Business Details
16 Years
experience
Outstanding Forest School & Preschool in Harpenden
Established in 2010 by Jenny and Shaun Herbaut, Fingertips is a family-run preschool and nursery offering innovative early years education in Harpenden. Our dual-site setting combines traditional indoor learning with pioneering Forest School methodologies introduced in 2011, creating enriched environments for children aged 2-5. With a team of highly qualified educators, including certified Level 3 Forest School practitioners, we deliver a balanced curriculum that prioritises holistic development. Our approach integrates Scandinavian outdoor learning principles with the Early Years Foundation Stage framework, fostering accelerated growth in confidence, creativity, and academic readiness.We maintain a high adult-to-child ratio to address individual needs while promoting independence and social skills. Recognised by our Ofsted Outstanding rating, we provide flexible session options and accept government-funded childcare schemes. Our commitment to continuous professional development ensures we remain at the forefront of early childhood education, preparing children for successful transitions to primary school through play-based, nature-connected learning experiences.
Services
Preschool
Forest School
Woodland Nursery
Early Years Curriculum
Ofsted Outstanding Rating
Details
- Year established: 2010
Highlights and features
- Pioneered Forest School education in Harpenden since 2011
- Team includes qualified Early Years teachers and Level 3 Forest School practitioners
- Ofsted Outstanding rating for educational quality and child development
- Balanced approach combining EYFS curriculum with nature-based learning
- Flexible session options accommodating family needs and funding schemes
Associations and certifications
- Ofsted
What people say
Accelerated development
Happy children
Excellent staff
Nature-based learning
Confident learners
Services
Forest School
Our pioneering Forest School programme utilises Scandinavian educational principles in natural woodland settings. Children develop confidence, risk management skills, and environmental awareness through activities like whittling, fire lighting, and tree climbing. This holistic approach enhances communication, teamwork, and creative problem-solving abilities while aligning with Early Years curriculum objectives.
Preschool Program
Our structured preschool sessions combine indoor learning with outdoor exploration for ages 2-5. Qualified educators deliver tailored activities covering literacy, mathematics, science, and creative arts. Flexible morning and afternoon options accommodate family schedules while maintaining a high adult-to-child ratio for individualised attention.
Woodland Nursery
The Woodland Nursery provides full-day care with continuous access to indoor, garden, and forest environments. Children engage in structured teaching groups, free-flow play, and Forest School activities daily. The setting includes dedicated learning areas for art, construction, and literacy with extended hours available for working families.
Early Years Curriculum
Our curriculum follows the Early Years Foundation Stage framework while incorporating nature-based learning. Children explore designated activity zones covering science, mathematics, and creative arts. Individual learning plans respond to children's interests while promoting independence, social skills, and school readiness through play-based methodologies.
Ofsted Outstanding Rating
Recognised by Ofsted as Outstanding in all categories, our service maintains rigorous quality standards. Regular self-assessments and staff training ensure continuous improvement. The rating reflects our commitment to exceptional childcare practices, safeguarding procedures, and measurable positive outcomes in children's development and learning progress.
People
Jenny Herbaut
Head Teacher
With 20 years' experience in early years education, Jenny is a qualified Early Years Teacher and SENCO. She pioneered Forest School in Harpenden and holds advanced paediatric first aid and child protection qualifications. Her leadership focuses on holistic child development.
Shaun Herbaut
Forest School Team Leader
Level 4 Early Years Practitioner and certified Forest School Leader with specialist first aid training. Shaun develops outdoor learning programmes and ensures safety compliance. He contributes to staff training and curriculum development.
Ana Marsh
Team Leader
Experienced educator with Level 2 safeguarding and FGM awareness certifications. Ana manages daily operations, implements child protection policies, and leads staff development initiatives while maintaining direct engagement with children.
Hannah Libby
Key Person
Qualified teacher specialising in child safeguarding and protection. Hannah coordinates individual learning plans, maintains communication with parents, and delivers focused teaching sessions that support children's developmental milestones.
Elaine New
Supervisor
NVQ Level 3 qualified educator with expertise in food hygiene and child safeguarding. Elaine oversees daily activities, ensures compliance with health and safety standards, and supports staff training initiatives across both nursery sites.
Questions
What age groups do you accept?
We accept children aged 2-5 years across both our Preschool and Woodland Nursery settings.
Are you Ofsted registered?
Yes, we hold an Ofsted Outstanding rating following our 2017 inspection.
Do you offer funded childcare places?
We accept 2-year-old funding, 15-hour and limited 30-hour funded places for 3-4 year olds.
What are your operating hours?
Term-time only: 8am-4pm daily with optional extended hours until 5pm on weekdays.
How do you incorporate outdoor learning?
Our Forest School programme includes whittling, fire lighting, and nature exploration in woodland settings.
What qualifications do your staff hold?
All staff have paediatric first aid training, with many holding Level 3 Forest School qualifications and Early Years degrees.
