Types of Preschools: A Complete Guide for Parents in the UK

Choosing the right preschool for your little one can feel like navigating a jungle—and that's before you even step foot inside one!

With so many different types of preschools available today, it's no wonder parents feel overwhelmed when making this crucial decision.

From traditional nurseries to forest schools, each approach offers unique benefits that could shape your child's early learning journey.

Let's explore the various preschool options available, helping you find the perfect fit for your family's needs and values.

What Are the Main Types of Preschools Available?

Understanding the landscape of early years education starts with recognising that not all preschools are created equal.

Each type follows different philosophies, teaching methods, and approaches to child development.

Here's a breakdown of the most common types of preschools you'll encounter:

Traditional Nursery Schools

Traditional nurseries form the backbone of early years education across the UK.

These settings typically follow the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) framework, focusing on structured learning through play.

Key characteristics include:

• Structured daily routines with dedicated time for various activities
• Mixed-age groups allowing younger children to learn from older peers
• Qualified practitioners trained in early childhood development
• Indoor and outdoor learning environments

Most traditional nurseries cater to children from birth to five years old, offering flexible sessions to accommodate working parents.

Montessori Preschools

The Montessori method, developed by Dr Maria Montessori, emphasises child-led learning and independence.

Children choose their own activities from a prescribed range of options, working at their own pace.

What makes Montessori unique:

• Mixed-age classrooms (typically spanning three years)
• Self-directed activities with minimal adult intervention
• Specially designed learning materials that teach specific concepts
• Emphasis on practical life skills like cooking and cleaning

This approach works brilliantly for children who thrive with structure but prefer choosing their own path.

Waldorf/Steiner Schools

Waldorf education focuses on imagination, creativity, and holistic development.

Founded by Rudolf Steiner, this approach delays formal academics until children are developmentally ready.

Core principles include:

• Play-based learning until age seven
• Natural materials and minimal use of technology
• Rhythm and routine with seasonal celebrations
• Arts and crafts integration in daily activities

Waldorf schools create a gentle, nurturing environment that honours childhood as a precious phase of development.

Forest Schools and Nature-Based Preschools

Forest schools have gained tremendous popularity as parents recognise the benefits of outdoor learning.

Children spend most or all of their time outdoors, regardless of weather conditions.

Benefits of nature-based education:

• Physical development through climbing, balancing, and exploring
• Risk assessment skills as children navigate natural environments
• Environmental awareness and connection to nature
• Resilience building through weather exposure and outdoor challenges

These programmes suit active children who love exploring and getting muddy!

Reggio Emilia Approach Schools

This Italian-inspired philosophy views children as capable researchers and collaborators.

The environment acts as the "third teacher," alongside educators and peers.

Distinctive features:

• Project-based learning driven by children's interests
• Documentation of learning through photos and displays
• Community involvement in educational processes
• Emphasis on creativity and multiple forms of expression

Children develop critical thinking skills whilst pursuing topics that genuinely fascinate them.

Religious and Faith-Based Preschools

Many preschools incorporate religious teachings alongside standard early years curriculum.

These settings often appeal to families seeking to reinforce their faith values.

Common options include:

• Church of England nurseries with Christian values integration
• Islamic preschools teaching Arabic and Islamic principles
• Jewish nurseries incorporating Hebrew and Jewish traditions
• Multi-faith settings celebrating diverse religious backgrounds

These environments provide spiritual foundation alongside academic and social development.

Academic vs Play-Based Preschool Programmes

One of the biggest decisions you'll face is choosing between academic-focused and play-based approaches.

Academic-Focused Programmes

These preschools emphasise early literacy, numeracy, and structured learning activities.

Children might learn to read, write, and perform basic maths before starting reception.

Advantages:

• School readiness preparation
• Structured learning environment
• Clear progress milestones

Potential drawbacks:

• Less creative freedom
• Possible pressure on young children
• Limited play time

Play-Based Learning Programmes

Play-based settings believe children learn best through exploration, imagination, and unstructured activities.

Formal academics take a backseat to social, emotional, and creative development.

Benefits include:

• Natural learning through curiosity
• Social skill development through group play
• Creativity and imagination flourishing
• Stress-free environment

Most experts agree that play-based learning creates stronger foundations for later academic success.

Preschool Settings: Day Nurseries vs Sessional Groups

Full-Day Nurseries

Full-day nurseries cater to working parents, offering care from early morning until early evening.

These settings provide comprehensive childcare alongside educational activities.

Typical features:

• Long opening hours (often 7:30am-6pm)
• Flexible booking options
• Meals and snacks provided
• Age-appropriate rooms for different developmental stages

Sessional Preschools and Playgroups

Sessional groups typically run for 2-4 hours, focusing purely on educational and social activities.

Parents usually stay involved through volunteering or fundraising activities.

Characteristics:

• Shorter sessions (morning or afternoon)
• Term-time only operation
• Parent involvement encouraged
• Community-focused atmosphere

Choosing the Right Type of Preschool for Your Child

Selecting the perfect preschool requires honest assessment of your child's personality, needs, and your family circumstances.

Consider Your Child's Temperament

Outgoing children might thrive in larger, more diverse settings with lots of social interaction.

Sensitive children often prefer smaller, gentler environments with consistent routines.

Active children need programmes with ample outdoor time and physical challenges.

Evaluate Your Practical Needs

Working parents typically need full-day provision with extended hours.

Part-time workers might prefer flexible sessional arrangements.

Stay-at-home parents could choose based purely on educational philosophy rather than convenience.

Match Educational Philosophy

Consider whether you prefer:

• Structured learning with clear outcomes
• Child-led exploration with minimal direction
• Balanced approach combining both elements

Visit potential settings during operating hours to observe how philosophies translate into practice.

How Little Mowgli Nursery Supports Families in Their Preschool Journey

At Little Mowgli Nursery in Leyland, families discover a unique blend of approaches that captures the best elements from various preschool types.

Our nature-inspired setting combines the structure of traditional nurseries with the wonder of outdoor learning.

The Tigers and Giraffes rooms provide age-appropriate environments where children develop at their own pace, following EYFS guidelines whilst embracing their natural curiosity.

What sets Little Mowgli apart is our commitment to treating every child as an individual explorer.

We understand that some children thrive with gentle guidance whilst others need space to lead their own discoveries.

Our play-based curriculum incorporates hands-on experiences that build confidence and independence—qualities that serve children well regardless of which primary school they later attend.

The outdoor area encourages the same resilience and environmental connection found in forest schools, whilst our community-focused approach ensures strong relationships between families, children, and practitioners.

This combination creates a "home-from-home" atmosphere that eases the transition from family care to formal education.

Conclusion

Choosing among the different types of preschools doesn't have to feel overwhelming once you understand your options.

Whether you're drawn to traditional nurseries, alternative pedagogies, or nature-based approaches, the right setting will align with your child's temperament and your family's values.

Remember that the best preschool is one where your child feels safe, valued, and excited to learn.

Take time to visit multiple settings, ask questions, and trust your instincts about where your little adventurer will flourish.

The foundation you choose now will support your child's lifelong love of learning, so invest the time to explore all the types of preschools available in your area.

Ready to find the perfect preschool for your little explorer?

Contact Little Mowgli Nursery today to discover how our nurturing, adventure-filled environment could be the ideal starting point for your child's educational journey.

‍

Frequently Asked Questions About Types of Preschools

Q: What's the difference between a nursery and a preschool? 

The terms are often used interchangeably in the UK. Nurseries typically offer full-day care for working parents, while preschools may focus more on educational preparation for primary school with shorter sessions.

Q: At what age should my child start preschool? 

Most children benefit from starting preschool between ages 2-3 years. However, this depends on your child's development, social readiness, and family circumstances. Some children thrive starting earlier or later.

Q: How do I know if my child is ready for preschool? 

Look for signs like basic communication skills, some independence with toileting, ability to separate from parents for short periods, and interest in playing with other children.

Q: What should I look for during a preschool visit? 

Observe staff interactions with children, cleanliness and safety of facilities, variety of activities available, outdoor spaces, and overall atmosphere. Trust your instincts about whether your child would be happy there.

Q: How much does preschool cost in the UK? 

Costs vary significantly by location and type. All 3-4 year olds receive 15 hours of free early education weekly. Working parents may qualify for 30 hours. Additional hours typically cost £3-8 per hour depending on your area.

‍