Tortoise Nursery

About this day nursery

Tortoise Nursery, established in September 2000 by Joy Francis, offers high-quality childcare focusing on a nurturing environment where children can thrive at their own pace. Emphasising individuality, the nursery employs a team of dedicated professionals.

The setting is divided into a Baby and Toddler Room for children aged 3 to 30 months, which promotes interactive and sensory learning with a limited use of plastic toys to encourage authentic exploration. The Preschool caters to children from 30 months onwards, focusing on outdoor learning, building independence, and social skills through a mix of ages to foster empathy and responsibility.

The nursery champions outdoor learning with a secure area featuring a mud kitchen and natural materials for imaginative and risk-taking play, alongside a weekly Forest School experience. Their educational approach is rooted in the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) principles, advocating for learning through play and experience both indoors and outdoors.

The staff, all qualified from level 2-5 in Early Years, hold first aid and food hygiene certifications, and have undergone DBS checks, prioritising child-initiated learning over extensive paperwork.

What it's like

Children thrive at this inspirational nursery. They are greeted warmly by friendly and welcoming staff. The nursery team nurtures strong relationships with children and their families, which helps children settle well and be ready to learn.

Pricing & funding

Fees are structured around an optional daily charge for extras and an hourly rate for additional care. The optional extras charge covers daily meals, snacks, and non-food consumables, while extra-curricular activities are billed separately. Additional hours outside funded hours are charged hourly.