We offer a term-time early years provision for children aged 4+, running in correlation with Central Bedfordshire term dates.
We also offer a supplementary home education provision for children aged 5-10.
As an Ofsted registered provision, we accept both 15 and 30 hour funding codes to eligible families. We are also able able to accept payments via Tax-Free childcare accounts and workplace childcare voucher schemes. For more information about what you could be entitled to, follow the link to Best Start in Life here.
Please note: for children over the age of 5, attendance is maximised at 3 days (up to 17.5h) per week. Parents retain full responsibility for their child’s education and choose to access The Fledglings as part of their wider home education provision.
How we operate
Early years
Early years children can attend our setting for up to 4 days, or 24 hours, per week.
Tuesday - Friday, 08:45- 14:45
£52 per day
Flexi-school Friday
Fridays only as part of a Flexi-schooling agreement.
08:45 - 14:45 correlating with the Central Bedfordshire term dates.
£52 per day
Tutoring Tuesday
Home-education days for children aged 5-11 years on Tuesdays from 09:30- 14:30 as a standalone day.
£42.50 per day (bookings made for 6 week half termly blocks only)
Home education provision
Wednesday / Thursday / Friday - 08:50 - 14:40
£52 per day
Parent Support Hub
At The Fledglings, children's safety, wellbeing and family support are at the heart of everything we do. Below, you'll find trusted link, local guidance and helplines covering key areas parents often ask about.
Safeguarding Children in Bedfordshire
If you ever have a concern about a child’s safety or wellbeing, these local services can offer immediate advice and support:
Central Bedfordshire Safeguarding Children Partnership (CBSCP)
Information, guidance and help for families in Central Bedfordshire.
https://www.safeguardingbedfordshire.org.uk/about-us/central-bedfordshire-safeguarding-children-partnership
Bedford Borough Safeguarding Children Partnership (BBSCP)
For families living in Bedford Borough.
https://www.safeguardingbedfordshire.org.uk/p/about-us/bedford-borough-safeguarding-children-partnership
Local Social Care / Reporting Concerns
If you believe a child may be at risk:
-
Central Beds IFD (Integrated Front Door): 0300 300 8585
-
Out of Hours: 0300 300 8123
-
Police (Immediate Danger): 999
Online Safety & Online Grooming
Online risks are a growing concern nationwide, including here in Bedfordshire. These resources help parents understand risks and keep children safe:
NSPCC – Understanding Grooming
Clear, practical advice on what grooming is and what to look for.
https://www.nspcc.org.uk/keeping-children-safe/types-of-abuse/grooming/
Bedfordshire Police – Grooming Advice
Local support, reporting information and guidance.
https://www.beds.police.uk/advice/advice-and-information/gr/grooming/
Safeguarding Bedfordshire – Online Safety
Parent-friendly guides, videos and safety tips.
https://www.safeguardingbedfordshire.org.uk/p/safeguarding-children/online-safety
Children’s Oral Health
Good oral health starts early and is a key priority in our region.
NHS – Children’s Teeth
How to brush, when to see a dentist & tips for keeping teeth healthy.
https://www.nhs.uk/live-well/healthy-teeth-and-gums/looking-after-your-childs-teeth/
Early Years Oral Health Advice
Government-approved guidance for parents of young children.
https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/domestic-violence-and-abuse-guidance-for-parents-and-families
Domestic Abuse Support
If you or someone you know needs support, these confidential services can help:
National Domestic Abuse Helpline (24/7, confidential)
0808 2000 247
https://www.nationaldahelpline.org.uk/
Bedfordshire Domestic Abuse Partnership
Local advice, safe accommodation, and access to support.
https://bedfordshirelip.info/bedfordshire-domestic-abuse-partnership/
Mental Health & Family Support
CAMHS Bedfordshire
Support for children and young people’s emotional and mental wellbeing.
https://www.elft.nhs.uk/services/child-and-adolescent-mental-health-services-camhs
NHS – Parents & Carers Mental Health Support
https://www.nhs.uk/every-mind-matters/supporting-others/child-mental-health/
Money Worries & Local Support for Families in Bedfordshire
If you’re struggling with rising costs or worried about money, you’re not alone. Many families in Bedfordshire are feeling the pressure right now. Below are reliable local websites offering support with debt, bills, benefits, food, wellbeing and more.
Central Bedfordshire Council – Cost of Living Help
Support with foodbanks, energy costs, benefit advice and debt help.
Website: https://www.centralbedfordshire.gov.uk/info/165/support_with_the_cost_of_living
Citizens Advice Bedford & District
Free, confidential advice on money worries, debt, budgeting, employment and housing.
Website: https://bedfordcab.org.uk/services/
MoneyHelper (Government-backed)
Clear information for families on managing money, budgeting tools, benefits checkers, and debt advice.
Website: https://www.moneyhelper.org.uk/en
BLMK Suicide Prevention Hub – Financial Worries Section
Not just crisis support — this page helps families understand how financial stress affects wellbeing and where to get early help.
Website: https://suicidepreventionhubblmk.co.uk/financial-worries/
Clophill Community hub
Clophill Community Hub is operated in the grounds of Clophill Village Hall in Kiln Lane, Clophill
Bedford Foodbank
If you need emergency food support, Bedford Foodbank offers parcels and friendly guidance.
Website: https://bedford.foodbank.org.uk/
The Trussell Trust – Find a Local Foodbank
If parents live outside immediate Bedford, they can look up their nearest foodbank by postcode.
Website: https://www.trusselltrust.org/get-help/find-a-foodbank/
Warm Spaces (Local Warm Hubs for Winter)
Community spaces offering warmth, hot drinks and support.
Website: https://www.centralbedfordshire.gov.uk/info/229/cost_of_living_support/1693/warm_spaces
Energy Support & Grants
Guidance on support with energy bills, cold weather payments and energy-saving grants.
Website: https://www.gov.uk/cost-of-living
We’re Here to Help
If you ever need advice, reassurance or support, please speak to a member of The Fledglings team.
We will always listen, support and guide you to the right service.
