As we approach the end of the year, it’s a good time to take a step back and review your finances. With the inevitable rise in staffing costs due next April — including increases to the National Living Wage and pensions — now is the time to start thinking about your budgets and, importantly, your fees. Raising fees is one of the trickiest parts of running a childcare business. You know you need to keep your setting sustainable (which is hard when the vast majority of your inc

Running an early years setting whether a nursery, preschool, or childminding business, requires more than just a passion for children’s learning and development. Behind the scenes, effective planning is crucial for long term sustainability and growth. A well-structured business plan is not just a document for investors or regulators; it’s a practical tool that guides decision-making, helps manage resources, and ensures long-term success. A person is focused on financial calcu

If you're running a charity-managed early years education setting, completing your annual report  for the Charity Commission can feel like just another admin task on an already packed to-do list. But it’s more than just a legal requirement — it’s your chance to tell your story , showcase your impact, and prove that your organisation is well-run and sustainable. In this short blog, I’ll walk you through what’s required, who should be involved, and how to complete your annual r

Running an early years childcare setting is one of the most rewarding—and challenging—jobs out there. You nurture young minds, provide a safe and engaging environment, and support families in their daily lives. But behind the scenes, you're also running a business. And like any business, consistent cash flow is critical. One of the biggest threats to your financial health? Unpaid fees. The Hidden Costs of Bad Debt Letting unpaid fees pile up isn’t just a paperwork headache. I