Early years and childcare school-based nursery provision

April 2026 - Phase 3 coming soon.

Support and guidance for Essex schools and settings

For Essex and DfE's guidance and support on establishing school-based nursery provision, use the following online information and downloads

These guides detail what you need to consider if you wish to open or expand nursery provision at your school, including:

  • Delivery Models
  • Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) statutory framework (including space and welfare requirements).
  • DfE technical standards for buildings and grounds.
  • Ofsted or other school premises legislation
  • Making significant changes to your school