Little Orchard Nursery And Pre School

About this day nursery

Little Orchard Nursery and Pre-School, nestled in South Brent, Devon, offers a nurturing and stimulating environment for children aged 2 to 5 years. Operating from a converted bungalow with expansive gardens, the nursery provides a "home from home" atmosphere where children are encouraged to explore, learn, and develop.

The setting is divided into the Acorn Room for 2-3 year olds and the Oak Rooms for 3-5 year olds, with dedicated areas like The Studio for arts, The Snug for quiet activities, The Library for reading, and The Den for larger group play. The nursery emphasises outdoor learning, incorporating "forest school" principles in its gardens with mud kitchens and a polytunnel for growing produce, fostering resilience and problem-solving skills.

A key feature is the communal kitchen where children can engage in cooking activities with Tina, the cook, promoting healthy eating, hygiene, and fine motor skills. The curriculum is guided by the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS), with teaching styles drawing from Montessori, Forest School, and Steiner philosophies, all underpinned by a foundation of respect, independence, and care for others.

The nursery is sensitive to the diverse needs of children, welcoming those with special educational needs and disabilities, and collaborates closely with parents and professionals to ensure each child thrives. They offer flexible sessions and provide a prospectus with comprehensive terms and conditions to maintain high standards of care and education.

Our ethos

Drawing from Montessori, Forest School, and Steiner philosophies, Little Orchard Nursery and Pre-School is committed to fostering respect, independence, and care for others. They emphasise outdoor learning inspired by Forest School principles and incorporate cooking activities to promote healthy eating and hygiene, all within a nurturing, home-like environment guided by the EYFS framework.

What it's like

Children enter this welcoming nursery and pre-school with excitement, and staff greet them warmly. Children take off their shoes and place them on the rack before independently putting on their slippers. They find their name on their designated pegs and self-register, to support name recognition.

Pricing & funding

The nursery charges hourly and multi-hour session rates during term time, alongside dedicated holiday club sessions. Holiday club rates are tiered by age, distinguishing between two-year-olds and children aged three and over. Additional fees apply for meals, late payments, and late collections.