Nurseries in West Sussex
West Sussex is a popular South East county known for its blend of coast, countryside and well-connected towns, making it a strong choice for families seeking quality early years provision. Covering postcode districts BN11–BN18, RH10–RH20 and PO18–PO22, it includes Worthing, Chichester, Crawley, Horsham, Bognor Regis, Littlehampton and surrounding villages. Families benefit from rail links to London Victoria, London Bridge and Gatwick Airport, as well as access to the A27, A24 and A23. The county offers beaches, South Downs countryside, parks, playgrounds, libraries, children’s centres and strong primary schools. Nursery and preschool demand is consistently high across commuter belts such as Crawley and Horsham, as well as coastal areas around Worthing and Chichester.
Parents in West Sussex typically pay £77 per day for childcare, which is slightly 2% higher than the UK average.
- Average Daily Cost
- £77
- Comparison
- +2% vs UK Average
- Total Capacity
- 9,834 places
Nurseries near you in West Sussex
nuuri registered
56 places
Ages 1 months to 5 years
3 / 4 inspection score
27 March 2023
nuuri registered
130 places
Ages 1 months to 5 years
3 / 4 inspection score
2 August 2023
Not registered with Nuuri
Not registered with Nuuri
Not registered with Nuuri
Frequently Asked Questions
In West Sussex, 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 West Sussex generally range from £65–£135 per day, with higher rates in Horsham, Chichester and coastal areas close to schools or commuter links.
All nurseries in West Sussex are regulated by Ofsted, with early years funding overseen by West Sussex County Council.
Ask about outdoor play areas, access to local parks or countryside, staff turnover, how funded hours are delivered and any extra charges for meals, nappies, trips or extended care.
Applying for funding
West Sussex is covered by West Sussex County Council, the local authority for this area. Visit their website to apply for early years funding.
Apply for funding on the West Sussex County Council website
