Question 1

How much can I save with the workplace nursery scheme?

Accepted Answer

Most parents save between 25% and 47% of their nursery fees through the workplace nursery scheme, depending on salary and how much you pay. Fees come out of your salary before tax and National Insurance, so more of your pay stays with you. The calculator gives your personalised figure.

Question 2

Does it cost me anything?

Accepted Answer

Kinsail is funded through the employer side of the arrangement, not by you. You simply pay less for your childcare each month.

Question 3

Can I keep my current nursery?

Accepted Answer

In most cases, yes. Any Ofsted-registered nursery can join the network, and we'll invite yours if it isn't a partner yet.

Question 4

What if my employer isn't signed up?

Accepted Answer

Use the calculator and we can introduce the scheme to your employer for you. It's a no-obligation introduction.

Question 5

What does it cost us?

Accepted Answer

You provide a contribution towards nursery costs, of which 58% goes to the nursery and 42% is Kinsail's management fee. There's a one-off onboarding fee to get set up, then only a standard salary sacrifice change to payroll.

Question 6

How much admin is there for our team?

Accepted Answer

Very little. We provide monthly payroll instructions and handle contracts, nursery onboarding, compliance meetings and reporting on your behalf.

Question 7

Is there a minimum number of employees?

Accepted Answer

No. The scheme is available to any employee whose child attends a qualifying nursery, with no minimum headcount.

Question 8

What does it cost our nursery to join?

Accepted Answer

Nothing. Joining the Kinsail network is free for nurseries, and you receive guaranteed monthly contributions towards your costs and improvements.

Question 9

How do we spend the contribution?

Accepted Answer

On agreed improvements, from equipment and resources to staff training and facilities. You upload receipts, and we handle the reporting.

Question 10

Is the workplace nursery scheme HMRC compliant?

Accepted Answer

Yes. The workplace nursery scheme is provided under Section 318 of the Income Tax (Earnings and Pensions) Act 2003. Kinsail structures each arrangement around HMRC's published guidance and maintains all documentation, receipts and audit trails.

Question 11

How does salary sacrifice work?

Accepted Answer

You agree a change in salary in exchange for the workplace nursery scheme. Because your gross pay is reduced before tax and National Insurance are calculated, you keep more of what you earn.

Question 12

What happens if my circumstances change?

Accepted Answer

Arrangements run for a fixed term, with changes handled through recognised lifestyle events and an employer-approved exception process. Your employer's HR team owns these decisions.

Frequently asked questions.

For parents

For employers

For nurseries

Salary sacrifice & compliance

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