Business Details
OFSTED-Rated Good Childcare in Taunton
We are a small, fun and friendly Preschool based in the village of Churchinford, nestled within the Blackdown Hills Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty in Somerset. Our dedicated team prioritises individual attention, ensuring each child receives tailored support in a nurturing environment focused on social and educational development. We follow the Early Years Foundation Stage Curriculum, fostering unique learning through play, creativity, and outdoor exploration. Our personalised development folders track progress, accompanying children as they transition to school. As a registered charity (CIO) governed by parent Trustees, we maintain a community-driven ethos, combining professional expertise with heartfelt care.Our OFSTED-rated Good status reflects our commitment to safety, stimulation, and inclusive education, including tailored support for children with special educational needs. With qualified staff holding NVQs, first aid training, and safeguarding certifications, we blend experience with passion to create a joyful 'home from home' environment. Our flexible sessions accommodate diverse family needs, operating Monday-Thursday during school terms. We pride ourselves on transparent communication, welcoming parental involvement, and fostering lifelong learning foundations through engaging activities like gardening, music, and creative play.
Services
Early Years Education
Outdoor Learning
Flexible Sessions
SEN Support
Parental Involvement
Highlights and features
- OFSTED-rated Good for educational quality and care standards
- Personalised development plans for every child
- Experienced staff with NVQ qualifications and safeguarding training
- Flexible session options to suit family needs
- Dedicated SEN support with specialist practitioners
Associations and certifications
- OFSTED
What people say
Fantastic support
Friendly staff
Thriving environment
Confident child
Lovely setting
Services
Early Years Education
We deliver the Early Years Foundation Stage Curriculum through play-based learning. Our qualified staff create stimulating environments that foster creativity, social skills, and cognitive development. Each child receives individual attention through personalised learning plans.
Outdoor Learning
Our garden-based activities promote physical development and environmental awareness. Children engage in growing fruit and vegetables, exploring nature, and developing motor skills through outdoor play in a secure, natural setting.
Flexible Sessions
We offer adaptable attendance options including full days (8:30am-3:30pm), mornings (8:30am-12pm), lunch sessions (12pm-1pm), and afternoons (1pm-3:30pm). Sessions operate Monday-Thursday during school terms.
SEN Support
Our SENco practitioner provides tailored support for children with special educational needs. We work closely with parents and external agencies to create inclusive learning environments and individualised development strategies.
Parental Involvement
We encourage active parental participation through regular communication, development reviews, and family events. Our parent-led Trustees ensure community input in maintaining high standards of care and education.
People
Andrea Gibbs
Manager
NVQ-qualified manager with extensive local experience. Specialises in creative learning through play. Lives in Blackdown Hills with family and dog. Holds first aid and child protection certifications.
Helen Retter
Deputy Manager
Former primary school teacher with QTS qualification. Specialises in early years safeguarding. Lives locally with family. Enjoys gardening and creative activities with children.
Kelly Pike
Early Years Practitioner
SENco specialist with enthusiastic approach. Joined team in 2024. Lives locally with son and dog. Focuses on inclusive, child-centred learning environments.
Clair Burton
Early Years Assistant
Experienced team member since 2024. Natural affinity with children. Lives locally with family. Provides consistent, nurturing support during daily activities.
Naomi Sparks-Harris
Trustee
Parent representative on Trustee board. Ensures operational excellence through strategic oversight. Committed to maintaining high educational standards and community engagement.
Questions
What age children do you accept?
We accept children from 18 months until they reach statutory school age.
Are you OFSTED registered?
Yes, we are OFSTED-registered with number 2744600 and rated Good following our February 2023 inspection.
Do you offer flexible childcare hours?
We provide flexible sessions including full days (8:30am-3:30pm), mornings, afternoons, and lunchtime options Monday-Thursday during school terms.
How do you support special educational needs?
Our SENco practitioner provides tailored support, working with parents and external agencies to create individualised learning plans and inclusive environments.
What payment options are available?
Fees are payable termly. We accept Tax-Free Childcare contributions and accommodate government-funded childcare entitlements for eligible families.
