Ensure that your childcare services are recorded in a formal, legally binding contract. This childcare contract will help protect both parties by keeping a record of the details included in the provision of services.
Childcare contract
What is a childcare contract?
A childcare contract is an agreement between a childcare provider (ie a business that provides childcare such as a nursery) and a child’s parents or legal guardians. It sets out the agreed upon terms relating to the childcare, including the fees payable to the childcare provider for their services, how payment should be made and when a payment will be considered late.
When should I use a childcare contract?
Use this childcare contract template:
- if you are a business in England or Wales
- if you provide childcare services
What is included in a childcare contract?
This childcare contract covers:
- childcare provider details
- parent details
- fees, including the option to add a registration fee
- how payment should be made
- how often invoices will be issued
- if late collection fees will be payable
- limitation of liability
- termination of the contract
Do I need a childcare contract?
A childcare contract offers certainty and helps protect both parties by setting out the terms of your agreement in relation to the childcare.
Will fees still be payable by parents in the event that I have to close my business?
A childcare contract offers certainty and helps protect both parties by setting out the terms of your agreement in relation to the childcare. This childcare contract allows you to decide and set out specific terms determining when fees will still be payable by parents in the event of closure of your business. This can include closure due to:
- illness
- holidays
- public holidays
- events that are out of the childcare providers control
Events outside of the childcare providers control are known as force majeure events, which include but are not limited to natural disasters, terrorist attacks or epidemics, and prevent the fulfillment of the childcare providers contractual obligations.
How can the contract be terminated?
This childcare contract allows you to specify the notice period that must be given by parents if they wish to end the agreement. It also allows you to set out when a child’s place will be cancelled as a result of unpaid fees.
Further advice
Ask a lawyer if:
- the document doesn't meet your needs or cover what you want
- you are based in Scotland
This childcare contract is governed by the laws of England and Wales.