Headstart Education Centre

About this day nursery

Headstart Education Centre, established in 2002, offers nursery and home-education provisions designed to support children within an Islamic ethos, while warmly welcoming families from all religious backgrounds. The centre emphasises collaboration with parents, viewing them as primary educators, and strives to create a harmonious learning environment consistent with home life.

They are a registered charity focused on providing affordable and accessible childcare and education, offering subsidies and discounts for families with multiple children. Headstart caters to early years (9 months to 4 years) and provides home education arrangements for primary (ages 5-11) and, in exploration, secondary years.

They integrate mainstream subjects like Maths, English, Science, and Computing, adjusting content to align with their ethos, alongside Islamic and Quranic studies. The centre boasts a strong track record, with many graduates achieving early entry into secondary education and pursuing successful careers.

They prioritise hands-on learning through various trips, workshops, and outdoor activities. Headstart is registered with Ofsted and operates as a part-time education and childcare centre rather than a traditional school, necessitating active parental involvement in their child's learning journey.

Our ethos

Our primary purpose is supporting children within an Islamic ethos. All parents considering registering with us should be aware of this ethos. Our belief is that the primary responsibility of the upbringing, education and care of children lies with the parents and we aim to support this by providing a harmonious environment consistent with the home atmosphere. At Headstart we believe the parents are the child’s first carers and educators, who nurture and guide them in life. We accept that there are different schools of thought in the Muslim faith and as a guideline Ibadaat issues generally will be instructed in the Hanafi school of thought. However, the underlying basis is that differences of opinion derived from the different schools of thought are all valid. Headstart Education Centre welcomes children from all religious backgrounds and will support the care, education and development of your child whatever your faith. Families from all sections of the community are welcome, and can to opt-out of Islamic/Quranic sessions should they choose to. All families are invited in to an interview before a place is offered to their child.

What it's like

Children enjoy attending this setting and are confident explorers, forming warm relationships with staff. Leaders and staff plan a curriculum that supports all children, including those with SEND, preparing them for the next stage of their education. Children behave well, with staff setting clear expectations and using meaningful praise to foster a sense of pride and positively influence behaviour.