Business Details
14 Years
experience
Trusted Childcare & Early Education in Penrith
Established in 2012, we are a rural nursery located four miles from Penrith, offering childcare for children aged 3 months to 5 years. Our approach prioritises outdoor learning and natural curiosity, rooted in the Nature Gate philosophy developed over 20 years by founder Rachel Forster. We provide a home-from-home environment with highly qualified staff, Ofsted-rated 'Outstanding', and tailored support for individual development. Our facilities include refurbished indoor spaces and expansive outdoor areas for activities like Forest School. We prepare meals on-site with no refined sugar, reduced salt, and cater to all dietary needs.Our team holds paediatric first aid certifications and undergoes rigorous safeguarding training. We maintain a key-person system to ensure close family collaboration and operate under robust policies for child safety. Our pre-school curriculum aligns with the Early Years Foundation Stage, preparing children for school through play-based learning. We serve families in the Eden Valley and surrounding areas, combining countryside living with professional childcare expertise.
Services
Day Nursery
Pre-School Education
Forest School Program
Outdoor Learning Activities
Healthy Meal Provision
Special Educational Needs Support
Parent Partnership Programs
Safeguarding Services
Child Development Assessments
Nature-Based Curriculum
Details
- Year established: 2012
Highlights and features
- We offer 20+ years of childcare expertise with a nature-based learning approach.
- Our staff are fully qualified, with paediatric first aid and specialist training.
- We are Ofsted-rated 'Outstanding' for quality and safeguarding standards.
- Our meals are freshly prepared on-site with no refined sugar or excess salt.
- We provide individualised care through a dedicated key-person system.
What people say
Fantastic facilities
Amazing staff
Best nursery
Positive self-image
Excellent child-focused staff
Services
Day Nursery
Our day nursery provides full-time care for children aged 3 months to 5 years. We focus on sensory play, routine-building, and early development through structured activities. The environment combines homely comforts with educational resources to support foundational learning.
Pre-School Education
Our pre-school curriculum prepares children aged 3-5 for formal schooling. Activities include phonics, numeracy, and creative play, aligned with the Early Years Foundation Stage. We tailor lessons to individual interests and developmental stages.
Forest School Program
The Forest School program immerses children in nature-based activities like tree climbing, pond dipping, and animal care. This approach builds physical resilience, environmental awareness, and imaginative play in a secure outdoor setting.
Healthy Meal Provision
We prepare balanced meals on-site with no refined sugar or excess salt. Menus cater to dietary needs and allergies, promoting healthy eating habits. Children participate in cooking activities to engage with food preparation.
Special Educational Needs Support
Our staff includes specialists in special educational needs, providing tailored support for children with additional requirements. We collaborate with parents and external professionals to create inclusive learning plans.
People
Rachel Forster
Principal Manager
Founder with 20+ years in childcare, holding a BA in Child and Family Studies and Qualified Teacher Status. Leads with a focus on nature-based learning and family collaboration.
Donna-Marie Waugh
Nursery Manager
Holds an FD in Integrated Care and Education, with specialist roles in safeguarding and health and safety. Committed to child-centred care and staff development.
Karina Bird
Deputy Manager
CACHE Level 3 qualified with expertise in play-based learning and child development. Focuses on nurturing emotional resilience and creativity through tailored activities.
Steph Westgarth
Deputy Manager
Level 3 childcare qualified, specialising in effective teaching strategies and behaviour management. Promotes independence and social skills through structured play experiences.
Sian Hutchinson
Senior Nursery Practitioner
Level 3 child development certified, with a focus on sensory play and early literacy. Builds strong bonds with children to support their emotional and cognitive growth.
Questions
What are your opening hours?
We are open Monday to Friday, 7:45am to 6:00pm, 52 weeks a year.
What age range do you cater for?
We care for children from 3 months to 5 years old, with tailored programs for each developmental stage.
Are meals included in the fees?
Yes, we provide freshly prepared meals and snacks on-site with no refined sugar or excess salt.
How do you support children with special needs?
We have dedicated SEND specialists and create individualised plans in collaboration with parents and external professionals.
What qualifications do your staff hold?
All staff are fully qualified in childcare, hold paediatric first aid certificates, and undergo regular safeguarding training.
Is outdoor play part of the daily routine?
Yes, children engage in structured and free-play outdoor activities daily, including Forest School sessions.
