When to Apply for Nursery in the UK to Get Your First Choice

One of the most common questions parents ask is: "When should I apply for nursery?" The answer isn't always straightforward because it depends on your circumstances, your child's age, and where you live. But here's what we know for sure: applying too late could mean missing out on your first choice nursery.

One of the most common questions parents ask is: "When should I apply for nursery?" The answer isn't always straightforward because it depends on your circumstances, your child's age, and where you live. But here's what we know for sure: applying too late could mean missing out on your first choice nursery.

I started Nuuri after struggling through the many uncertainties and hurdles of getting my own children into nursery, so trust me: I know what you’re going through!

In this guide, I'll walk you through the best timing for applying for nursery, what to expect from the application process, and how to maximise your chances of getting your child into the nursery you want.

Why Timing Matters

Before we dive into the specifics, let's talk about why timing is so important. Nursery places are competitive. In many areas of the UK, popular nurseries have waiting lists that can stretch months ahead. Some nurseries operate on a first-come, first-served basis, which means the earlier you apply, the better your chances of securing a place.

Additionally, many nurseries have intake periods that correspond with the academic year or term dates. If you miss these intake windows, you might have to wait several months for the next available space, even if the nursery has capacity.

The Ideal Timeline: When to Apply for Nursery

While some nurseries have spaces available at shorter notice, many popular nurseries recommend applying 12–18 months in advance, particularly in high-demand areas, so I’ve given you a walkthrough of the best case scenario here.

12-18 Months Before Your Desired Start Date

This is the sweet spot for applying for nursery. If you know you'll need childcare in 18 months, this is when you should start thinking about how to choose the right nursery, and begin applying to locations that you like.

Why so early? Several reasons. First, popular nurseries in your area might already have waiting lists. Getting on that list early increases your chances of securing a place before it fills up completely. Second, this gives you time to visit multiple nurseries to ask the right questions of staff, compare options, and make an informed decision without feeling rushed.

During this phase, you should:

• Research nurseries in your area using tools like Nuuri, which lets you read parent reviews, check inspection ratings, and compare facilities
• Make a shortlist of your top three to five nurseries
• Visit each one and ask questions about their curriculum, staff-to-child ratios, and availability
• Ask about their application process and waiting list status
• Register your interest or join waiting lists if required

9-12 Months Before Your Desired Start Date

By this point, you should have narrowed down your choices and be ready to submit formal applications. This is when many nurseries have their main intake periods, so it's a good time to get your applications in.

During this phase:

• Submit applications to your top choices
• Pay any registration fees (if required)
• Ask about settling-in sessions and when they might start
• Confirm your child's start date in writing
• Ask about any additional information or documentation they need

6-9 Months Before Your Desired Start Date

If you haven't applied yet, don't panic. You can still apply during this window, though your options might be more limited if popular nurseries are already full. Some nurseries might put you on a waiting list if they don't have immediate availability.

During this phase:

• Follow up with nurseries you've applied to
• Ask about your position on any waiting lists
• If a nursery you wanted is full, ask when they expect the next space to become available
• Consider having backup options ready

3-6 Months Before Your Desired Start Date

This is getting close to your start date. If you haven't secured a place by now, you should be actively chasing nurseries and considering alternative options. Some nurseries might still have spaces available, particularly if they have higher staff-to-child ratios or if they're less popular in your area.

During this phase:

• Prepare your child for the transition to nursery
• Start settling-in sessions if your chosen nursery offers them
• Get your child's documents ready (birth certificate, proof of address, emergency contact details, etc.)
• Discuss any specific needs or concerns with the nursery

Different Rules for England, Scotland, and Wales

It's important to note that nursery funding and entitlements differ across the UK, which can affect when you need to apply.

England

In England, all children are entitled to 15 hours of free early education per week from the term after they turn 3. Some families also qualify for an additional 15 hours (30 hours total) if they meet certain criteria. Additionally, eligible 2-year-olds can receive 15 hours of free childcare.

This means many parents plan to start their child at nursery around age 3 to take advantage of government funding for childcare in England. If this is your plan, you should apply around 12-18 months before your child turns 3.

Scotland

In Scotland, children are entitled to 1,140 hours of funded early learning and childcare per year from the term after they turn three. Some councils also offer funded hours for eligible two-year-olds.

The application process in Scotland can vary by local authority, so it's worth contacting your council's education department to find out the specific timelines and deadlines for your area.

Wales

In Wales, children are entitled to at least 10 hours of funded early education per week from the term after they turn three. Many working families may also be eligible for up to 30 hours per week through the Childcare Offer for Wales, which combines early education and childcare.

Like Scotland, the application process can vary by local authority in Wales, so check with your local council for specific deadlines.

Factors That Affect When You Should Apply to Nursery

Just as family life looks different for everyone, the actual timeline of applying for childcare differs from child to child, parent to parent.

Your Return to Work Date

If you're planning to return to work on a specific date, work backwards from that date to figure out when your child needs to start nursery. Then apply 12-18 months before that date.

Your Child's Age

If you're planning to start your child at nursery before age 3, you'll need to apply earlier because there are fewer funded hours available. If you're planning to start at age 3 to take advantage of government funding, you can apply closer to their third birthday, though earlier is still better.

Your Location

Demand for nursery places varies significantly depending on where you live. In urban areas with high populations, nurseries fill up quickly. In rural areas, there might be more availability. Research nurseries in your specific area to understand the local demand.

The Nursery's Intake Periods

Some nurseries have fixed intake periods (e.g., September, January, April), while others accept children throughout the year. Check with individual nurseries to understand their admissions process.

Your Child's Specific Needs

If your child has additional needs or requires specific support, you might need to apply earlier to give the nursery time to arrange appropriate staffing and resources.

How to Maximise Your Chances of Getting Your First Choice Nursery

As we all know, demand for the best nurseries is high! Here are a few tips I’ve picked up on how to try to maximise your shot of securing the place top of your list.

Apply Early

We can't stress this enough. Apply as early as possible. Even if you think you have plenty of time, applying early gives you the best chance of securing a place.

Have Backup Options

Don't put all your eggs in one basket. Have at least two or three nurseries you'd be happy with. This way, if your first choice is full, you have alternatives ready.

Build a Relationship with the Nursery

Visit in person, ask questions of the nursery nurses and staff, and show genuine interest. Nurseries are more likely to prioritise applications from parents who've engaged with them and shown they're serious about choosing their nursery.

Understand the Waiting List

Ask the nursery how their waiting list works. Are they first-come, first-served? Do they prioritise siblings? Do they have any other criteria? Understanding this helps you know where you stand. Some nurseries operate on a first-come, first-served basis, while others prioritise things like other siblings in attendance or start dates.

Follow Up

Don't just submit an application and wait. Follow up with the nursery after a few weeks to confirm they've received it and ask about your position on any waiting lists.

Use Online Tools

Use Nuuri to research nurseries in your area, read parent reviews, and check inspection ratings. This helps you make informed decisions and identify the best nurseries in your area.

What Happens After You Apply?

Once you've submitted your application, the nursery will review it and get back to you. This might take a few weeks. They'll either offer you a place, put you on a waiting list, or let you know they don't have availability.

If you're offered a place, you'll usually need to confirm acceptance and pay a deposit to secure it. If you're on a waiting list, the nursery will contact you if a space becomes available.

Last Minute Nursery Applications

Life doesn't always go to plan. Maybe you've had a change in circumstances and suddenly need nursery sooner than expected, or perhaps you've just moved to a new area. If you're applying last minute, here's what to do:

• Contact nurseries immediately to ask about availability
• Be flexible about start dates and hours
• Consider nurseries that are less popular or have higher capacity
• Ask about waiting lists and when spaces might become available
• Have conversations with your employer about flexible working while you wait for a place

Common Mistakes to Avoid

After a few years in this business, I’ve picked up on a few things that are best avoided to make the nursery application process as smooth as possible.

Applying Too Late

The biggest mistake parents make is waiting too long to apply. By the time they realise they need nursery, all the good places are full.

Only Applying to One Nursery

If your first choice is full, you'll be stuck. Always have backup options.

Not Reading Reviews

Use Nuuri to read what other parents say about nurseries. This gives you valuable insights into the quality of care and whether it's right for your family.

Ignoring Inspection Ratings

While Ofsted or Care Inspectorate (depending on where you live) ratings aren't everything, they're a useful indicator of quality. Check the ratings and read the full reports to understand what inspectors found.

Not Asking Questions

When you visit a nursery, ask lots of questions. Find out about their curriculum, staff qualifications, how they handle behaviour, how they communicate with parents, and anything else that matters to you.

Getting Your First Choice

Securing a place at your first choice nursery is possible if you plan ahead and apply early. Start your research 12-18 months before you need childcare, apply to multiple nurseries, and stay engaged with the process. Use tools like Nuuri to research nurseries thoroughly, read parent reviews, and make informed decisions.

Remember, the best nursery for your child is one where they're safe, happy, and supported. Take your time to find the right fit, and don't settle for anything less.

Ready to get started on finding the perfect nursery? Use Nuuri to find quality nurseries, read reviews, and get a head start on applications. Good luck!

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