Business Details
24 Years
experience
Trusted Childcare in Shapwick | The Old School Nursery
Established in 2002, The Old School Nursery in Shapwick provides a nurturing environment where children develop foundational skills for lifelong learning. Our approach combines structured education with exploratory play, supported by a team of 25 qualified professionals, including specialists in music, art, gymnastics, and activism. With a focus on continuity of care through four-day staff schedules, we ensure consistent relationships between caregivers and children.Our facilities include purpose-built gardens, sensory spaces, and access to rural exploration, complemented by an online learning journal for parental engagement. We maintain rigorous safety standards aligned with Ofsted, PHE, and DFED guidelines, while our all-inclusive fee structure covers meals, nappies, and specialist activities.
Services
Childcare Services
Early Years Education
Specialist Activities
Outdoor Learning
Nutrition Provision
Details
- Year established: 2002
Highlights and features
- We provide continuity of care with staff working four-day weeks for consistent caregiver relationships
- Our all-inclusive package covers meals, nappies, and specialist activities
- We employ 25 qualified staff including specialists in music, art, and gymnastics
- Our outdoor learning environment includes two gardens and regular countryside excursions
- We maintain Ofsted-compliant safety standards with regular parental communication through Tapestry
What people say
Safe, secure and loved
Delicious home cooked food
Excellent special needs support
Wonderful outdoor learning
Knowledgeable, dedicated staff
Services
Childcare Services
Our childcare provision supports children aged 0-5 through structured routines and individualised care. Qualified staff implement developmentally appropriate activities while maintaining consistent caregiver relationships. The service includes daily handovers and online progress tracking through Tapestry.
Early Years Education
We deliver Early Years Foundation Stage curriculum through play-based learning. Specialist teachers enhance educational outcomes in music, art, and physical development. Our approach fosters curiosity and prepares children for school transition.
Specialist Activities
Music, art, gymnastics, and environmental activism sessions are led by qualified specialists. These activities develop creativity, physical coordination, and social awareness through hands-on experiences and project-based learning.
Outdoor Learning
Children explore two dedicated gardens and surrounding countryside. Outdoor activities include sensory play, environmental projects, and physical development through all-weather excursions using purpose-built equipment.
Nutrition Provision
We provide three freshly cooked meals daily with snacks, meeting nutritional guidelines. Our kitchen accommodates dietary requirements while teaching children about healthy eating through interactive food experiences.
People
Ewa Praschma
Owner & Director
With 25 years' experience in early years education, Ewa founded the nursery in 2002 after working as a nanny and childminder in the USA and UK. She holds a Business Development Diploma.
Natalie Adamson
Manager
Qualified to Level 6 in early years education, Natalie has managed nursery operations since 2020, ensuring high standards of care and educational provision across all age groups.
Pru
Deputy Manager
An Early Years Teacher with extensive experience, Pru has worked at the nursery since 2009, overseeing staff development and maintaining educational standards in line with statutory frameworks.
Kiri
Arts Specialist
NVQ3 qualified with a background in art education, Kiri has developed the nursery's creative curriculum since 2006, integrating artistic expression across early learning activities.
Frances
Special Educational Needs Co-Ordinator
With seven years' special education experience, Frances supports inclusive practices and implements individualised strategies for children with additional needs, ensuring equal access to nursery activities.
Questions
What age range do you cater for?
We provide childcare for children aged 0-5 years through our graduated room system.
How do you ensure child safety?
We maintain Ofsted compliance with robust risk assessments, staff training, and secure premises access.
What's included in your fees?
Our all-inclusive rates cover meals, nappies, specialist activities, and outdoor learning resources.
How do you communicate with parents?
We use Tapestry online journals, daily handovers, and regular progress updates for consistent communication.
Do you offer flexible hours?
We provide full-day, half-day, and session-based options to accommodate different family schedules.
What qualifications do your staff hold?
Our team includes Level 3-6 qualified practitioners, with specialists in music, art, and special educational needs.
Reviews (4)
Elizabeth James
Apr 19, 2020
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Both my grandsons went to the Old School Nursery. I would not dream of recommending any other local nursery! They were so well cared for, understood, loved, lunch time food excellent, staff superb. From tiny babies to when they are ready to leave for school each child is nurtured and leaves as a well rounded little person. Thanks to Ewa and her excellent staff.
Nikky Marshall
Jun 12, 2019
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I used to go to this school and enjoyed coming everyday as we were a small village school with only 14 students We learned a lot and got support from the teachers and the people who live in the village. Also we got to meet Dr who crew and cast when they used our school when they filmed in the village
Sara-Jane Ladums
Mar 01, 2019
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My daughter went her from 8 months old and it honestly is the most special place ever! The staff are incredible and there is such a beautiful family feel. I could not recommend this nursery enough
Ewa Praschma
Nov 18, 2015
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The Old School Nursery is a very special place where your precious child will be nurtured, encouraged and most of all loved. What an incredible start to their journey though life.
