Don't miss Nursery Chains Autumn 2015

While the Government’s 30-hour free childcare policy is clearly a winner for parents of three- and four-year-olds, many nurseries have told Nursery World of their conflicted feelings about the doubling of the entitlement.

But what about nursery groups – does owning and managing multiple settings make it a different prospect?

In our annual Nursery Chains supplement we talk to some of those groups that are embracing the challenge by taking part in a trial of the scheme from next September.

Elsewhere, we take a look at groups that are choosing to grow through franchising their brands, allowing local owners to run nurseries in their name. Common to the retail sector, the concept is a relatively new phenomenon for nursery groups, but one that is gaining in popularity for those that want to expand.

We also see how the big nursery chains measure up in our top 25 league table, and find out whether size makes a difference to quality in our exclusive Ofsted table.

And groups both large and small feature in our extensive guide to nursery chains around the country.

Plus, we profile two fast-moving groups to hear their stories and expansion plans, and meet some of our well-deserved award winners.

Read the articles:

• Top ranking
• Made to Order
• In all areas
• Doubling up
• Rise and shine
• Licence to care
• Directory - People & places A-G
• Directory- People & places H-Z

Finally, keep us up to date with your nursery openings, and tell us what you think at news.nw@markallengroup.com