Nurseries in Chelmsford
Chelmsford is a thriving Essex city known for its excellent schools, strong commuter links and modern family amenities. Covering postcode districts CM1, CM2 and CM3, it includes Chelmsford City Centre, Springfield, Broomfield, Writtle and Great Baddow. Families benefit from fast trains to London Liverpool Street, as well as easy access to the A12, A130 and A414. Popular family destinations include Hylands Park, Oaklands Park, Central Park, leisure centres, playgrounds and riverside paths. Chelmsford’s mix of new housing developments, established neighbourhoods and strong school catchments make it highly attractive to families, leading to consistent demand for nursery places across the city.
Parents in Chelmsford typically pay £85 per day for childcare, which is slightly 13% higher than the UK average.
- Average Daily Cost
- £85
- Comparison
- +13% vs UK Average
- Total Capacity
- 7,596 places
Nurseries near you in Chelmsford
Frequently Asked Questions
In Chelmsford, private nurseries typically accept children from around 3 months old. School and council nurseries often start places from age 2 or 3. Funded early education begins the term after a child’s 3rd birthday, with some 2-year-olds eligible earlier depending on circumstances or work status.
All 3 and 4-year-olds in England can receive 15 funded hours per week, with many working families eligible for 30 hours. Some 2-year-olds are also eligible for funded places, and working parents of children from 9 months old can access funded childcare. Families may also benefit from Tax-Free Childcare, which adds a 20 percent top-up.
Nursery fees in Chelmsford typically range from £70–£135 per day, with Springfield and Great Baddow often at the higher end due to high demand and popular school catchments.
All nurseries in Chelmsford are regulated by Ofsted, with early years funding overseen by Essex County Council.
Ask about outdoor space, local outings, the learning approach, funded hours availability and any extra fees for meals, nappies or extended care.
Applying for funding
Chelmsford is covered by Essex County Council, the local authority for this area. Visit their website to apply for early years funding.
Apply for funding on the Essex County Council website
