Advice on starting a nursery

[Guest]

Hi

I am after advice on starting a nursery. I am in the very early stages, hence the lack of specific questions. I am really after pointers to sources of information and experiences, good and bad of anyone who has started one in the last few years.

 

I am currently a qualified teacher with an Early Years specialism and have two years reception experience and two years in year one. I am in my forties which has its downsides but does mean I also have lots of sales and management experience and hands on building skills from a previous life which should prove useful.

 

Ideally I would like to buy premises and combine a family home with a small (initially) nursery business operating from a semi self contained part of the house. I am not sure how likely planning approval would be for such a venture but I did read recent changes to planning laws have made this scenario more likely. Failing that it would have to be leasehold premises, probably buying a going concern.

I know, not very specific and maybe a bit unrealistic but you have to start somewhere and any advice is gratefully received!

 

[Wildflowers]

Be enthusiastic and a bit naive. If you get all the information you may not get started! I certainly didn't expect it to involve all that it does, and that I would still be creating a setting that meets my vision 10 years later! Actually, to have a clear vision is probably my best advice. And make sure you get enough sleep... Oh, another thing - respond fully to each problem that comes your way. Many of our policies, procedures, practices and plans come from mistakes and frustrations. That way it gets easier and easier!

[sunnyday]

Hello

Wish i was still 'in my forties' can't think of any 'downsides' at all

Have you spoken with the LA - they may well have something to say re local 'needs'

Aside from that - go for it - it's hard work but incredibly rewarding (although, sadly, not financially)

[bubblejack]

Its hard work I often spend as much time at home doing paperwork but its a very rewarding job and as

others say not financially, more a hobby really. As regards using your home I think if you sell your

home in the future there may be disadvantages financiall .Good luck if you go ahead

Edited December 4, 2014 by bubblejack

[woodlands1997]

We operate from the family home so are classed as childcare on domestic premises - it has its downsides but generally is fantastic! We started nearly 20 years ago so can't give any up to date advice regarding planning or anything though I am afraid! Good luck :-)

[LKeyteach]

I rent a property not far from where I live. This works well for me. Not sure I wish to share my home.

But agree with other owners it is the best decision I have made. I am forever being surprised by new elements to my job. ATM dealing with solicitors & surveyors & insurance brokers because of a clause sneaked into my new lease.

Go for it. We are always here to help.

[Guest]

Thanks for the advice, it all seems positive which seems a good thing. A previous search turned up a thread asking whether current owners would make the same decision to start again and the answer was generally no. I prefer positive. Stupid hours I already do as a teacher so that is not a problem. About to have my first child to so time for some brave decisions and a new start. I have a vision which I know parents and children love. My current school has a vision which they perceive ofsted may love. I want to go back to that creative, risk taking, child centred, play based curriculum they told me about on my pgce.

[MarshaD]

Hi Capital 1965

 

I too taught in early years before the pressure to be shoehorned into an OFSTED shaped hole got too much for me. I went into teaching to be creative, autonomous and to make a difference not be a Stepford teacher. I opened up a pack away preschool in September so different setting to you. I couldn't afford dedicated premises and not sure I wanted it to take over my home as well as my life which it inevitably has. You know yourself from teaching that a job working with children can fill every hour of every day, but I already feel at risk of burning out and I haven't done a full term yet! The pressure of running your own business adds a different dimension, so remember to look after yourself. Especially so as you've a baby on the way which is a whole other challenge in itself!

 

I would say allow plenty of time for registration. Mine took almost 26 weeks to the day. Now waiting for an inspection which could be any minute now or in 30 months! Also be prepared for a slow start. It takes a while for the word to get out, but my mantra has become 'build it and they will come!'

 

Good luck.

[MarshaD]

Sorry forgot to say check with your planning office what policy is on change of use. I was told that the council here were very reluctant to change residential to commercial, as housing stock so much in demand.

[WChurchill]

I set up a school nursery but I didn't choose the TAs. The ones that were chosen were clueless re early years and had no desire to learn. That was my biggest struggle. Best of luck.

[Guest Nuby]

We are just startng out. In the process of securing premises. Its been a hard few months dealing with the landlord. But every frustration is a step closer to the dream!