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POLICY INFORMATION

This policy outlines the arrangements for staff members who wish to have their own children attend the nursery where they work. It aims to ensure that both the needs of the child and the professional responsibilities of the staff member are met effectively, maintaining high standards of care and education across the setting.

We recognise that it can be convenient and reassuring for staff members to have their own children attend the nursery where they are employed. However, it is essential that this arrangement supports both the wellbeing of the child and the staff member’s ability to carry out their role effectively. The needs of all children in the setting must remain our primary focus.

Guidelines:

1. Approval of Arrangements

• Staff members who wish to have their child attend the nursery must discuss and agree this arrangement in advance with the Manager.
• Each request will be considered on an individual basis, taking into account factors such as room availability, staffing ratios, and the age and needs of the child.
• Where a preschool has provision for children under two, a request for a staff member’s baby to attend that setting will be considered separately, taking into account the limited number of places available, the operational and financial viability of the provision, and any applicable staff discount; where appropriate, an alternative place at a nearby Paint Pots nursery will also be considered.
• Staff members who wish to have their child attend the nursery or preschool and are eligible for funding, must claim and provide their code to the manager and re-submit every 3 months. If eligible and the staff member does not claim, they may be subject to payment of full fees.

1. Professional Boundaries

• While at work, staff members are expected to maintain their professional role and responsibilities.
• Staff will be expected to work in a different room from their child to support professional boundaries and enable their child to develop independence.
• The child will be treated in the same way as all other children in the nursery, and the staff member will not be responsible for their child’s direct care during working hours unless specifically arranged (for example, during transition periods or emergencies).

1. Child’s Wellbeing

• The child’s ability to settle and thrive within the setting will be regularly reviewed.
• If it becomes clear that the arrangement is not in the best interest of the child, for example, if the child is finding it difficult to separate from their parent or to engage comfortably in the nursery environment, alternative arrangements will be discussed.

1. Impact on Staff Role

• Staff must be able to focus fully on their duties. If it becomes apparent that caring for or responding to their child during work hours is affecting their ability to perform their role effectively, the arrangement will need to be reconsidered.