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First Steps Nursery in Margate

Ofsted: Good
(Oct 2023)
·
5.0(7 Google reviews)
·25-29 Thanet Road, Margate, CT9 1UA · Kent
Number of places
100 places
Age range
2–4 yrs
Last inspected
Oct 2023
Local authority
Kent

About this day nursery

First Steps Nursery, established in 1994, is a family-operated childcare provider located on the outskirts of Dane Park in Margate. Situated within a converted church building, the day nursery offers a stimulating environment across two spacious, open-plan floors, complemented by a dedicated Pre-School classroom and canteen area.

The premises are equipped with air conditioning to maintain comfortable temperatures year-round. First Steps Nursery is committed to fostering a community where both children and parents feel valued, offering a safe and secure setting.

The day nursery operates with a structured management team, including two full-time managers and a SENCO for children requiring additional support, alongside a team of ten qualified nursery practitioners. All staff hold a minimum Level 3 qualification, with some possessing Early Years foundation degrees, and are DBS checked, first-aid trained, and hold up-to-date safeguarding certificates.

The nursery also collaborates with a registered photographer for annual photo shoots and graduation pictures for children transitioning to primary school.

What it's like

Children arrive at the setting happy and excited, quickly settling into morning activities with staff support. They develop independence through carefully planned routines and practice daily skills like handwashing. Staff teach children the importance of sharing and turn-taking, fostering respect in play.

Family-runPurpose-built converted church settingExperienced and qualified staff

Pricing & funding

Fees are charged on a flat hourly rate basis. Children must attend for a minimum of 15 hours per week to support settling in. Compulsory uniforms are required for children in the Stars and Pre-School rooms.

Funding accepted

15 hours — eligible 2-year-olds15 hours — universal (3–4 yrs)30 hours — working parents (3–4 yrs)Tax-Free Childcare
  • Hourly rate£8.50 / hour
  • Registration fee£50.00
  • Waterproof Reversible fleece lined Coat£22.00
  • Sweatshirt£12.00
  • Girl’s Cardigan£14.00

Good to know

  • Minimum booking of 15 hours per week is required for all children.
  • Fees are payable either four-weekly or termly in advance.
  • Full fees apply for absences due to illness.
  • A non-refundable registration fee is required, waived for those only accessing funded hours.
  • Morning arrival is required between 7:30 am and 9:00 am.
  • Late pick-up charges apply for collections after the 4:00 pm closing time.

Key facts

Staff

two full time managers and a SENCO for children with additional needs, and ten full time qualified nursery practitioners

Opening hours

7.30am to 5.30pm

Term time / All Year

Term Time

Registered with Ofsted

2000

Ofsted Inspection

Ofsted rating for First Steps Nursery

Last inspected 13 October 2023 · Jade Mellin

Safeguarding effective
Overall effectiveness
Good
Quality of education
Good
Behaviour and attitudes
Good
Personal development
Outstanding
Leadership and management
Good

What it's like to attend

Children arrive at the setting happy and excited, quickly settling into morning activities with staff support. They develop independence through carefully planned routines and practice daily skills like handwashing. Staff teach children the importance of sharing and turn-taking, fostering respect in play.

Inspector highlights

  • Children show high levels of engagement and staff superbly plan enjoyable and engaging experiences to spark children's curiosity.
  • Children have lovely, close bonds with staff, as there is an excellent key-person system in place.
  • Managers have high expectations of all staff and are very supportive, fostering a strong team feel.
  • Indoors, children have a wonderful environment to explore, carefully planned to facilitate all areas of learning and maximise engagement.
  • Managers understand the importance of a varied and exciting curriculum and how to plan and sequence experiences for children.

Areas to develop

  • 1support staff to fully refine the organisation and planning of the outdoor learning environment.
Inspection #10307975 · Source: OfstedView full Ofsted report

What parents say

Verbatim quotes recorded in the Ofsted inspection

Parents speak very highly of the nursery and praise staff members and the bonds they have formed with their children.

Inclusion & environment

How they support every child

SEND provision

Children with special educational needs and/or disabilities (SEND) are well supported by the special educational needs and disabilities coordinator (SENDCo) and by all staff. For instance, the SENDCo develops staff's understanding of how to support children and implement support, such as through personalised plans. Staff also use spaces within the nursery well, such as quiet areas, to provide individual support and sensory experiences to help children with specific needs.

Outdoor space

The outdoor area is popular with children. However, planning for the outdoor area could be strengthened to enhance learning opportunities and ensure the same levels of engagement are met outside.

Google Reviews of First Steps Nursery

5.0
(7 Google reviews)
chra alan
6 months ago

Best nursery and very friendy & very good

Read on Google
Claire Wilson
7 years ago

Amazing nursery, children are taught everything they need to succeed and more. Safe surroundings for children to grow and develop, and it's like leaving children with family And friends not a educational establishment. Would definitely recommend.

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Kelly Roberts
7 years ago

Amazing nursery such caring staff it's a happy warm environment my daughter has had fun while learning and developed with confidence thanks to all the staff, very well lead by management.

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Neil Appleton
9 years ago

My three children have gone to this nursery and my youngest one has just left they have three different levels for different children's ages and I have found them outstanding and would recommend them to anyone

Read on Google

Reviews from Google for First Steps Nursery. See all on Google Maps

Inspection history

Date: April 2011

  • October 2023Good
  • March 2018Good
  • November 2015Good
  • April 2011Outstanding

Frequently asked about First Steps Nursery

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This listing has been compiled from official Ofsted records, the nursery's own website, details provided directly by the nursery where available, and other trusted public sources. We regularly review and update listings to keep the information as accurate as possible. Learn more