Admission Process

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At Clare’s Little Bears Preschool in Stevenage, we welcome children from 9 months through to Reception age.

We recommend arranging a tour of the preschool as a first step. Parents are then asked to complete a waiting list/registration form (fees are payable at the time of application). If on the waitlist you will be contacted as soon as a space becomes available. Once a space has been offered, the £195 registration fee/deposit is required to secure ved and your child’s place and sessions you require and start the enrollment process.   

 

This includes arranging settling-in sessions and setting up your login to the Famly app. You will be contacted prior to your child’s start date and sent your first terms invoice and welcome pack containing all the information you need to support a smooth start at Clare’s Little Bears Preschool.

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We believe building a strong partnership with parents from the very beginning is key to helping children feel safe, secure and confident in our care.

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Settle Sessions

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We understand that starting preschool is a big step for both children and parents, so we offer a gradual and flexible settling-in process tailored to each child.

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Our typical settling sessions include:

• A 1-hour session with a parent/carer, allowing your child to meet their key person and for paperwork and routines to be discussed.

• A 2-hour session with a parent/carer, helping your child become more familiar with the environment.

• A 1-hour session where your child attends independently.

• A 3-hour session with your child attending on their own.

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Every child is different — some settle very quickly, while others may need more time. We are always happy to offer additional settling sessions to ensure your child feels comfortable and confident.

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For our babies, we take a gentler approach with a meet-and-greet and a slower, more gradual settling-in phase, allowing strong bonds to form at your child’s pace.

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Tips

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• Talk positively about preschool and what your child can expect.

• Keep goodbyes calm and reassuring — children take their cues from you.

• Bring a familiar comfort item if this helps your child feel secure.

• Share any concerns or information with your child’s key person — we’re here to help.

 

Our team will work closely with you to make the transition into Clare’s Little Bears as happy and stress-free as possible 

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