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Decide whether to open a school-based nursery: how-to and guidance

Is opening a school-based nursery (SBN) a good option for your school? Find out what you need to consider and learn about the different delivery models you can choose from.

Last reviewed on 19 March 2026See updates
School types: All•School phases: All•Ref: 51881
Contents
  1. Is there a need for additional childcare places in your area?
  2. Consider the pros and cons of opening an SBN
  3. Do you have suitable space?
  4. Download our space and facilities checklist
  5. Do you have suitable facilities?
  6. Can you afford to make any changes you need?
  7. Understand different nursery delivery models
  8. What next?

This article is for you if you’re in the early stages of deciding whether a school-based nursery (SBN) will work for your school. If you’ve already decided to open one, have a look at our step-by-step guide to help you through the process.

Is there a need for additional childcare places in your area?

Before you decide to open an SBN, you should be confident that there is (or will be) a need for additional early education places in your local area.

Local authorities must produce regular childcare sufficiency assessments, which will help you assess the need for places. Many LAs publish these online, but you may need to contact the LA directly.

Look at nurseries in your local area too – if they have long waiting lists or are booked up months in advance, it’s likely that there’s a need for more childcare in your area.

There can