First Steps Day Nursery in Shepton Mallet

About this day nursery

First Steps Day Nursery, established in 1993, provides childcare on non-domestic premises in Shepton Mallet for children aged 0-4 years. 30am to 6pm, Monday to Friday, all year round (except public holidays), the nursery was rated Good in its latest Ofsted inspection on 2nd July 2025.

Children at First Steps are enthusiastic and motivated learners, flourishing from the care and learning opportunities provided by staff. The nursery has a newly implemented, ambitiously designed curriculum.

Leaders work closely with local schools to select educational programmes, including daily literacy sessions that build phonological awareness through games, helping children transition to school. Staff are adept at delivering these sessions playfully and energetically, encouraging children to achieve important milestones.

The inspector observed the quality of education indoors and outdoors. Staff place a high priority on identifying children who need intervention, implementing targeted and playful activities within a language-rich environment.

However, the inspection noted that weaknesses in assessment sometimes mean some children are not identified quickly enough, which can impact their progress. Staff are excellent role models, promoting respectful relationships and independence, and helping children make healthy choices during mealtimes.

Trips beyond the setting are organised to provide firsthand learning about nature and the community.

What it's like

Children are enthusiastic, motivated learners who flourish from the care and learning opportunities staff provide to support their development. The newly implemented curriculum is ambitiously designed. Leaders thoughtfully work with local schools to select educational programmes that deliver their curriculum effectively.