--- title: "First Steps Nursery, Margate | Ofsted: Good | Fees" description: "First Steps Nursery in Margate — rated Good by Ofsted. See fees, opening hours, photos and contact details. Compare nearby nurseries." lang: en-GB json-ld: | [ { "@context": "https://schema.org", "@type": "WebSite", "name": "Nursery Advice", "url": "https://www.nurseryadvice.co.uk", "description": "Search and compare UK nurseries. Ofsted ratings, fees, opening hours, Google reviews and inspection history — all in one place.", "inLanguage": "en-GB", "potentialAction": { "@type": "SearchAction", "target": { "@type": "EntryPoint", "urlTemplate": "https://www.nurseryadvice.co.uk/search?q={search_term_string}" }, "query-input": "required name=search_term_string" } }, { "@context": "https://schema.org", "@type": "Organization", "name": "Nursery Advice", "url": "https://www.nurseryadvice.co.uk", "description": "Search and compare UK nurseries. 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Compare nearby nurseries.", "isPartOf": { "@id": "https://www.nurseryadvice.co.uk/#website" }, "about": { "@id": "https://www.nurseryadvice.co.uk/nursery/first-steps-nursery-ct9-1ua-127184#nursery" }, "breadcrumb": { "@id": "https://www.nurseryadvice.co.uk/nursery/first-steps-nursery-ct9-1ua-127184#breadcrumb" }, "speakable": { "@type": "SpeakableSpecification", "cssSelector": [ "h1", "[data-speakable]" ] } }, { "@type": "ChildCare", "@id": "https://www.nurseryadvice.co.uk/nursery/first-steps-nursery-ct9-1ua-127184#nursery", "name": "First Steps Nursery", "url": "https://www.nurseryadvice.co.uk/nursery/first-steps-nursery-ct9-1ua-127184", "address": { "@type": "PostalAddress", "addressCountry": "GB", "streetAddress": "25-29 Thanet Road", "addressLocality": "Margate", "postalCode": "CT9 1UA" }, "mainEntityOfPage": { "@id": "https://www.nurseryadvice.co.uk/nursery/first-steps-nursery-ct9-1ua-127184#webpage" }, "telephone": "07410 691489", "sameAs": [ "https://firststepsnurserymargate.co.uk" ], "geo": { "@type": "GeoCoordinates", "latitude": 51.386511, "longitude": 1.388598 }, "areaServed": [ { "@type": "City", "name": "Margate" } ], "audience": { "@type": "PeopleAudience", "suggestedMinAge": 2, "suggestedMaxAge": 4 }, "award": "Ofsted: Good", "aggregateRating": { "@type": "AggregateRating", "ratingValue": 5, "reviewCount": 7, "bestRating": 5, "worstRating": 1 }, "review": [ { "@type": "Review", "reviewRating": { "@type": "Rating", "ratingValue": 5, "bestRating": 5, "worstRating": 1 }, "author": { "@type": "Person", "name": "chra alan" }, "reviewBody": "Best nursery and very friendy & very good", "datePublished": "2025-10-27T08:23:21.521404839Z", "inLanguage": "en" }, { "@type": "Review", "reviewRating": { "@type": "Rating", "ratingValue": 5, "bestRating": 5, "worstRating": 1 }, "author": { "@type": "Person", "name": "Claire Wilson" }, "reviewBody": "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.", "datePublished": "2018-09-06T08:45:09.638925Z", "inLanguage": "en" }, { "@type": "Review", "reviewRating": { "@type": "Rating", "ratingValue": 5, "bestRating": 5, "worstRating": 1 }, "author": { "@type": "Person", "name": "Kelly Roberts" }, "reviewBody": "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.", "datePublished": "2018-11-29T09:04:03.018040Z", "inLanguage": "en" }, { "@type": "Review", "reviewRating": { "@type": "Rating", "ratingValue": 5, "bestRating": 5, "worstRating": 1 }, "author": { "@type": "Person", "name": "Neil Appleton" }, "reviewBody": "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", "datePublished": "2016-10-17T17:07:51.801Z", "inLanguage": "en" }, { "@type": "Review", "reviewRating": { "@type": "Rating", "ratingValue": 5, "bestRating": 5, "worstRating": 1 }, "author": { "@type": "Person", "name": "Gabriella Brewer" }, "datePublished": "2025-09-29T05:37:52.924145711Z", "inLanguage": "en" } ] }, { "@type": "BreadcrumbList", "@id": "https://www.nurseryadvice.co.uk/nursery/first-steps-nursery-ct9-1ua-127184#breadcrumb", "itemListElement": [ { "@type": "ListItem", "position": 1, "name": "Home", "item": "https://www.nurseryadvice.co.uk/" }, { "@type": "ListItem", "position": 2, "name": "Nurseries", "item": "https://www.nurseryadvice.co.uk/nurseries" }, { "@type": "ListItem", "position": 3, "name": "South East", "item": "https://www.nurseryadvice.co.uk/search?region=South%20East" }, { "@type": "ListItem", "position": 4, "name": "First Steps Nursery", "item": "https://www.nurseryadvice.co.uk/nursery/first-steps-nursery-ct9-1ua-127184" } ] }, { "@type": "FAQPage", "@id": "https://www.nurseryadvice.co.uk/nursery/first-steps-nursery-ct9-1ua-127184#faq", "mainEntity": [ { "@type": "Question", "name": "How does First Steps Nursery help children settle in?", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "An excellent key-person system supports close bonds between children and staff. The nursery also expects children to attend for at least 15 hours a week, which helps them settle into the daily routine more quickly." } }, { "@type": "Question", "name": "How is First Steps Nursery classified by Ofsted?", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "First Steps Nursery is classed as childcare on non-domestic premises and operates as full day care. It is registered as a private day nursery in Margate." } }, { "@type": "Question", "name": "When was First Steps Nursery established?", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "First Steps Nursery was established in 1994 and is run as a family business." } }, { "@type": "Question", "name": "What curriculum approach is used at First Steps Nursery?", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "The nursery follows a varied and carefully sequenced curriculum. Website details describe planning that supports enjoyable experiences, curiosity, and all areas of learning across the indoor environment." } }, { "@type": "Question", "name": "Which funded childcare places does First Steps Nursery accept?", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "The nursery accepts 15 hours for eligible disadvantaged two-year-olds, 15 hours universal funding for three- and four-year-olds, and 30 hours funding for working parents of three- and four-year-olds. Tax-Free Childcare is also accepted." } }, { "@type": "Question", "name": "Is First Steps Nursery Ofsted registered?", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "Good, following the inspection on 13/10/2023. The setting is registered with Ofsted." } }, { "@type": "Question", "name": "What are the opening hours at First Steps Nursery?", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "The nursery opens from 7.30am to 5.30pm and operates term-time only." } } ] } ] } ] --- [![Nursery Advice](/__l5e/assets-v1/1c5557d3-f3fd-42f8-935a-3f2d2c3ac7e7/nursery-advice.webp "Nursery Advice")](/ "Nursery Advice") [Find Nurseries](/search)[Parent Hub](/parent-hub)[Compare](/compare)[About Us](/about-us)[For Nurseries](/for-nurseries) [Claim Your Nursery](/claim) [Find Nurseries](/search)[Parent Hub](/parent-hub)[Compare](/compare)[About Us](/about-us)[For Nurseries](/for-nurseries) 1. [Home](/) 2. · 3. [Nurseries](/nurseries) 4. · 5. [South East](/search?region=South+East) 6. · 7. First Steps Nursery # First Steps Nursery in Margate Compare Contact Nursery 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 - About - Pricing - Ofsted - Inclusion - Reviews - FAQ - [About](#about) - [Pricing](#pricing) - [Ofsted](#ofsted) - [Inclusion](#inclusion) - [Reviews](#reviews) - [FAQ](#faq) Email Nursery ## 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-run Purpose-built converted church setting Experienced 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-olds 15 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 See 5 more 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. ### Official Ofsted Report Independent inspection of First Steps Nursery Inspection date Oct 2023 Inspection no. 10307975 Lead inspector Jade Mellin Safeguarding arrangements are effective [Download full report (PDF)](https://files.ofsted.gov.uk/v1/file/50233189)[View on Ofsted.gov.uk](https://reports.ofsted.gov.uk/provider/16/127184) Visit or enquire ### Book a show-around Most settings reply within 48 hours. Schedule a VisitContact NurseryJoin Waitlist Get in touch ### Contact Reveal phone number [ Visit website ](https://firststepsnurserymargate.co.uk) 25-29 Thanet Road, Margate, CT9 1UA ## Explore day nurseries near Margate - [Day nurseries in Margate](/search?q=Margate) - [Day nurseries in South East](/search?q=South+East) Is this your nursery? Claim this listing to add photos, pricing, and respond to enquiries. [Claim this listing](/claim?nursery=first-steps-nursery-ct9-1ua-127184) ## 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 - 1 support staff to fully refine the organisation and planning of the outdoor learning environment. Inspection #10307975 · Source: Ofsted [View full Ofsted report](https://files.ofsted.gov.uk/v1/file/50233189) ## 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) ![](https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/a/ACg8ocJHUu7iTwegRIsxUnhGDaoHiH03RF0JKICAeZbrQrYtsfihew=s128-c0x00000000-cc-rp-mo) chra alan 6 months ago Best nursery and very friendy & very good [Read on Google](https://www.google.com/maps/reviews/data=!4m6!14m5!1m4!2m3!1sCi9DQUlRQUNvZENodHljRjlvT25oZmRXeFVkMEprU0Y4ellXMUJkakpvY0ZoNWFGRRAB!2m1!1s0x47d953a42b663511:0x65151d229e61102f) ![](https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/a-/ALV-UjUhvIHDEl7ZsywjRYurWOnzubtB63T57zl7KB1nyyGXngwFDas=s128-c0x00000000-cc-rp-mo-ba3) 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. [Read on Google](https://www.google.com/maps/reviews/data=!4m6!14m5!1m4!2m3!1sChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSURnNV9XM0l3EAE!2m1!1s0x47d953a42b663511:0x65151d229e61102f) ![](https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/a-/ALV-UjVcV8WFKirQlqF8iFHrO4CDQCS-gsAvpt8wTYPkRXPc61BS42lA=s128-c0x00000000-cc-rp-mo) 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. [Read on Google](https://www.google.com/maps/reviews/data=!4m6!14m5!1m4!2m3!1sChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNJMWRmTWFBEAE!2m1!1s0x47d953a42b663511:0x65151d229e61102f) ![](https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/a-/ALV-UjWfMI3lXefdvRcgzNT7mJvdznfB_O_R3j12P4W0nFyEgvD7IUmcTg=s128-c0x00000000-cc-rp-mo-ba4) 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](https://www.google.com/maps/reviews/data=!4m6!14m5!1m4!2m3!1sChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUN3NG9HQnZ3RRAB!2m1!1s0x47d953a42b663511:0x65151d229e61102f) ![](https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/a/ACg8ocI9xORiAXKPP8T_7lIcJ73Uz-O5wr6b9Y25xRLUfEPXw94Wqw=s128-c0x00000000-cc-rp-mo) Gabriella Brewer 7 months ago [Read on Google](https://www.google.com/maps/reviews/data=!4m6!14m5!1m4!2m3!1sCi9DQUlRQUNvZENodHljRjlvT21KTk5rcGhVWFZmZVdkR1JEUXlXbEI2TFhFd01IYxAB!2m1!1s0x47d953a42b663511:0x65151d229e61102f) Reviews from Google for First Steps Nursery. [See all on Google Maps](https://maps.google.com/?cid=7283760006864900143&g_mp=CiVnb29nbGUubWFwcy5wbGFjZXMudjEuUGxhY2VzLkdldFBsYWNlEAIYBCAA) Inspection history Date: April 2011 - October 2023 Good - March 2018 Good - November 2015 Good - April 2011 Outstanding ## Frequently asked about First Steps Nursery ### How does First Steps Nursery help children settle in? ### How is First Steps Nursery classified by Ofsted? ### When was First Steps Nursery established? ### What curriculum approach is used at First Steps Nursery? ### Which funded childcare places does First Steps Nursery accept? ### Is First Steps Nursery Ofsted registered? ### What are the opening hours at First Steps Nursery? ## Nearby day nurseries in Margate Other Ofsted-registered day nurseries close to First Steps Nursery. - [ Ofsted: Outstanding 0.2 mi ### Townsend Montessori Nurseries @ Margate Margate · CT9 1SX 4.8(31 Google reviews) ](/nursery/townsend-montessori-nurseries-margate-ct9-1sx-ey450900) - [ Ofsted: Good 0.3 mi ### My Nursery Margate · CT9 1TF ](/nursery/my-nursery-ct9-1tf-ey293734) - [ Awaiting first inspection 0.4 mi ### Bright Start Cliftonville Margate · CT9 2QD 4.5(8 Google reviews) ](/nursery/bright-start-cliftonville-ct9-2qd-2821249) - [ Ofsted: Good 0.6 mi ### Little Oaks Margate Margate · CT9 4AN ](/nursery/little-oaks-margate-ct9-4an-ey455548) - [ Ofsted: Outstanding 0.9 mi ### Manor House Nursery School Margate · CT9 5QX 3.9(7 Google reviews) ](/nursery/manor-house-nursery-school-limited-ct9-5qx-ey550991) - [ Ofsted: Good 0.9 mi ### Bright Start Nursery Margate · CT9 5QT ](/nursery/bright-start-nursery-ct9-5qt-ey452173) [See all nurseries in Margate →](/search?q=Margate) ### Are you the owner of this nursery? 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