Business Details
11 Years
experience
Outstanding Childcare in Horsham
Established in November 2015, Catkins Nursery in Horsham provides high-quality childcare for children aged two to five years. Our purpose-built facility at Three Acres offers a homely, relaxed environment where traditional values meet high expectations. As an independent setting not part of a chain, we pride ourselves on maintaining personal relationships with every family we serve. Our team of highly qualified professionals, led by an owner-manager with over two decades of childcare experience, achieved an 'Outstanding' Ofsted rating in March 2018. We operate 50 weeks annually, offering flexible hours from 8am to 6pm on weekdays. Our unique approach combines hands-on management with creative learning experiences, including cooking activities and outdoor play.The nursery's exceptional catering service, developed by our owner with specialist food knowledge, ensures nutritious meals that engage children in food preparation. Our staff's passion for childcare creates a vibrant, family-like atmosphere where every child's individual needs are prioritised. We maintain transparency in operations, charging for bank holidays but offering alternative days to ensure fair value. Our commitment to quality has established us as a trusted provider in Horsham's early years education sector.
Services
Childcare Services
Healthy Eating Program
Creative Play Activities
Food Education
Outdoor Learning
Flexible Hours
Ofsted Registered Care
Details
- Year established: 2015
Highlights and features
- We achieved an 'Outstanding' Ofsted rating in our first inspection
- Owner-manager with 20+ years' experience directly oversees daily operations
- Children participate in cooking and food preparation activities
- Flexible 50-week calendar with bank holiday alternatives
- Purpose-built facility designed specifically for early years education
Associations and certifications
- Ofsted
What people say
Outstanding Ofsted rating
Creative play activities
Healthy eating program
Hands-on management
Secure outdoor space
Services
Childcare Services
We provide full-day childcare for children aged 2-5 years in a purpose-built facility. Our experienced team delivers structured learning through play while maintaining a homely atmosphere. The service operates 50 weeks annually with flexible hours from 8am to 6pm on weekdays, excluding specific holiday periods.
Food Education
Our unique catering program involves children in food preparation and cooking activities. We emphasize healthy eating through hands-on experiences with fresh ingredients. The nursery grows its own herbs and vegetables, teaching children about food origins while ensuring all meals meet strict nutritional standards.
Creative Play
Daily creative sessions include painting, messy play, and sensory activities designed to stimulate development. Children explore artistic expression through various materials while learning social skills. Our open-plan environment encourages imaginative play and collaborative learning experiences throughout the day.
Outdoor Learning
We incorporate outdoor activities into daily routines with gardening and nature-based learning. Children participate in growing vegetables and herbs, developing environmental awareness. The secure outdoor space supports physical development through structured play and exploration of natural elements.
People
Cathy Walden
Owner/Manager
NN.E.B. qualified with over 20 years' experience in childcare and education. Directly manages daily operations at Catkins Nursery, maintaining hands-on involvement in all aspects of care and education since establishing the setting in 2015.
Questions
What age range do you cater for?
We provide childcare for children aged two to five years old.
What are your operating hours?
We operate Monday to Friday from 8am to 6pm, 50 weeks per year.
How do you handle food allergies?
We maintain detailed records of dietary requirements and provide alternative meals when necessary.
Do you offer flexible payment options?
Fees are charged for 50 weeks annually with alternative days provided for bank holidays.
What qualifications do your staff hold?
Our team consists of highly qualified childcare professionals with relevant early years certifications.
Is there outdoor play space available?
Yes, we have a secure outdoor area with gardening facilities for children's use.
