Business Details
Trusted Early Years Education in Chichester
Chichester Nursery has been dedicated to providing high-quality early years education for children aged 6 months to 5 years, fostering a nurturing environment where learning is child-centred and curiosity-driven. Our team of qualified teachers and experienced staff deliver the Foundation Stage Curriculum through a well-resourced, free-flow environment that encourages exploration, creativity, and sustained concentration. OFSTED inspectors have consistently praised our outstanding teaching quality, exceptional staff-child relationships, and the rapid progress made by children, including those requiring additional support.With over 15 years of leadership experience from our Executive Headteacher and a team passionate about early education, we prioritise individualised care, ensuring each child develops confidence, independence, and a lifelong love of learning. Parents frequently commend our attentive staff, stimulating activities, and the positive impact on their children's development, making us a trusted choice for families in Chichester.
Services
Nursery School
Up to 3s Nursery
Early Years Education
OFSTED-Accredited Programs
SEN Support
Highlights and features
- We are OFSTED-rated 'Good' for our outstanding teaching quality and child development outcomes.
- Our team includes qualified teachers with over 15 years of leadership experience.
- We provide a free-flow environment that encourages independent exploration and creativity.
- We offer tailored support for children with special educational needs (SEN).
- Parents praise our attentive staff and the positive impact on children's confidence.
Associations and certifications
- OFSTED
What people say
Amazing staff
Best possible start
Loves it
Exceptional support
Thriving education
Services
Nursery School
Our Nursery School provides structured early years education for children aged 3 to 5 years, following the Foundation Stage Curriculum. The free-flow environment encourages independent learning through play, with qualified teachers supporting social, emotional, and cognitive development. OFSTED inspectors have praised the outstanding teaching quality and children's exemplary behaviour.
Up to 3s Nursery
The Up to 3s Nursery offers a nurturing environment for infants and toddlers aged 6 months to 3 years. Our experienced nursery nurses focus on sensory play, early communication, and motor skills development. The program supports transitions to formal education while maintaining a strong emphasis on individual care and emotional security.
SEN Support
Our Special Educational Needs (SEN) support service provides tailored care for children requiring additional assistance. The SENCo coordinates individualised plans, working closely with parents and external specialists. OFSTED reports highlight the exceptional progress made by children with extra support in our inclusive environment.
OFSTED-Accredited Programs
All programs are delivered to OFSTED's 'Good' standard, with a focus on ambitious curriculum delivery and child-centred learning. Regular inspections ensure compliance with national early years frameworks, maintaining high standards in teaching quality, safeguarding, and child development outcomes.
Parent Engagement
We actively involve parents through regular newsletters, prospectus updates, and open communication channels. The nursery encourages home visits, parent-teacher meetings, and collaborative planning to ensure consistent support for each child's learning journey and developmental milestones.
People
Ruth Campbell
Executive Headteacher
With 15 years at Chichester Nursery and prior primary school experience, Ruth holds an NPQH qualification. She oversees nursery operations across multiple locations while maintaining her passion for early years education.
Clare Blanchard
Head of School
Clare has led as Head of School since 2018, specialising in early years education. With a background in primary teaching and NPQML qualification, she focuses on creating optimal learning environments for rapid child development.
Jess Davies
SENCo & Teacher
As Special Educational Needs Coordinator, Jess brings expertise from teaching in SEND schools and international voluntary work. She coordinates individualised support plans while teaching in our Specialist Support Centre.
Hannah Merrick
Teacher
Hannah has taught at the nursery for seven years after graduating from the University of Brighton. She specialises in early mathematics and expressive arts, previously supporting families at Chichester's Children and Family Centre.
Sophie Elsdon
Chair of Governors
Sophie serves as Chair of Governors and Local Authority representative, overseeing strategic direction. With extensive governance experience, she ensures the nursery maintains its high standards and community-focused approach.
Questions
What age range do you cater for?
We provide nursery education for children aged 6 months to 5 years through our Up to 3s Nursery and main Nursery School programs.
Is your nursery OFSTED-registered?
Yes, we are OFSTED-registered and were rated 'Good' in our most recent inspection for teaching quality and child development outcomes.
Do you support children with special needs?
Our dedicated SENCo provides tailored support for children with special educational needs, working closely with parents and external specialists to create individualised learning plans.
Can I access 30-hour funding?
Yes, we participate in the government's 30-hour free entitlement scheme. Applications require an eligibility code obtained before the August deadline for autumn term funding.
How do you involve parents?
We maintain regular communication through newsletters, parent meetings, and our prospectus updates. Our staff actively collaborate with families to support each child's learning journey.
