Business Details
49 Years
experience
Trusted Childcare and Early Education in Oxford
Horspath Nursery has been nurturing young minds in Oxford since 1977, providing high-quality childcare and education for children aged 2 to 5 years. Our dedicated team prioritises individual needs through a homely, welcoming environment that fosters security, belonging, and effective learning. We maintain strong partnerships with families, ensuring age-appropriate learning opportunities and promoting physical health through regular access to outdoor spaces.As a registered charity overseen by an elected parent committee, we combine community involvement with professional expertise to deliver exceptional early years education. Our facilities include a wildlife area, gardens, and shared school resources, supporting holistic development through play and structured activities. Regular self-evaluation ensures our standards remain aligned with Ofsted requirements and evolving educational best practices.
Services
Early Years Education
Outdoor Play Sessions
Parent Partnership Programme
Nature Reserve Access
Flexible Session Times
Government-Funded Places
Holiday Play Schemes
Special Educational Needs Support
Healthy Meal Provision
Community Fundraising Events
Details
- Year established: 1977
Highlights and features
- Established in 1977 with proven expertise in early childhood education
- Dedicated team of qualified nursery professionals with term-time consistency
- Strong parent-partnership approach enhancing child development outcomes
- Unique access to school facilities and natural learning environments
- Community-led charity model maintaining affordable childcare costs
Associations and certifications
- Ofsted
What people say
Most wonderful time
Lovely place
Well-rounded environment
Positive, respectful approach
Homely feel
Services
Early Years Education
Structured educational programmes for ages 2-5 following Early Years Foundation Stage guidelines. Qualified teachers deliver age-appropriate activities covering literacy, numeracy, and personal development through play-based learning. Sessions incorporate phonics, guided reading, and creative arts to stimulate cognitive growth.
Outdoor Play Sessions
Daily access to purpose-built play areas and natural wildlife spaces. Children develop motor skills through gardening, woodland exploration, and physical play while learning environmental awareness. Outdoor activities are designed to enhance sensory experiences and social interaction.
Parent Partnership Programme
Collaborative approach to child development through regular parent-teacher communication. Includes termly meetings, progress updates, and home-learning suggestions. Parents can participate in committee roles or contribute skills to enhance nursery facilities and activities.
Holiday Play Schemes
Extended childcare during school holidays featuring themed activities and educational play. Summer and Easter schemes run from 9am-4pm with structured programmes including arts, cooking, and nature projects while maintaining safety and developmental focus.
Flexible Session Times
Adaptable attendance plans accommodating working families. Offers morning, afternoon, and full-day sessions with additional breakfast and after-school clubs. Term-time provision aligns with school schedules while maintaining consistent care routines for enrolled children.
People
Joanne Horne
Nursery Manager
Experienced early years specialist leading Horspath Nursery since its Ofsted-registered operations began. Committed to child-centred learning through secure, stimulating environments that prioritise individual development and parental collaboration.
Corinne
Deputy Manager
Supports nursery operations with expertise in childcare provision and team leadership. Works closely with Joanne to maintain educational standards and ensure compliance with early years regulations.
Hannah
Nursery Assistant
Qualified childcare professional delivering daily activities and individual support for children aged 2-5. Focuses on creating engaging learning experiences within structured play environments.
Amy
Nursery Assistant
Experienced assistant providing hands-on care and educational support across all nursery sessions. Specialises in early communication development and sensory play activities.
Angie
All Stars Assistant
After-school care specialist managing enrichment activities and homework support. Ensures safe, enjoyable transitions between school and nursery environments.
Questions
What age range do you accept?
We care for children aged 2 to 5 years through our Ofsted-registered early years programme.
Are government-funded places available?
Yes, we offer government-funded childcare options for eligible families - please provide your funding code during registration.
What are your operating hours?
Term-time childcare from 7:30am-5:30pm with flexible session options and holiday play schemes available.
How do you involve parents?
We maintain daily communication and offer formal meetings while encouraging parental participation through our volunteer committee and fundraising activities.
What outdoor facilities do you have?
Children enjoy dedicated play areas, gardens, and a wildlife reserve alongside access to Horspath Primary School's playground facilities.
How do you support child development?
Our curriculum combines structured learning with free play, focusing on communication, physical development, and personal, social, and emotional growth.
