From ethos to environment, there are lots of things to think about when you’re choosing a nursery for your child. You’ve probably mapped all of the local nurseries by proximity, but have you considered the benefits of a school-based nursery VS a traditional standalone setting?
The early years are a crucial time for development and nursery experiences can shape lifelong attitudes to learning. While standalone nurseries remain a popular choice, more and more parents are now considering school-based nurseries for the distinct advantages they offer.
With the government set to roll out a new school-based nursery initiative from September 2025, there’s never been a bigger spotlight on the pros of children starting their educational journey in an enriched, school-led environment. If you’re currently weighing up your nursery options, read on.
Learning led by teachers
One of the major benefits of a school-based nursery is the quality of teaching. Unlike many standalone nurseries, school-based settings often have qualified teachers leading the early years provision. This means your child benefits from a stronger educational foundation from day one.
With highly qualified staff and a strong teacher-led approach, children are supported in all areas of development, from early literacy and numeracy to personal, social, and emotional growth.
Squirrels Nursery in Deal, Kent, is part of well-renowned independent school Northbourne Park. A term-time setting for children aged 2-4, Squirrels offers Free Early Education Funded Hours for those eligible, making the added benefits of independent education more accessible.
The early years provision at Northbourne Park’s Squirrels Nursery is headed up by Nicole Marsh, BA Ed (Hons). “We firmly believe that children deserve the best possible start in life, with effective and caring adult support to fulfil their own potential. A secure, safe and happy setting ensures that each child’s unique needs are met, fostering a strong foundation for lifelong learning. Having experienced, qualified teachers helps us provide the best possible care and education.” She says.
A child-centred approach
School-based nurseries often take a more child-centred approach to early years education because they are closely aligned with the ethos and values of the wider school. This creates a nurturing, consistent environment where each child is supported as an individual from the very start of their learning journey.
Unlike many traditional stand-alone nurseries, school-based settings are typically guided by experienced early years educators working within an educational framework rather than a childcare model. This allows for a more responsive approach, where activities are shaped around children’s interests, questions and developmental needs. With an emphasis on curiosity, exploration and independence, children are encouraged to take the lead in their learning while being gently guided and supported by skilled staff.
Exceptional facilities and outdoor learning
School-based nurseries often come with access to facilities that go far beyond what a standalone nursery might offer. From music suites to school libraries, children enjoy a breadth of experiences typically reserved for older pupils.
Outdoor learning is another huge plus. At settings like Northbourne Park School’s Squirrels Nursery, nature plays a central role. The school’s magical rural location and idyllic rolling grounds allow children to engage daily with outdoor play and nature-based learning, rain or shine.
Nicole Marsh comments: “Our rich learning environment enables us to nurture the children’s growth inside and out. Designated indoor spaces are designed to support the usual range of hands-on activities, role play and creative tasks, and our ‘Puzzle room’ providing activities to build on problem solving skills and share a love for books. Our ‘Construction room’ fosters small world play and imaginative building opportunities. The garden and woodlands provide opportunities for exploration and for the children to connect with nature, whilst the bike track and climbing frames promote physical activity and co-ordination. Specialist facilities for French, Sport and Music add that extra dimension for the children’s full development.”
Specialist lessons and experiences
Another standout feature of a school-based nursery experience is access to specialist lessons and wider enrichment opportunities. Even the youngest children can experience subjects like music and French, as well as benefit from visiting teachers and immersive activities such as school performances, seasonal events, and cultural experiences.
This early exposure to a broad, exciting curriculum gives children confidence, builds communication skills and sparks interests that may last a lifetime.
Smooth transitions and school readiness
Another A significant advantage of school-based nurseries is the continuity of care. Children are already part of the school community, which can ease the transition into Reception and beyond. Familiar surroundings, known teachers, and shared routines help reduce anxiety and build confidence.
This seamless progression into the next stage of education is especially valuable for developing independence, communication, and emotional resilience.
“The transition from Squirrels Nursery to Reception class is seamless, thanks to the opportunities for staff to work across age groups and get to know our children so well. The school’s dedication to pastoral care and our core values fosters the emotional and social development essential for children as they progress from pre-school into Reception. There is no sense of ‘starting big school’ as the children move next door to a teacher they already know so well!” Says Nicole Marsh.
Older children leading the way
One of the key advantages of school-based nurseries is the opportunity for younger children to interact regularly with older peers, particularly in settings that are part of a Pre-Prep. This mixed-age environment naturally supports the development of communication and social skills, as older children model language, behaviour and routines, helping to guide and inspire the younger ones.
Children form friendships across age groups and learn from one another in a way that feels organic and inclusive. In smaller school communities, every child is truly known and valued as an individual, and this strong sense of belonging fosters confidence, empathy and a deeper sense of connection from the earliest years.
Being part of the school community
Being part of a school means even the youngest children have opportunities to get involved in wider school life. From music and French lessons to school performances, celebration assemblies, and whole-school events like sports day or summer fairs.
These enriching experiences foster communication skills, cultural awareness, and a sense of identity within a broader community. Children don’t just prepare for school. They are already in it.
Final thoughts
While standalone nurseries can provide quality care, school-based nurseries offer something unique: a holistic, child-centred start to education within a consistent, nurturing school community. With strong links to the next stage of learning, access to specialist staff and facilities, and opportunities for meaningful social interaction across age groups, school nurseries lay strong foundations for both academic and personal development.
For many families, school nurseries offer the best of both worlds: the warmth and attentiveness of early years care, combined with the structure, expertise and continuity of a school setting.
This is a sponsored post created in collaboration with Northbourne Park School, an independent day and boarding school for boys and girls aged 2 – 13 in Deal, Kent.
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