Best Nurseries in Essex
7 nurseries in Essex — 1 Outstanding, 3 Good
Ofsted ratings in Essex
7
Total nurseries
1
Outstanding
3
Good
3
Not yet rated
Funded 15 & 30 hours childcare in Essex
In England, working families can get 15 hours of funded childcare a week from 9 months old, rising to 30 hours from September 2025, during term time (38 weeks a year). All 3–4-year-olds get at least 15 universal funded hours regardless of parents' work status, and some 2-year-olds qualify through additional support schemes.
Funded hours are used at participating nurseries and childminders — each profile on this page shows whether a setting has funded 2-year-old and 3–4-year-old places registered. Check eligibility and apply via GOV.UK childcare eligibility.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many nurseries are in Essex?
Essex has 7 Ofsted-registered nurseries, of which 1 are rated Outstanding and 3 are rated Good.
What percentage of nurseries in Essex are rated Outstanding or Good?
57% of nurseries in Essex are rated Outstanding or Good by Ofsted.
How do I find the best nursery in Essex?
This page lists all 7 nurseries in Essex sorted by Ofsted grade. Click any nursery to see its full profile including inspection details, funded places, and parent reviews.