Business Details
26 Years
experience
Your Trusted Childcare Partner in Hexham
St Mary's Nursery Hexham has been providing high-quality childcare since October 2000, established by Judith Baxter and the late Fr Martin Deegan. We adhere to the Early Years Foundation Stage framework, ensuring children aged 0-5 receive tailored education through play and hands-on experiences. Our team includes qualified teachers and nursery nurses who prioritise individual development while maintaining a strong focus on safeguarding and inclusivity. We actively support children with additional needs through specialist training and collaboration with external agencies.Our facilities feature two accessible floors with dedicated spaces for different age groups and activities. We maintain a Food Hygiene Rating of 5 and hold Northumberland County Council's Healthy Pathways Awards for promoting healthy eating. Security measures include camera systems and strict visitor protocols to ensure child safety. Our out-of-school clubs offer extended care with diverse activities for school-age children. We operate as a non-profit organisation, guided by our founding ethos of creating a family-like environment for the community.
Services
Childcare 0-5 Years
Early Years Education
Additional Needs Support
After-School Clubs
Holiday Clubs
Details
- Year established: 2000
Highlights and features
- We have over 20 years of experience in early years childcare
- Our team includes qualified teachers and Level 3 nursery nurses
- We hold Ofsted 'Good' ratings and Food Hygiene 5 awards
- We provide specialist support for children with additional needs
- Our facilities include secure, accessible spaces for all age groups
Associations and certifications
- Ofsted
- Northumberland County Council Healthy Pathways Awards 1&2
- Food Hygiene Rating Scheme 5
Services
Childcare 0-5 Years
We provide comprehensive childcare for children aged 0-5 following the Early Years Foundation Stage framework. Our qualified staff create tailored learning experiences through play and structured activities. Each child receives individual attention in a safe, nurturing environment designed to promote development and social skills.
Additional Needs Support
We offer tailored support for children with additional needs through trained staff and external agency collaboration. Our team implements individualised care plans while ensuring full participation in nursery activities. We maintain open communication with parents and specialists to maximise each child's development potential.
After-School Clubs
Our after-school clubs provide supervised care for school-age children with diverse activities. We offer transportation from local schools and access to sports facilities. Sessions include structured play, homework support, and age-appropriate recreational activities in a secure environment.
Holiday Clubs
We operate holiday clubs throughout school breaks with engaging activities for children aged 4-11. Our programmes include outdoor play, creative projects, and themed events while maintaining safeguarding standards. The clubs provide continuity of care during term breaks and holidays.
Healthy Meal Provision
Our on-site cook prepares balanced meals using locally sourced ingredients, including fresh meat from Hexham butchers. We follow healthy eating guidelines while accommodating dietary requirements. Children participate in menu development through tasting sessions to encourage healthy food choices.
People
Judith Baxter
Nursery Manager
Judith Baxter established St Mary's Nursery Hexham in 2000 with a BTEC National Diploma in Nursery Nursing and BA Hons in Children & Young People. She leads safeguarding as DSL and oversees daily operations with 20+ years of childcare experience.
Brian Baxter
Director
Brian Baxter serves as a director with financial expertise from his career as a retired financial consultant. He contributes strategic oversight to the nursery's non-profit operations alongside Judith Baxter.
Fr Martin Deegan
Founding Visionary
The late Fr Martin Deegan was the inspirational founder who transformed the Old Catholic Club into St Mary's Nursery Hexham. His vision for community childcare continues to guide the nursery's family-centred approach.
Questions
What age range do you cater for?
We provide childcare for children aged 0-5 years and operate after-school and holiday clubs for school-age children up to 11 years.
Do you support children with additional needs?
Yes, we have specialist-trained staff and work with external agencies to provide tailored support for children with disabilities or medical needs.
What are your Ofsted ratings?
St Mary's Nursery Hexham has consistently received 'Good' ratings in Ofsted inspections, reflecting our commitment to high-quality childcare standards.
How do you ensure child safety?
We maintain secure premises with camera systems, controlled access, and strict visitor protocols. All staff hold safeguarding qualifications and first aid training.
What food hygiene standards do you meet?
We hold a Food Hygiene Rating of 5 (Very Good) with Northumberland County Council and prepare nutritious meals using locally sourced ingredients.
What are your opening hours?
We operate Monday to Friday from 7:30am to 6:00pm, 51 weeks a year, closing only for bank holidays and one week at Christmas.
