Business Details
46 Years
experience
Trusted Early Education & Childcare in Newtownabbey
Ashgrove Nursery School has been dedicated to early childhood education since 1980, providing a nurturing environment for pre-school children aged 3 to 4. Our approach combines structured learning with child-led play, fostering independence and curiosity. With 10 qualified staff members, we prioritise individual development through innovative methods like LEGO Therapy and mental health resilience training. We maintain strong partnerships with parents and the local community, ensuring each child receives tailored support.Our purpose-built facility in Newtownabbey, Northern Ireland, offers indoor and outdoor resources designed to stimulate sensory exploration and holistic growth. Recognised for excellence in care and education, we prepare children for primary school while celebrating their unique learning journeys. Our teams expertise, spanning decades, ensures a foundation of trust and professionalism that families rely on.
Services
Nursery Education
Pre-School Programs
Child-Led Play
Parent Partnerships
Outdoor Learning
Technology Integration
Maths Development
Creative Expression
Social Skills
Mental Health Support
Details
- Year established: 1980
Highlights and features
- We have 31 years of experience in early childhood education.
- Our team includes 10 qualified professionals dedicated to child development.
- We implement a child-led play approach to foster natural learning.
- We work closely with parents to support each child's development.
- Our staff are trained in innovative therapies and mental health resilience programs.
What people say
Amazing little boy
Confidence growth
Love and care
Outstanding in every area
Approachable staff
Services
Nursery Education
Our nursery education program focuses on holistic development through play-based activities. Children engage in sensory exploration, social interaction, and structured learning to build foundational skills. Tailored to ages 3-4, it prepares them for primary school while nurturing curiosity and confidence.
Child-Led Play
Child-led play encourages independence by letting children choose activities that spark their interests. This approach fosters creativity, problem-solving, and emotional growth. Staff guide experiences to align with educational goals while respecting individual learning styles.
Parent Partnerships
We prioritise collaboration with families to support each childs progress. Regular communication, shared decision-making, and home-school activities ensure consistent development. Parents receive updates on milestones and strategies to reinforce learning at home.
Outdoor Learning
Outdoor learning promotes physical activity and environmental awareness. Children explore gardens, engage with nature, and participate in hands-on tasks like planting. These experiences enhance motor skills, teamwork, and appreciation for the natural world.
Mental Health Support
Our staff are trained in building mental health resilience in young children. Through targeted activities and communication strategies, we address emotional needs early. This support helps children manage feelings, build relationships, and develop a positive self-image.
People
Mrs N. Cruickshank
Principal
Mrs Cruickshank (B.Ed) leads Ashgrove Nursery School with a focus on child-centred education. Her expertise in early years development drives innovative practices, ensuring a nurturing environment that prioritises both learning and emotional wellbeing.
Questions
What age range does Ashgrove Nursery School cater for?
We accept children aged 3 to 4 years old, providing pre-school education tailored to their developmental needs.
How does the nursery support child-led learning?
Our approach lets children choose activities based on interests, guided by staff to ensure educational value and skill development.
Are meals provided for children?
Children bring packed lunches from home; we provide a safe, supervised environment for eating and hydration.
How can parents get involved?
We encourage parental involvement through regular communication, shared decision-making, and home-school collaboration activities.
What safety measures are in place?
We follow strict safeguarding policies, with trained staff and secure facilities to ensure children’s wellbeing at all times.
What happens during school holidays?
Our school holidays align with local education authority schedules, with closures communicated in advance for planning purposes.
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