Nurseries in Gateshead
Gateshead is a major town and metropolitan borough on the south bank of the River Tyne, known for its cultural landmarks such as the Angel of the North, Sage Gateshead and the Baltic Centre for Contemporary Art. The borough covers areas including Low Fell, Whickham, Birtley, Felling, Blaydon, Teams and Swalwell. With strong transport links to Newcastle, good schools, parks and growing residential communities, Gateshead offers a wide range of nursery, preschool and early years provision. Demand for childcare is particularly high in Low Fell, Whickham, Birtley and areas close to Metro stations and employment hubs.
Parents in Gateshead typically pay £83 per day for childcare, which is slightly 11% higher than the UK average.
- Average Daily Cost
- £83
- Comparison
- +11% vs UK Average
- Total Capacity
- 2,935 places
Frequently Asked Questions
In Gateshead, private nurseries typically accept children from around 3 months old, depending on staffing and availability. School and council nurseries usually offer places from age 2 or 3. Funded early education begins the term after your child turns 3, with some 2 year olds eligible earlier depending on circumstances or work status.
Across England all 3 and 4 year olds receive 15 funded hours per week with many working families eligible for up to 30 hours. Some 2 year olds also qualify based on household circumstances, and eligible working parents of children from 9 months old may access funded childcare. Tax Free Childcare provides a 20 percent government top up to help with nursery costs.
Nursery fees in Gateshead generally range from £50–£100 per day, with higher rates in Low Fell, Whickham and central commuter areas. Prices vary based on age group, opening hours and availability.
All nurseries and early years settings in Gateshead are regulated by Ofsted, with early years funding administered by Gateshead Council.
Ask about outdoor space, access to parks, staff turnover, how funded hours are delivered, meal provision, and any extra charges for extended care, nappies or outings.
Applying for funding
Gateshead is covered by Gateshead Council, the local authority for this area. Visit their website to apply for early years funding.
Apply for funding on the Gateshead Council website

