Frequently Asked Questions
How do I enrol my child at Noah’s Ark?
Please fill out our electronic waiting list on our home page of our website and we will be in touch with our availability for your requirements. When we offer places, we will then send you registration forms.
Can my child attend just an afternoon session?
No, since 2021 we now only provide morning sessions or full-days.
Do I qualify for Government funding for my child’s pre-school place?
The Government funds pre-school places for children aged 3-5 years. Please get in touch with us if you would like any more information.
Am I eligible for 2 year old funding?
Our pre-school accepts 2 year old funding as well. The Government funds some 2 year olds to attend pre-school. A member of our team can assist you in checking to see if you are eligible to claim for 2 year old funding.
My child is 3 years old, how do I claim funding?
Children aged 3-4 years old are entitled to 15 hours free childcare from the term after their 3rd birthday. We will ask you to complete a funding form for each term your child is eligible.
Do I need to send my child to pre-school with a snack and a drink?
No, we provide a healthy snack of a range of fruits and milk or water. Water is also available throughout the session.
Does my child need to be potty trained?
We have facilities to change nappies. We can also support your efforts in potty training your child.
Do you have outdoor play opportunities?
We have a secure outdoor playground that is accessible all year round. The children particularly enjoy taking care of our herbs, flowers and other plants in the garden.
Which hall will my child be in? are both halls the same group?
From 2021 we are all one group at Noah's Ark. We use both the small and large hall at the community centre as well as the outdoor playground area.
How do I pay fees?
Fees are invoiced half termly. Depending on if your child's fees are paid through government funding, privately paid, or shared between both and the session selections you choose the amount will vary.
Should I send my child with a lunch?
For morning sessions, no lunches are needed.
For our children that attend full-day sessions - they should bring in a packed lunch.
Will my child have a key person?
We assign every child with a 'key person'. They will be your first point of contact as the key person will hold more detailed information about your child's development.
Do you use Tapestry?
Yes, from September 2020 we use the secure system Tapestry for the children's Online Learning Journeys. You will need to complete consent forms and provide us with an email address to be able to view and upload to your child's learning journey.
Is there a set uniform at Noah's Ark?
Yes, we have Noah's Ark jumpers, cardigans and polo t-shirts that can be ordered through us via our wesbite and Facebook page. The children then wear comfortable clothes that can get a little messy with these pieces.
Do you accept childcare vouchers?
Yes. Please speak to a member of the team for any more help or info you may need regarding this.
Can my child have their dummy or comfort teddy with them at pre-school?
Yes, that is absolutely fine. We have individual disposable bags that we label with names for dummies. Teddies etc are usually fine but at the moment due to COVID-19 guidance, we are strongly discouraging soft toys and blankets.
Do staff have first aid training?
All staff regularly undertake pediatric first aid training.
What activities do you provide for the children?
We have a wide range of quality resources available and a typical session will include construction toys, small world toys, a role-play area, a comfortable reading corner, messy play, an investigative area and an arts and crafts area. The will also be a mixture of child initiated and adult led activities on offer.
Do you have a high level of staff turnover?
The majority of our team have worked together for 10+ years and have a very strong working relationship. We are very proud of the unique team that we have with us today.
My child is entitled to 3 and 4 year old funding, how do I claim?
You will need to complete a declaration form each term, we then claim for you.
Do I need to provide a spare pair of clothes for my child in case they have an toilet accident?
Usually we would ask for you to keep a spare set of clothes and underwear in your child's bag. Due to COVID-19 guidance, we are currently discouraging the children bringing in bags, so we can provide a spare change of clothes but we do ask that it is washed and brought back in as soon as possible.
How do I pay my child's fees if I am privately funding?
You can pay your invoice via bank transfer, our card machine or cash. Please ask a member of the team to assist you with this.
If there are any more questions you have, please contact us directly -
we will be happy to help.