Nurseries in Poole
Poole is a thriving coastal town known for its harbour, beaches and strong family neighbourhoods. With easy access into Bournemouth and wider Dorset, Poole has strong year-round demand for nursery spaces, particularly around Sandbanks, Canford Heath, Broadstone and central commuter areas.
Market insights for Poole
Parents in Poole typically pay £74 per day for childcare, which is slightly 1% lower than the UK average of £75 per day. This pricing reflects local market conditions, including operational costs, demand levels, and regional economic factors that influence childcare provision. With 1,795 childcare places available across Poole, families have a range of options to consider. Understanding these market insights helps parents make informed decisions about childcare costs and availability in Poole.
- Average daily cost
- £74
- Comparison
- -1% vs UK average
- Total capacity
- 1,795 places
Nurseries near you in Poole
- Bright Horizons Talbot Woods Day Nursery and Nursery School
- Bright Horizons Poole Montessori Day Nursery
- Dingley's Promise Poole
- Sunbeams Day Care
- Lollipops Preschool
- Talbot View PreSchool
- Little People Pre-School
- Cuddles Day Nursery Parkstone
- Tops Day Nurseries - Parkstone
- Puss 'n' Boots Day Nursery
- All Saints Nursery
- Rock a Tots UK Ltd
- St John's Church Pre-School Nursery
- Ashley Cross Montessori
- The Old School House Nursery And Pre School
- Three Gables Day Nursery & Pre-School Ashley Cross
- Muddy Boots Nursery School Parkstone
- Little Stars Education Limited
- Rainbow Day Nursery School Ltd
- Tops Day Nursery
- Little Beans Day Care (Garland) Limited
- First Steps Day Nursery
- Muddy Boots Nursery School
- Little Angels Nursery
- Bayside View Preschool
- Muddy Boots Nursery School
- St. Gabriel's Pre-School
- Ladybirds Playschool LTD
- Upton Methodist Church Pre-School
- Bizzybeez Childcare Ltd
Frequently asked questions
Poole nurseries usually accept children from around 3 months old, with school-run nurseries offering places from age 2 or 3. Funded early education starts the term after a child turns 3, with some 2 year olds eligible earlier depending on circumstances.
All 3 and 4 year olds receive 15 funded hours a week, with many working families eligible for 30 hours. Some 2 year olds qualify based on family circumstances, and eligible working parents of children from 9 months old may access funded childcare.
Poole nursery fees typically range from £65–£140 per day, with higher rates in coastal and high-demand areas such as Sandbanks and Lilliput.
All Poole nurseries are regulated by Ofsted, with funding overseen by BCP Council.
Ask about outdoor areas, availability across the week, funded hour options, staff ratios and any additional charges.
Applying for funding
Poole is covered by Dorset Council, the local authority for this area. Search their website for early years funding to apply.
Visit the Dorset Council websiteThe UK's nursery search platform, built for modern parents
Find events near you
Discover open days, taster sessions and events at nurseries near you. Find the right time to visit and see a setting in action before you decide.
Work out what you'll pay
Childcare costs and government funding can be confusing. Our calculator cuts through it and shows you what to expect each month.
Get guidance from childcare experts
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