Business Details
Trusted Forest School Nursery in Sheffield for Ages 6 Months to 4 Years
Established to provide a nurturing environment for children aged 6 months to 4 years, we specialise in Forest School principles that utilise nature to foster lifelong learning. Our approach prioritises safety, emotional security, and individualised support through a dedicated key person system. With a team of qualified practitioners, we deliver stimulating outdoor and indoor activities tailored to each child's developmental needs.Our reflective practice ensures continuous improvement, and we actively collaborate with families to enhance learning experiences. The nursery's commitment to holistic development is evident in our free-flow outdoor access, seasonal menus prepared by an in-house cook, and a curriculum that balances structured learning with child-led exploration.
Services
Forest School Programs
Outdoor Learning Activities
Childcare Services
Nature-Based Curriculum
Nutritious Meal Provision
Early Years Education
Seasonal Outdoor Adventures
Individualised Learning Plans
Forest School Training
Parent Partnership Programs
Highlights and features
- We implement Forest School principles with qualified practitioners
- Our key person system ensures personalised child development support
- We provide nutritious, freshly prepared meals daily
- Our outdoor learning environment operates in all weathers
- We maintain 15 years+ experienced leadership team
What people say
Boundless enthusiasm
Amazing staff
Felt comfortable
Great place
Love watching confidence grow
Services
Forest School Programs
Our Forest School programs utilise natural environments to develop essential life skills. Children engage in supervised outdoor activities that promote risk assessment, problem-solving, and physical development. Qualified practitioners facilitate learning through play, using woodland resources to teach ecological awareness and foster curiosity.
Outdoor Learning Activities
Daily outdoor sessions include bushcraft, wildlife observation, and seasonal exploration. Activities are designed to enhance motor skills, social interaction, and environmental understanding. Children learn fire safety, shelter building, and nature identification in secure woodland settings.
Childcare Services
We provide comprehensive childcare for children aged 6 months to 4 years. Our rooms cater to different developmental stages with age-appropriate resources. Key workers ensure individual attention while promoting independence and social skills through structured and free-play activities.
Nutritious Meal Provision
Our in-house cook prepares balanced meals using fresh ingredients following Children's Food Trust guidelines. We accommodate dietary requirements and allergies while teaching children about nutrition. Mealtimes encourage social development and healthy eating habits in a family-style setting.
Parent Partnership Programs
We maintain regular communication through parent evenings and progress updates. Families participate in social events and receive guidance for continuing learning at home. This collaborative approach ensures consistent support for each child's developmental journey.
People
Mhairi Walker
Owner
Former human rights lawyer turned Early Years Teacher and Forest School Leader. Took over Croft Corner in 2015 to preserve its legacy while introducing Forest School principles. Combines legal expertise with childcare passion.
Louise Hawson
Nursery Manager
Designated safeguarding lead with 11 years nursery management experience. Holds Level 3 NVQ and BA in Early Childhood Studies. Specialises in child development and seasonal woodland learning.
Rachel Hackett
Assistant Manager
15+ years childcare professional with expertise in under-twos development. Passionate about child-led learning and outdoor exploration. Holds extensive experience across all early years age groups.
Nicola Fletcher
Team Leader
Level 3 qualified practitioner with 7 years nursery experience. Specialises in toddler development and outdoor learning benefits. Committed to providing children's best start through nature-based education.
Rosie Smith
Nursery Cook
Level 3 childcare and Level 2 Food Hygiene qualified. Prepares nutritious meals daily while teaching children about healthy eating. Manages nursery pets and encourages food-related learning opportunities.
Questions
What age range do you cater for?
We accept children from 6 months to 4 years old, with dedicated rooms and activities tailored to different developmental stages.
How does Forest School benefit my child?
Forest School develops resilience, creativity, and problem-solving through nature-based learning. Children gain confidence through supervised risk-taking and outdoor exploration.
Are meals included in nursery fees?
Our free entitlement funding doesn't include meals, but we offer freshly prepared meals daily at additional cost. Dietary requirements are accommodated.
What qualifications do your staff hold?
All staff hold relevant childcare qualifications (Level 3 minimum) with specialist training in Forest School leadership, first aid, and safeguarding.
How do you support new children's transition?
Each child receives a dedicated key worker who builds a personal relationship with them and their family during the settling-in period.
