Business Details
38 Years
experience
Outdoor Childcare Excellence in Chester & Frodsham
Established in 1988, Ashton House Nursery is a family-owned childcare provider rooted in the belief that outdoor learning fosters holistic child development. Our approach prioritises natural environments, enabling children to build resilience, self-belief, and character through hands-on experiences. With two Cheshire-based sites in Ashton Hayes and Frodsham, we offer year-round care for children from infancy to primary school age. Our Forest School sessions, integrated into daily life, cultivate curiosity and confidence within exceptional woodland settings.The nurserys ethos, shaped by founder Margaret Sheppard and continued by her children Jack and Anna, emphasizes freedom, adventure, and connection to nature. Our highly qualified team ensures each child thrives in a nurturing, family-oriented atmosphere, supported by balanced nutrition and innovative outdoor activities. We actively encourage parental engagement and maintain transparency in our practices, reflecting our commitment to trustworthiness and excellence in early years education.
Services
Outdoor Childcare
Forest School Sessions
Holiday Club
Healthy Eating Program
Bike Riding Lessons
Details
- Year established: 1988
Highlights and features
- Family-owned since 1988 with a legacy of outdoor childcare expertise
- Daily Forest School sessions in on-site woodlands
- Two natural, risk-assessed environments promoting physical development
- Highly qualified staff prioritising individual child growth
- Award-winning healthy eating program with locally sourced ingredients
What people say
Love of nature
Exceptional staff team
Best place for my child
Positive memories for life
Confidence-building environment
Services
Outdoor Childcare
Our outdoor childcare program immerses children in natural environments daily, fostering physical development and emotional resilience. Through unstructured play and guided exploration, children build confidence while connecting with nature. The curriculum integrates risk-taking opportunities to develop problem-solving skills and independence.
Forest School Sessions
Daily Forest School sessions in on-site woodlands provide hands-on learning experiences. Children engage in activities like den-building and fire-lighting to enhance teamwork and self-esteem. The program follows six core principles, ensuring holistic development aligned with Early Years Foundation Stage guidelines.
Holiday Club
Our Holiday Club offers structured activities for primary school-aged children during school breaks. With a focus on outdoor adventures and creative play, the program maintains continuity in learning and social development. Staff deliver varied daily schedules, including themed projects and physical challenges.
Healthy Eating Program
Nutritionists design balanced menus using locally sourced ingredients to support children's growth. The program educates children about food origins and healthy choices. Parents receive seasonal menu samples to reinforce good eating habits at home.
Bike Riding Lessons
Staff-led bike riding sessions develop balance and coordination using balance bikes. Children progress to pedal bikes without stabilisers through structured, confidence-building exercises. The program enhances spatial awareness and physical development in a safe environment.
People
Margaret Sheppard
Founder
Margaret Sheppard established Ashton House Nursery in 1988, driven by her passion for outdoor childcare. Her vision of nature-based learning continues to shape the nursery's ethos, inspiring her children Jack and Anna to carry forward the family legacy.
Jack Sheppard
Co-Owner
Jack Sheppard co-runs Ashton House Nursery, drawing on his childhood experiences in the nursery's natural grounds. He maintains the original vision for outdoor learning while overseeing operational excellence across both Cheshire sites.
Anna Sheppard
Co-Owner
Anna Sheppard shares responsibility for Ashton House Nursery's management, ensuring staff embody the family ethos. Her commitment to authentic outdoor education preserves the nursery's founding principles while supporting continuous improvement.
Questions
What age groups do you cater for?
We provide childcare for children from infancy to 11 years old across our Ashton Hayes and Frodsham sites.
Are meals included in nursery fees?
Yes, all meals and snacks are provided, following nutrition guidelines and using locally sourced ingredients.
Do you offer holiday care?
Our Holiday Club operates during school holidays for primary school-aged children at the Ashton Hayes location.
What qualifications do your staff hold?
Our team includes many highly qualified childcare professionals committed to the Ashton House outdoor learning ethos.
How do you support transition to primary school?
Forest School sessions and structured learning activities prepare children for school through confidence-building and social skills development.
