Harpenden Day Nursery and Preschool

About Our Nursery

Curriculum

Our early years curriculum is designed to support learning through play, curiosity, and discovery. We follow children’s interests and use a wide range of carefully chosen resources to extend learning naturally and meaningfully. Our approach supports early communication, physical development, emotional wellbeing, and growing independence.

Our preschool programme focuses on school readiness, helping children build confidence, resilience, and a positive attitude to learning as they prepare for their next stage.

Our team

Our friendly, dedicated team is at the heart of our nursery. Led by an experienced Nursery Manager, our staff includes highly qualified early years professionals, SENCo Level 3 practitioners, and first aid‑trained team members. Many of our staff are long‑standing, providing continuity and strong relationships with children and families.

Each child is supported by a key person who knows them well and works closely with families to ensure consistent care and individual support.

Playrooms

Our calm, cosy, and well‑resourced playrooms are thoughtfully arranged to support children at every stage of early years development. Rooms are loosely structured around age ranges, allowing children the freedom to explore in a safe, familiar environment. Our older children enjoy free‑flow access between their playrooms and the garden.

We also offer a lending library, encouraging families to enjoy stories together at home and extend learning beyond the nursery day.

Outdoor play

Our large, natural garden plays a central role in nursery life. Children enjoy planting, growing, and caring for fruit, vegetables, and plants, helping them understand where food comes from and supporting healthy habits from an early age. Activities such as apple harvesting, digging, balancing, climbing, and bike riding support physical development and confidence, while encouraging a love of the outdoors.