South Hills Nursery Corsham

Jane Doe

2 months ago

As a parent, I am incredibly disappointed with my experience of South Hills Nursery in Corsham. During a look around a child attempted to approach and communicate with me. The child was sternly and abruptly redirected . The child was visibly distressed afterwards, and other people who saw the situation looked equally upset by how the situation was handled. It was uncomfortable to witness and did not reflect the calm, nurturing approach I would expect in an early years setting. Through both my own interactions and first-hand insight from a former member of staff, I have become deeply concerned about the culture and management of this nursery. The leadership style appears rigid, controlling, and dismissive of both staff and parents. Staff input, professional judgement, and ideas reportedly aren’t welcomed unless they align exactly with management’s way of doing things. That kind of environment does not foster passion, morale, or quality childcare. I have serious concerns about the way children’s development is approached. It feels overly structured and regimental, with an apparent push for children to move rooms quickly. From what I’ve observed and been told, room transitions don’t always appear to be based purely on a child’s readiness, but rather on creating space for new starters. Children are not all the same, and rushing development or transitions to suit numbers is not child-centred practice. The nursery environment itself feels uninspiring. There is a heavy focus on character-branded toys, with limited open-ended play opportunities that encourage imagination, exploration, and independent thinking. Early years settings should be rich in creativity and child-led learning. This did not feel like that kind of environment. While there are a small number of new staff who clearly care and show genuine passion for the children, the overall atmosphere among longer standing staff appears tired and disengaged. That in itself speaks volumes about the internal culture. Perhaps most concerning is the lack of openness to parental input. When it comes to our children, parents should feel heard and respected. I did not feel that flexibility or collaboration was welcomed. Choosing childcare is one of the biggest decisions a parent makes. Based on my experience and what I have learned, I would not feel confident recommending this nursery to other parents looking for a nursery and feel awful for the staff who do love their job that work there.

Alice Brazier

3 years ago

Wonderful, kind, supportive nursery environment where the children come first. Excellent staff. Highly reccomend.

Loretta Baker

a year ago

Poor attitude and very little help to additional needs.

dan demaj

8 years ago

Lovely staff and safe and clean environment