Business Details
26 Years
experience
Trusted Childcare Services in Hereford
Established in May 2000, Highmore Hedgehogs is a registered charity and non-profit nursery serving the Westfields community in Hereford. Our dedicated team provides high-quality, affordable childcare for children aged 18 months and over, operating within a bright, spacious environment that encourages exploration and learning. We prioritise flexible scheduling, with sessions available from 8am to 4pm and options for term-time or stretched care. Our play-based curriculum aligns with the Early Years Foundation Stage framework, offering diverse indoor and outdoor activities to support holistic development. We maintain a strong commitment to staff training and professional development, ensuring our team holds relevant qualifications and expertise.Parents are actively encouraged to engage with their child's learning journey through regular communication with keypersons and access to electronic learning journals. Our facility includes a large garden with views over Hereford racecourse, providing unique opportunities for outdoor play in all weather conditions. We adhere to rigorous assessment practices to track progress and collaborate closely with families to support continued learning at home. As a community-focused organisation, we aim to create a welcoming, inclusive environment where every child and family feels valued and supported.
Services
Childcare Services
Early Years Education
Flexible Sessions
Outdoor Play
Parental Involvement
Details
- Year established: 2000
Highlights and features
- We are a registered charity committed to affordable childcare
- Our staff hold relevant early years qualifications and attend regular training
- We offer flexible session times and 48-week annual operation
- Our outdoor play area provides unique learning opportunities in natural environments
- We use electronic learning journals for real-time parent communication
Associations and certifications
- Registered Charity (1148296)
Services
Childcare Services
We provide high-quality childcare for children aged 18 months and over in a safe, stimulating environment. Our sessions operate from 8am to 4pm with flexible start times and duration options. The service supports up to 30 children per session with qualified staff maintaining appropriate adult-to-child ratios.
Early Years Education
Our play-based curriculum follows the Early Years Foundation Stage framework, covering seven key learning areas. Children engage in structured activities and free-flow play with resources for creative development, physical coordination, and communication skills. Regular assessments track progress and inform individualised learning plans.
Flexible Sessions
We offer morning sessions from 8am-11:30am, afternoon sessions from 12:30pm-3pm or 4pm, and full-day options. Term-time availability and stretched care options accommodate different family needs. Parents can arrange custom schedules to suit their specific requirements.
Outdoor Play
Children access a large patio and garden area freely throughout the day, featuring views over Hereford racecourse. The outdoor space supports physical development and nature exploration with weather-appropriate play opportunities available year-round through our free-flow system.
Parental Involvement
We encourage parental participation through regular keyperson meetings and observation sessions. Electronic learning journals provide real-time updates on children's progress, allowing parents to contribute observations and photographs to their child's development record via a secure app.
People
Dawn Merriman
Manager
Qualified with a Foundation Degree in Early Years Education, Dawn leads our team with over 20 years' experience in childcare. She ensures our nursery maintains high standards through continuous staff development and community engagement initiatives.
Kelly Benjamin
Deputy Room Leader
Holding a Foundation Degree in Early Years, Kelly oversees daily operations and staff training. With extensive experience in childcare, she focuses on maintaining our play-based curriculum's quality and implementing innovative learning approaches.
Debbie Chidlow
SENCO/Nursery Practitioner
Debbie holds a NVQ/Cache Diploma Level 3 and specialises in supporting children with additional needs. She works closely with families and external agencies to ensure inclusive care and tailored learning experiences for all children.
Lauren Thompson
Assistant Room Leader
Qualified with QTS in Early Years and Primary Education, Lauren provides maternity cover while maintaining high educational standards. She focuses on creating engaging learning environments and supporting staff development through mentoring.
Sam Mills
Nursery Practitioner
Sam holds a NVQ/Cache Diploma Level 3 and contributes to our team's expertise in early childhood development. He specialises in outdoor learning activities and ensures children receive consistent care through regular staff training updates.
Questions
What age range do you accept?
We accept children from 18 months old up to school reception year age.
What are your operating hours?
We operate Monday to Friday from 8am to 4pm with flexible session options.
How do you track child development?
We use Tapestry electronic learning journals for real-time progress tracking and parent communication.
Are staff qualified?
All staff hold relevant early years qualifications and attend regular professional development training.
Can parents visit the nursery?
Yes, we welcome prospective parents to visit and observe our facilities at any time.
