Shildon Early Years

About this day nursery

Shildon Early Years, established in 2006, is a childcare setting in County Durham offering a warm and welcoming environment for children aged 2-3 years. The nursery operates from 8:00 to 16:00, Monday to Friday, all year round, ensuring consistent care.

With an overall 'Good' Ofsted rating from its November 2025 inspection, Shildon Early Years prides itself on its well-designed Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) curriculum, which focuses on preparing children for school with a strong emphasis on language development. The setting is particularly adept at supporting children with Special Educational Needs and/or Disabilities (SEND), tailoring ambitious yet achievable targets through focused teaching and regular reviews, and using visual supports, sensory resources, and flexible routines to ensure every child gets the support they need.

Children benefit from daily access to inviting outdoor spaces, engaging in activities that promote physical development and exploration, such as climbing and building. The new management team fosters a positive atmosphere by prioritising staff well-being and maintaining effective partnerships with families through stay-and-play sessions and a lending library to encourage reading at home.

What it's like

Children arrive happily into a warm, welcoming environment, where staff bring enthusiasm and joy to each day. They embrace the wide range of experiences that children and families bring, working hard to make sure everyone feels part of nursery life. They quickly build friendships and learn alongside one another. The setting supports all children's learning by valuing outdoor education and investing in garden spaces for exploration.