Business Details
Montessori Nursery & Pre-School in Chester
Stepping Stones Montessori Nursery & Pre School is a family-owned childcare provider based in Waverton, Chester, operating from a Grade II listed heritage building. Established to deliver high-quality early years education, the nursery combines Montessori principles with Forest School methodologies to foster holistic child development. With over 15 years of collective experience among senior staff, including qualified Early Years educators and SENCO specialists, the nursery prioritises individualised learning, outdoor exploration, and nutritional excellence.The team maintains rigorous safety standards through biometric access control, CCTV, and regular safeguarding training. Partnerships with local primary schools ensure seamless transitions to formal education, while daily communication and parent engagement initiatives strengthen home-learning connections. The nurserys commitment to quality is evidenced by its 5-star food hygiene rating and tailored programmes for children aged 0 - 5.
Services
Montessori Nursery
Pre-School
Holiday Club
Forest School
Healthy Eating Programme
Highlights and features
- Experienced Montessori-qualified staff with 15+ years in childcare
- Forest School sessions for outdoor, nature-based learning
- Healthy meals prepared daily by on-site chef using local produce
- Flexible funded childcare options for 24 year olds
- Strong parent partnerships with daily progress updates
Associations and certifications
- 5 Star Food Hygiene Rating Scheme
- Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS)
What people say
Happy memories
Excellent care
Loved nursery days
Amazing start
Supportive staff
Services
Montessori Nursery
Our Montessori Nursery provides child-led learning for ages 03, focusing on sensory exploration and foundational skills. Using authentic Montessori materials, we cultivate independence and curiosity in a calm, structured environment. The programme aligns with EYFS standards while respecting each child's unique developmental pace.
Pre-School
The Pre-School programme prepares 35 year olds for formal education through Montessori activities and EYFS-guided curriculum. Children engage in numeracy, literacy, and practical life skills while developing social confidence. Daily structured sessions ensure smooth transitions to primary school expectations.
Forest School
Forest School sessions promote nature connection and physical development through supervised outdoor exploration. Children engage in seasonal activities, woodland walks, and environmental projects to build resilience and teamwork skills in a natural setting.
Holiday Club
Our Holiday Club offers structured activities for reception to year 2 children during school breaks. Programmes include multi-sports, creative arts, science experiments, and themed events to keep children engaged and active throughout the holidays.
Healthy Eating Programme
The Healthy Eating Programme features chef-prepared meals using local ingredients, including vegetarian and vegan options. Children participate in food preparation and gardening activities to develop lifelong healthy eating habits and culinary skills.
People
Lisa
Manager
Lisa has 15 years of childcare experience, specialising in Early Years education. As manager and designated safeguarding lead, she oversees daily operations and implements Montessori practices to support children's individual development.
Rose
Deputy Manager
Rose progressed from apprentice to Deputy Manager, gaining comprehensive nursery experience. She coordinates activities and mentors staff to maintain high educational standards while leading the Pre-School classroom.
Mathew
EYFS Coordinator
Mathew has five years of nursery experience across all age groups. As EYFS coordinator, he ensures curriculum alignment with educational standards and leads the Holiday Club programme for school-age children.
Questions
What funding options are available for childcare?
We offer 15 hours EYFS funding for 2-year-olds and 30 hours for eligible 3–4 year olds, flexible across full days or stretched over 51 weeks.
How do you prepare children for school?
Our Pre-School curriculum combines Montessori methods with EYFS guidelines, focusing on literacy, numeracy, and social skills. We collaborate with local primary schools for smooth transitions.
What outdoor activities are available?
Children participate in daily Forest School sessions, local walks, and outdoor play. Activities include nature exploration, gardening, and seasonal projects in our secure grounds.
How do you involve parents in their child's learning?
We provide daily email updates, maintain learning journals, and hold biannual parents' evenings. Parents can attend events and contribute to their child's individualised learning plan.
What food hygiene standards do you follow?
We maintain a 5-star food hygiene rating. Chef Lisa prepares balanced meals daily using fresh, seasonal ingredients, accommodating all dietary requirements with parental consultation.
