FAQs
If you have any further questions which haven’t been covered below, please don’t hesitate to get in touch and we will be happy to help.
What age does my child need to be to attend Number Train?
Number Train was originally designed for children aged 3 years+ however over the last few years, several children have started when they were 2 and a half years old and attended until starting school. As all children develop differently, it is up to each individual parent to decide if their child is ready so by coming along to a trial session, parents can decide for themselves.
Do you offer a TASTER session?
Yes, as parent ourselves, we feel that attending a trial initially is very important. All children are different, and by attending a taster session, you can see if your child likes the class and if they are ready for all of the activities on offer. There is no obligation to sign up after attending a trial but most parents do as they realise how much the classes have to offer. View our Number Train timetable for a full list of our times and locations.
How much are the classes?
Face to face classes are currently £9 per session (2024-25) and after a taster session, you can book onto the block of sessions for that half term. (approx 6 weeks per half term) but you can join midway through if there is availability.
Can I bring a younger sibling?
Yes, you are welcome to bring a younger sibling along and if they are under 2 years old, they are free of charge. Siblings over 2 years old are charged at 50% of the normal fees. (£4.50 per session during 2024-25) Due to limited capacity rules, please let me know in advance if you intend to bring a younger sibling so I can account for them in my total numbers. It is the parents responsibility to watch their younger siblings as their may be toys/ small items which the older child uses and must be kept out of reach.
Can I pay for just one session at a time?
Due to the popularity of Number Train and limited availability, we are unable to offer ‘pay as you go’ where you pay for just one session at a time. We only accept block bookings a half term at a time. Number Train is also a carefully planned programme of lessons which link together with progression over the year. Therefore, for your child to get the most of the classes, attending a series of consecutive lessons is highly recommended. Many parents start by signing up to a block in the first instance, see the benefits and end up staying until the summer before their child starts school.
Where are the sessions?
We deliver sessions across North Leeds, Wetherby, Harrogate, Otley and Ilkley. View our Number Train timetable for a full list of our times and locations.
How long does each session last?
The sessions last approximately 1 hour and include a mix of singing, dancing, action songs, games, stories, art & craft and free playtime. All activities include an element of maths as well as covering many other skills from the Early Years Curriculum.
Do parent/carers stay with their child?
Yes, an adult attends with their child each week to offer any additional support/ encouragement as and when required. The classes have been designed to help both adults and children so they can enjoy Number Train themes together and positive learning relationships are fostered from an early age. Parents often mention how much they learn alongside their children and leave with lots of ideas to try at home!
How many children are in each class?
We take a maximum of 15 preschool children in one class. From my experience, in the venues being used, this is the optimum number. This does not include younger siblings under 2 years old.
Which days of the week are sessions running?
Number Train sessions are on every week day during term time only. See our full train timetable for exact times and locations.
What happens if I cannot attend the session, will I be refunded?
If you are unable to attend your session for any reason, please let me know in advance where possible. Sadly, I cannot refund you but you where we have space we will try and offer you a place in another class that week. This is a goodwill gesture and is NOT guaranteed.
The session I would like to attend is full, can I join a waiting list?
Yes, with many sessions already full, I keep a list of people who are interested in attending. As soon as a place becomes available I can make contact with the first person on the waiting list.
Can I join at any time during the year?
Yes, you can join Number Train at any time however the ideal time to start is September when we start the programme so they have the full coverage before starting school. Getting in touch a few months earlier is always worthwhile as certain classes fill very quickly in the Autumn term.
Were you primary school teachers before?
Yes, we have all trained to be teachers and have worked in Primary Education for many years. Please read the Meet the Team section for more details.
Can I listen to the Number Train song at home?
Of course you can! I hope you’ll all enjoy singing along.
