The Castle Pre-School Whitstable is now open all year round, Monday to Friday, 8.15am to 6pm. We offer morning, afternoon and full-day sessions, wraparound care and government-funded hours for children aged 2 to 5.
Session times
- Breakfast Club: 8.15am – 9am
- Morning session: 9am – 12pm
- Afternoon session: 12pm – 3pm
- Full day: 9am – 3pm
- After Pre-School Club: 3pm – 6pm
Please speak to us about current availability and patterns of attendance (for example, 3 mornings a week, or a mix of mornings and full days).
Funded hours
We accept government-funded early education hours (subject to eligibility and current government rules), including:
- Universal 15 hours funding for 2, 3 and 4 year olds
- Extended 30 hours funding for eligible working families
- 2 year old funding, including Free for 2 funding for eligible 2 year olds
- Tax-Free Childcare payments
Find out what you can claim: 15 and 30 hours childcare support for working families (Best Start in Life). We’re happy to talk you through what you’re entitled to and how to claim it.
Fees (for hours not covered by funding)
- Morning or afternoon session: £25
- Full day: £50
- Breakfast Club: £7.50 per session
- After Pre-School Club: £15.00 per session
Enhanced Provision fee
Our Enhanced Provision fee gives parents peace of mind that all consumables, including nappies, wipes and snacks, are provided for their children. It also funds a range of extra-curricular activities that support children’s development. The fee is £1 per session or £2 for a full day.
Invoicing
- We invoice monthly in advance.
- We can explain invoices at any time if something doesn’t look clear.
- Late collection fees may apply, as we have strict staff ratios to maintain.
Important to know
If your child is funded, you will still be asked to sign a “parental declaration” form every term for the Local Authority to confirm you are claiming the hours you wish to.