Ashbourne Day Nurseries at Upton Meadows

About this day nursery

Ashbourne Day Nurseries at Upton Meadows, registered in 2007, currently holds a "Good" rating from its Ofsted inspection on 20 June 2022. Situated in the grounds of Upton Meadows Primary School, this full-day care nursery operates independently, offering sessions from 7:45 am to 6 pm during school term time for children aged 2 to 11.

The nursery caters to 64 children with a capacity of 60, supported by 10 childcare staff, including a manager with early years teacher status. Children confidently settle in, showing eagerness to explore and investigate both indoor and outdoor toys, demonstrating good hand-to-eye coordination and problem-solving skills with construction toys.

The curriculum is thoughtfully planned to meet children's needs, with a particular focus on promoting oral hygiene, including the use of additional funding for resources like timers and toothbrushes. Staff work closely with the host school to ensure children are emotionally prepared for their transition to school, inviting teachers to visit and familiarise themselves with the children.

The nursery encourages children to think and respond through engaging questions, extending their understanding of shapes and numbers through practical activities. They also plan experiences like role-play camping to broaden children's knowledge and encourage conversations about diverse family experiences.

Recent outdoor enhancements, such as a mud and herb kitchen, aim to boost imagination, foster relationships, and encourage descriptive language. While children generally behave well, the nursery is working on consistently helping children to understand and identify their feelings and emotions, and to strengthen their knowledge of potential risks, including online safety.

Safeguarding arrangements are effective, with staff demonstrating a strong understanding of abuse indicators and reporting procedures, alongside thorough recruitment processes and good health and safety practices like sun protection and hydration.

What it's like

Children confidently separate from parents and feel safe and secure. They are keen to explore and investigate, demonstrating good hand-to-eye coordination and problem-solving skills. Children thoroughly enjoy playing outside and show good behaviour.

Pricing & funding