Information is sent to families directly from Herts County Council for Primary Admissions. This explains the admission process in detail, including the admission criteria. The admission process takes place in the academic year prior to the child starting Nursery/Reception Class.

Acorn Class-2 Year Old Admissions

At Parkside we are thrilled to now be able to offer places in our EYFS unit for 2 Year Olds. We offer a dedicated teaching space, taught by highly qualified Early Years Professionals. Our aim is to support our families with high quality early years provision.

We are pleased to confirm that we are able to accept 15 hour and 30-hour codes as well as offering a wraparound service at an additional cost.

Every entitled 2 year old can have up to 15 hours free early years education in the term following their 2nd birthday.

What to expect in Acorn Class:

• Children are greeted by their keyperson and enjoy a short welcome session each morning.
• They follow a bespoke curriculum designed for their age and level of development. They have access to their own dedicated space and access to a large outdoor shared EYFS garden and indoor classrooms.
• Routines are quickly learned, and strong attachments are formed through our keyperson approach.

Session times and flexibility:

• Fee paying & Funded places: Open Monday to Friday, 8:30 am – 3.15 pm.
• 15 hours is spread over 5 mornings
• Fee paying places: £14 per session (8:30 am – 11:40 am / 3.15 pm). This is charged a term in advance.
• Places are limited – call us at 0208 387 3000 for details.

Children move from Acorn Class to Fir Class in the term after their 3rd birthday, with no need to reapply. Starting in the Acorn Class gives your child a strong start to their Parkside learning journey.

30-Hour Places (from September 2026)

We are also offering a limited number of 30-hour funded places for 2-year-olds:

• Monday to Friday, 8:30 am – 3.15 pm.

To check eligibility and apply for 30-hour funded places, visit:

• Hertfordshire Free Early Education
• Check eligibility on GOV.UK

Childcare Support for Families

Families receiving additional government support, including Universal Credit or other income-related benefits are entitled to 570 hours of childcare support per year (equivalent to 15 hours per week across 38 weeks of term time).

Check you’re eligible for free childcare if you’re working – GOV.UK (www.gov.uk)

www.hertfordshire.gov.uk/freeearlyeducation

You can download an application below or collect one from the school office or request one via email at admin@parkside.herts.sch.uk

Fir Class-Nursery Admissions

Parkside Community School is responsible for managing its own Nursery admissions. Parkside Nursery offers 15 and 30 hour funded childcare.

All children are entitled to 15 hours free nursery education the school term after their 3rd birthday. Our part time government funded provision is available during school term times. It is expected that children will attend for 5 morning sessions.

The Nursery also offers places for working parents who are eligible for 30 hours free childcare. It is expected that children will attend for 5 sessions Mon -Fri 8.30 am -3.15 pm.

Children can start nursery at Parkside the term after they are three years old.

When will my child start at nursery?

Children can start nursery at Parkside the term after they are three years old.

How do I apply?

You should apply for a nursery place within the time frames set out in the table below.

Places will be offered in accordance with our Nursery Admissions Policy.

You can download an application below or collect one from the school office or request one via email at admin@parkside.herts.sch.uk