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Discover flexible and affordable childcare across our nurseries in London and West Yorkshire.

Why Ark Start?

Our nurseries are so much more than childcare. They are environments where children grow braver, find their voice, make real friends, and leave ready for what comes next.

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Explore our blog for expert insights, practical tips for families and the latest news and updates from our nurseries. 

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Help give children the best start in life. Explore our latest opportunities and build your career in early years with Ark Start.

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  1. Home
  2. Why Ark Start?
  3. Partnering with parents

Partnering with parents

We build warm relationships before your child’s first day, so you’re always part of their journey with us, every step of the way.

Getting to know your child

Home visits before nursery

Before your child starts nursery, we organise a home visit to help them settle in. It’s a chance to meet you and your child in an environment in which they already feel safe, and to get to know their likes, interests, and any toys or comforts they might bring from home.

A warm first day

On their first day, your child is welcomed by their play partner, an adult who looks after them and supports them as they settle in. They’ll help your child get familiar with the nursery environment and routines.

The team truly cares about my child. When we first started, both my child and I were struggling with separation anxiety, but the team made the transition so much easier. They’ve supported me every step of the way and helped me feel reassured that everything would be okay.

Parent Ark Start Globe

Staying connected every day

Clear communication you can rely on

We share updates and photos through our app, so you always know what activities your child has been up to. You’ll also find details like sign-in and sign-out times, meals, naps and more.

An approachable team always ready to help

You can always talk about your child at drop-off and pick-up with your key adult. There’s no need to wait for a formal meeting to discuss anything – our doors are always open.

Supporting your child’s progress together

We hold parent meetings three times a year to discuss your child’s progress, to make sure you know what they’ve learned, what’s next and how you can support them at home.

The communication from the nursery is so good. If anything important happens, it’s on the app straight away — you always know what’s happening.

Kate & Justin Parents

Moments we share as a family

Throughout the year, we organise family events like Nursery at Night, Father’s Day Breakfast and our Farm Trip, where parents and children come together to celebrate and connect, creating a sense of community that goes beyond the nursery day.

Frequently asked questions

How will I know if my child is settling in well?

Your child will be allocated a play partner who will speak to you every day about your child’s day, how well they are settling and what they have been doing.

Will I get updates in real time through the app?

Our priority is always staying present with your child, not on our devices, so while we share updates throughout the day, they won’t always be instant.

What is a play partner?

A play partner is the adult who gets to know your child best at nursery. They help your child settle in quickly, build a strong bond with them and work closely with you as their parent. It is equivalent to the ‘key person’ in the EYFS framework.