Joining Bright Horizons: Your Nursery Journey
From your first visit to their first day
From your first visit to their first day
Whether you're just beginning your nursery search or preparing for your child's first day with us, we're here to support you every step of the way.
From exploring our nurseries and meeting our team, to settling-in and building those first Key relationships, joining Bright Horizons is a journey we'll take together. Along the way, we'll answer your questions, share helpful guidance, and help your child feel safe, confident and excited about what's to come.
Before long, you'll be waving them off to a day of painting masterpieces, hunting for minibeasts, making new friends over a shared love for books, and discovering just how fun life at one of our nurseries is.
Book a Personal Tour
There's no better way to imagine your child’s day at nursery than to experience it for yourself.
A personal tour gives you a chance to:
- Explore the spaces your child could learn, play and grow
- Meet our practitioners and nursery team
- Learn about our curriculum, routines, mealtimes, and overall approach to childcare.
- Ask questions and discuss your child's individual needs
Join Our Next Open Day
Busy during the week? Join us at one of our Open Days.
Explore our nursery, meet the team, and learn more about fees, funding, mealtimes and daily life, all at your own pace.
Whether you're just starting your childcare search or narrowing down your options, an Open Day can help you picture what your child's nursery journey could look like.
Registering for Nursery and Securing Your Place
Ready to take the next step? Registering is simple, and we'll guide you through the process from your first application to your child's start date.
- Completing your registration
- Paying your registration fee
- Waitlisted? Don't worry!
- Confirming your place
Fees and Funding
Every family's childcare journey is different, and understanding funding options shouldn't be another thing to worry about. That's why we've brought together helpful guidance on the schemes that may be available to you, including funded childcare hours, Tax-Free Childcare and other government-backed support.
Settling-in at Nursery, Together
Starting nursery is a big step, for you and your child.
Our settling-in sessions help your child build confidence, explore their new environment and get to know our team before their first full day.
We also know that these sessions are just as important for parents. You'll have the opportunity to share your child's routines, interests and little quirks, ask questions, and work with us to create a settling-in experience that is tailored to your family.
My Little Box of Big Memories
From first friendships to treasured creations, nursery is full of moments you'll want to remember.
Before your child starts nursery, you'll receive our My Little Box of Big Memories welcome box, designed to help you capture special moments, milestones and memories throughout their early years journey.
Frequently Asked Questions
Registering your child for nursery is simple. Once you've found your preferred Bright Horizons nursery, you can complete a registration form, tell us your preferred start date and attendance pattern, and submit your details for review. A member of the nursery team will then discuss availability and the next steps with you. Bright Horizons also encourages families to visit their chosen nursery before registering so they can meet the team and explore the environment.
It is worth applying as early as you can, particularly if you have a preferred nursery, start date or attendance pattern. Availability varies, so registering early gives the nursery team time to discuss your requirements and next steps. Families are encouraged to begin exploring options and arranging visits as soon as they start thinking about childcare, helping them secure the nursery place that best suits their needs.
No, registering does not automatically guarantee a nursery place. Once your registration has been submitted, the nursery will review your requested start date, sessions and availability before confirming whether a place can be offered. If a place is not immediately available, the nursery team will discuss the options with you and keep you informed about future availability.
There is no set waiting list length, as availability varies between nurseries and can change throughout the year. Factors such as your preferred start date, your child's age and the days you require can all affect availability. The best way to understand current availability is to speak directly with your chosen nursery, as the team can provide the most up-to-date information and discuss alternative options where appropriate.
After you register, your chosen nursery will review your requirements and contact you to discuss availability and the next steps. Once a place is confirmed, the team will support you through the joining process, helping you prepare for your child's start date and sharing important information about nursery life. You'll also have opportunities to visit the nursery, meet the team and begin planning your child's settling-in journey.
Every child and family is different, so there is no single right age to start nursery. Bright Horizons welcomes children from as young as three months through to preschool age, and the best time will depend on your family's circumstances, childcare needs and personal preferences. If you're unsure, visiting a nursery and speaking with the team can help you decide when your child may be ready to begin their nursery journey.
