The Cottage Nursery in Watchfield, Nr Swindon

About this day nursery

The Cottage Nursery, a registered charity operating under the guidance of Managers Clare Olden and Trudi Krzywiec and a Board of Trustees, offers high-quality childcare services in the Shrivenham and Watchfield regions. Established in 1987 as Beckett Crèche, it merged with Beckett School in 1995 and was rebranded as The Cottage Nursery, accommodating 125 children with a staff of 4 full-time and 12 part-time members.

Originally located in Beckett Cottage, the nursery relocated to Alexander Hall, Faringdon Road, Watchfield to better serve families, especially those linked to the Defence Academy of the United Kingdom, alongside local residents. The nursery prioritises children's development through a well-defined curriculum and a variety of engaging activities.

They maintain an active Facebook presence to share updates on children’s experiences, ranging from community initiatives like "Look for Books Oxfordshire" to in-nursery events such as yoga sessions, fire engine visits, dentist role-play, and bug hunts. The facility also emphasises safety, having invested in LifeVac devices for each room where children eat, complementing their robust first aid training.

The nursery demonstrates a commitment to community involvement, as seen in their Harvest celebration which involved children in a walk to St. Alban’s Church to deliver food donations. Testimonials highlight the diverse activities offered and the nurturing environment provided by the nursery.

What it's like

Children confidently separate from their parents or carers and are welcomed by kind and attentive staff. Their behaviour is exceptional, and they play in a friendly and inclusive environment, forging excellent relationships. Staff engage children in purposeful learning experiences, supporting them to build on prior knowledge and skills, and foster a love of stories and songs.

Pricing & funding