staff are very friendly, welcoming and supportive, making the settling in provcess easier for both me and my child. We are looking forward to seeing them continue and grow here! The management team lead with care and maintains good communication with parents and are committed to providing a high standard of care!
A G
July 16, 2026
Review of Footsteps Nursery Fazeley
I would and do recommend footsteps Fazeley to anyone. Both daughters absolutely love it there and have made lots of friends. 10/10 for staff, facilities, food and activities. My eldest will be very sad to leave!
Becki F
July 16, 2026
Review of Woodberry Day Nursery Fawley & Pre-School
My daugter attends here and I could not fault the staff at all. When she started her development was behind. She was down as a failure to thrive. However since starting here last year she has flourished and grown so fast. I dont even recognise her when looking at old photos and videos anymore. The staff here are so supportive and go above and beyond, not only for the children but the parents too. My daugter has learnt so much and I am sad to see her leave this year for big school! I would recommend this nursery to anyone looking for a placement for thier child! They offer a range of activitys that are fun and allow the children to lean whild doing it. The garden space is amazing, there is to do from water play to bikes that they can ride!
Elizabeth S
July 15, 2026
Review of Footsteps Nursery Fazeley
When we were looking at options for where to place our son, Fazeley was our second visit of the day. We knew straight away it was the right place for him and we've been proved right ever since. His relationship with the staff is lovely to see, and they've helped nurture his little personality and he has come on a bundle. It's lovely to see. We get regular feedback and updates and most importantly we have 100% trust in the nursery.
Tim W
July 15, 2026
Review of Play Away Day Nurseries - Totton
Play Away has provided both my children with a caring, nurturing environment. They have both attended the nursery from the age of one and have thrived at every stage. Both my children have loved exploring the large nursery gardens which are filled with such a variety of activities on a daily basis. I viewed many other nurseries in the area who had very small gardens in comparison. I partially liked that the under two's have their own garden space. Attending a large nursery well equipped my children in the transition school as the class size was similar. I highly recommend Play Away Day Nursery, Totton if you are looking for a nursery for little one.
S S
July 15, 2026
Review of Just Imagine Day Nursery - Wickford Station Avenue
We cannot thank everyone at the nursery enough for the love, care, and dedication they have shown to both of our children over the years. Our daughter had such a wonderful experience there, and now our son has too. From the very beginning, the staff made them feel safe, happy, and valued. It has been so reassuring as parents to know they were in such caring and capable hands every day. The team has always been kind, patient, and supportive, creating a warm and nurturing environment where children can learn, grow, and build confidence. We've seen both of our children develop socially, emotionally, and academically, and we truly appreciate all the hard work that goes into making the nursery such a special place. A heartfelt thank you to every member of staff for everything you have done for our family. The positive impact you've had on our children's early years will stay with them for a long time. We feel incredibly grateful to have been part of such a wonderful nursery.
Momtaj K
July 15, 2026
Review of CherryPark Nursery
As an extremely anxious mummy, I was so nervous about placing my son in nursery. However, I already knew about Cherry Park Nursery because my goddaughter attended, and I'd always heard such wonderful things about the staff. From my very first visit through to the settling-in process, I cannot thank Hannah and Hayley enough. They have been absolutely incredible-so kind, reassuring, and supportive. They made what felt like such a daunting experience so much easier, and they helped my son settle in beautifully. The whole nursery is dedicated, caring, and compassionate. The room leaders are fantastic, the nursery is always clean and welcoming, and the food is brilliant. Most importantly, my son absolutely loves it there. Every morning he happily jumps out of my arms and runs in with a huge smile, which gives me complete peace of mind. To any mummy who is feeling anxious or worried about sending their little one to nursery, I wholeheartedly recommend Cherry Park Nursery. It has been the
Victoria D
July 14, 2026
Review of The Clapham Day Nursery & Pre-School
My daughter started going to Clapham day when she a was 9 months old and we couldn't be happier. The staff are incredibly nurturing, attentive, and care about the children's well-being. The nursery does an amazing job balancing fun with early development and they make sure to get the children involved in arts, outdoor play, and interactive learning. It's just sad that we have to leave the nursery as we are relocating. A massive thank you to Chamille and all the staff for the care that you gave to my daughter while she was there.
M M
July 14, 2026
Review of Little Munchkins Montessori Nursery
We honestly couldn't be happier with Little Munchkins Montessori nursery. Our son has been attending since he was just 10 months old, and watching him grow, learn, and enjoy his time there has been wonderful. The staff are kind, caring, and always make us feel that our children are in safe hands. Choosing the same nursery for our daughter was an easy decision because of the positive experience we've had. We truly appreciate everything the team does and are grateful for the love, care, and support they give our children every day. We highly recommend this nursery to any family looking for a warm and nurturing environment.
O T
July 14, 2026
Review of Poppies Holmer Green
My daughter has attended poppies holmer green for just over a month now and is learning and developing everyday. The staff at the nursery do their upmost to ensure my child has a productive and enjoyable time at nursery when she attends. She has so much fun with her friends participating in the daily interactive activities that the staff organise and has learned to sit up all by herself with the support of her key worker and staff in her room. The management are very clear at communicating and are always happy to listen and answer any questions I have. Overall, Poppies day nursery has helped my daughter learn and grow and is a wonderful environment for her to develop her skills and make new friends.
Tamika K
July 14, 2026
Review of Pinecones Day Nursery
We highly recommend Pinecones to any parent seeking exceptional childcare. From our son's first days in the baby room, the team welcomed him with genuine warmth and treated him with the same care and attentiveness we would provide at home. The dedication of the staff is outstanding. He has been consistently nurtured through a wealth of thoughtful activities that have led to remarkable progress in his speech, social skills, and independence. As our son thrives outdoors, we are also incredibly grateful for their commitment to outdoor play in almost all weather conditions. The leadership and communication are exemplary. Gemma is a highly visible, hands-on manager who knows every child individually and ensures parental input is valued. Additionally, the nursery offers a fantastic, diverse menu that has encouraged our son to try a wide variety of foods. Pinecones has helped our son grow into a confident, expressive, and sociable young boy.
J D
July 14, 2026
Review of Play Away Day Nurseries - Totton
Lovely care for our son, during the hot days the nursery did everything they possible could to make him feel comfortable and happy. We wouldn't think of anywhere else to have our son placed. Playaways are an amazing nursery.
Greg P
July 14, 2026
Review of Woodberry Day Nursery Fawley & Pre-School
From my son's previous nursery where he struggled to settle I moved him to woodberry and never looked back! Every member of staff are friendly, approachable and my son absolutely loves it there! Daily updates and lots of activities put on for the children. Couldn't recommend this nursery enough.
Danielle P
July 14, 2026
Review of Just Imagine Day Nursery - Wickford Station Avenue
My daughter had been attending this nursery since she was 2 and I honestly can not stress enough how absolutely amazing the staff are at this nursery. They have made this journey so amazing for us and given her the best nursery experience she could've had. Please, if you live in wickford and are looking for a nursery for your child, I couldn't recommend any other nursery more than this one. They are very inclusive to all children's needs so it's perfect for anyone.
Ashleigh S
July 14, 2026
Review of Little Explorers
The staff at little explorers are incredible, they all go above and before! It's a very calm and welcoming environment and my son is very happy and settled here, I'll be sad when he leaves next year! My son needed some extra support transitioning into nursery when he first started and the staff were fantastic at meeting his needs.
L M
July 14, 2026
Review of Footsteps Nursery Dosthill
The best nursery in area. Good quality food, lots of activities, focus on development. Skilled carers, work with dedication and passion. Communication with staff is always very good. Our boy is very happy over there and we recommend the nursery to all of our friends. We have experience somewhere else with our firstborn and I must admit that overall quality at footsteps is much better.
Urszula C
July 13, 2026
Review of Brimpton House Nursery
My daughter has been attending Brimpton House for almost a year and she has thrived! The members of staff are so lovely, approachable & have a real care and passion for what they do. Her development in all aspects has improved massively - she's even teaching me Makaton! And it's great that the nursery keep us updated on key activities or milestones through the app.
K B
July 13, 2026
Review of Just Imagine Day Nursery - Wickford Station Avenue
Both my kids have been going to Just Imagine Wickford since we moved into the area in 2024. My daughter has since started school and still attends the afterschool club. All the staff at the nursery are kind, cheerful and supportive with the kids wellbeing and development. Keep up the good work and would recommend this place to anyone thinking of sending their kids to nursery!
Kam S
July 13, 2026
Review of Prima Montessori & Day Nursery
Really impressed with this setting. We have two children that attend and they are both really happy there. The staff are attentive and really get to know the children there on an individual basis. Siobhan is amazing and is so helpful with every request. She also supports my mother who sometimes picks up three children! Mel, Ashleigh and Sharon in junior monti room are fabulous with our son and summer and Chloe are amazing in the baby room. We have noticed our baby has really developed since being there.
Chayla L
July 13, 2026
Review of Woodberry Day Nursery Fawley & Pre-School
My child attends the nursery and he always comes home with a smile on his face. I feel at ease when he is there, the curriculum of activities is great, the staff are professional, kind and compassionate. As a parent I am always kept up to date with any changes. I would happily recommend the nursery to family, friends and the wider community. Thank you for all you do Woodberry Day Nursery.
S P
July 13, 2026
Review of Poppies Holmer Green
A lovely team with great enthusiasm and nurturing qualities. Both of my children go to Poppies Holmer Green and have enjoyed everyday to its fullest! Home cooked meals with interesting and inclusive activities set daily to keep all children engaged. Both key workers have secure bonds with my children, knowing their daily routines, comforters, etc. We love to receive observations and a daily run down of their day including images.
Casey B
July 13, 2026
Review of Brimpton House Nursery
Our daughter has been attending Brimpton house since January, when she was 11 months old, and we are very happy with our choice. She absolutely loves nursery and has come on so much since staring. It's lovely to see how much she has learnt and her confidence grow :) the staff are all kind and clearly care about the children. They come up with creative ideas / activities that I would never think of myself! The outdoor garden space is great too with lots for the children to play with. We definitely recommend Brimpton House nursery :)
Lilie S
July 13, 2026
Review of Flitwick Day Nursery
My child is very happy and loves the nursery very much. He loves it so much there. He laughs a lot when he sees the carers. He has developed his movement skills a lot. With every day spent there my boy is developing a lot and beautifully.
Elena G
July 13, 2026
Review of Just Imagine Day Nursery - Wickford Station Avenue
My son absolutely loves going to nursery which is down to Katie and her amazing team who have insured he settled in perfectly. The team are so welcoming every drop off, so informative on his day via the app and when picking him up. They answer any questions I have promptly which puts my mind at ease when working. He is so happy here and so lucky he got a space, somewhere I had that inital good feeling about. Highly recommend just imagine station avenue!!
Georgina W
July 12, 2026
Review of Just Imagine Day Nursery - Wickford Station Avenue
My son started attending the preschool when it opened in January and he has been so happy. At first he was a bit apprehensive going in because it was all new, but the staff went above and beyond to make him welcome and happy. He now talks about preschool with family members very positively and is excited to go. He tells us about his day and they always do fun activities. They have great resources too and communication is brilliant. Highly recommend.
Bex S
July 12, 2026
Review of Just Imagine Day Nursery - Wickford Station Avenue
Overall review My girls absolutely love going to nursery now, always excited to get in, all the staff are absolutely wonderful. They always notify me when one of my girls isn't well. One thing I love is the healthy meal plans they provide for the children. I've seen a great improvement in my daughters since starting till today from attending just imagine wickford station ave
Roxanne W
July 12, 2026
Review of Just Imagine Day Nursery - Wickford Station Avenue
Can not fault the team here. Since my son has started, although he is shy he has loved nursery. We're so grateful for all the love and support they have shown my son since he started in 2024. I look forward to my second son starting in Jan 2027. Thank you for being amazing.
Yvette N
July 12, 2026
Review of Just Imagine Day Nursery - Wickford Station Avenue
My son started at the nursery in January 2026, the staff have been exceptional and we are so happy with the level of care provided. He attends two days a week and each day he is excited to go in. He also has a gluten intolerance and the team have constantly adapted to his dietary changes. I would highly recommend this nursery.
Laura W
July 12, 2026
Review of Just Imagine Day Nursery - Wickford Station Avenue
My children have both attending this setting since September 2022 and between them have experienced every 'room' within the setting. The staff are second to none. They treat the children as if they are their own, and you can tell by the children's emotions when they are there and when speaking to them about the setting. The management are just some of the best that I know within childcare. There is nothing that they would not do to ensure that the children (and families) within the setting are cared for and achieving their highest potential. You couldn't find a more devoted nursery manager and that attitude is transferred down to her staff.
J E
July 11, 2026
Review of Brimpton House Nursery
We haven't been at Brimpton for very long, but so far we are blown away by the nursery. The care and attention that has been given to our child has been incredible. We have seen them continue to learn and grow more confident with each passing day that they spend there. The staff have been amazing, always keeping us updated on what our child has done each day, what they've had to eat and how they have helped to support them throughout their day. You get a real sense that the staff at Brimpton truly care about the happiness and wellbeing of your child. I cannot say enough good things about the nursery!
Chris J
July 10, 2026
Review of Prima Montessori & Day Nursery
Upon looking for a nursery we came across Prima Montessori through a recommendation. Soon as walked in on the visit we knew this was the nursery to send our son too. We came out feeling at ease knowing the cleanliness, care and safeguarding standards are set high and overall at the children looked like they was having fun whilst learning. We have been sending our son here for the past 2 months and he comes out so happy every time and with a full belly of food for the day, as all meals and snacks are provided, also milk and nappies too.. which makes the mornings for 2 working parents that little bit easier to get out the door on time, not having to worry about packing up and extras. The management and staff so lovely and helpful and know all the children by their names, they go above and beyond for them making first days and birthdays specials too. You won't be disappointed to send your little ones here!
K W
July 10, 2026
Review of Prima Montessori & Day Nursery
Our daughter has come on so much since being at Prima. All of the staff have been amazing with her and us we cannot speak highly enough of them. The whole nursery is very welcoming and from our first conversation about a visit to our daughters first day the communication was very professional and made her transition into a nursery setting very easy. Would recommend to anyone looking for a nursery.
T W
July 10, 2026
Review of Prima Montessori & Day Nursery
I cannot recommend this nursery highly enough. The staff have consistently gone above and beyond to provide exceptional care and support for my baby. From day one, they have created a safe, nurturing, and welcoming environment where my child feels happy, secure, and valued.The team genuinely care about each child and take the time to build strong relationships with both children and parents. Their dedication, kindness, and professionalism shine through in everything they do. The updates and communication are excellent, giving me complete confidence that my baby is receiving the very best care.It is clear that the staff are passionate about what they do, and their efforts have made a huge difference to our family.
Sophie U