Bright Horizons Harwell Day Nursery and Preschool

Curie Avenue, Harwell Int'l Business Centre, Didcot OX11 0QQ
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9.9 61 Reviews
  • Bright Horizons Harwell Day Nursery and Preschool, Didcot
A loving and inspiring Nursery in Harwell

Harwell Day Nursery and Preschool is located close to the A34 and the B417 on the Harwell Oxford Science Campus, making it ideally situated for employees situated on the campus and local residents. With great transport links between Didcot Parkway and the campus, commuting to the nursery couldn't be easier. The nursery welcomes all families in the area, supporting and caring for children from the age of 3 months to 5 years.

The nursery boasts dedicated homerooms for each age group including a separate baby unit. The large outside play areas ensure that children's learning and exploration continue outside, whatever the weather.

Bright Horizons' unique Healthy Hearts and Minds activities provide inspirational and engaging learning experiences using the innovative and well-established Boogie Mites active music-making programmes.

With all-inclusive fees, which means less to pack on a busy morning, the onsite meals are prepared with nutrition in mind. From healthy lunches and snacks to the chosen branded nappies and wipes included in the fees.

The nursery has been awarded an Ofsted rating of ‘Good’ (SEPT2018) for their commitment to high quality childcare and education.

The staff are excited to be part of every child’s journey and look forward to showing the nursery and all their facilities during a personal tour.

Care Provided by Bright Horizons Harwell Day Nursery and Preschool

  • Type of Service
  • Day Nursery – Privately Owned
  • Open all year
  • Full Day Care
  • Sessional Day Care
  • Person in charge
  • Alison (Nursery Manager)
  • Number of Childcare Staff
  • 38
  • Total Places for Children
  • 94
  • Age Range
    • from 0 years 3 months
    • to 5 years 0 months
  • Opening Times
  • Monday 07:30-18:00
    Tuesday 07:30-18:00
    Wednesday 07:30-18:00
    Thursday 07:30-18:00
    Friday 07:30-18:00
  • When Closed
  • Bank Holidays

Bright Horizons Harwell Day Nursery and Preschool Reviews (61)

Total of 61, showing 1-20
9.9

Bright Horizons Harwell Day Nursery and Preschool has a Review Score of 9.9 (9.913) out of 10, based on 27 reviews in the last 2 years. Over all time Bright Horizons Harwell Day Nursery and Preschool has 61 reviews.

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Overall Experience  Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5

Excellent. My Daughter has been at the Nursery for 3+ years. It is faultless. The staff are excellent, caring and fun, and the nursery has a fantastic culture. Superb facilities too. One very happy daughter and parents

Reply from Amanda Barlow, The Parent Team at Bright Horizons Harwell Day Nursery and Preschool

Thank you for your wonderful review! We're so happy to hear that your daughter has had such a great experience over the years. It means a lot to know you value our team, culture and facilities.


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Overall Experience  Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5

My child has been going to this nursery since he was 10 months old and the level of care has been outstanding. The team have been really supportive throughout his journey with them. The activities available have helped him develop his skills and also his curiosity which has been great to see. The outside
space, especially, has been a favourite due to the numerous exercises they can do out there! Thank you all.

Reply from Amanda Barlow, The Parent Team at Bright Horizons Harwell Day Nursery and Preschool

Thank you for your kind review! We're so glad to hear that your child has had such a positive experience since joining us at 10 months old. It's wonderful to know our supportive team and engaging activities have fostered his development and curiosity, especially in our outdoor space.


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Overall Experience  Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5

We have both of our 2 children go through Harwell Bright Horizons since we moved to the area 3 years ago. Since that time we have been immensely impressed at the organisation, activities, communication and most importantly the quality of the people at Harwell Bright Horizons. Not only do the children
love to go (including the older one who likes to pop in and see his nursery staff friends) but the team make an effort with little things like bird music in reception in the morning which lifts the spirits, free fruit for rushed mums and dads who skipped breakfast and fun gatherings with parents.
We will really miss the whole team at Harwell as our youngest leaves next month and would recommend it to anyone.

Reply from Amanda Barlow, Campaigns & Digital Marketing Executive at Bright Horizons Harwell Day Nursery and Preschool

Thank you for your kind words! We're delighted to hear that you and your children have had such a positive experience at Harwell Bright Horizons. It's wonderful to know that both your children enjoyed their time and that you appreciated the little touches we provide. We'll miss having your family with us and truly appreciate your recommendation.


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Overall Experience  Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5

From the moment you walk in, you can tell that Bright Horizons in Harwell has a lovely feel to it. Bright, spacious, and airy, a warm welcome from all staff members at all times, and evidence of lots of really lovely activities for the children everywhere you look. We have been so happy leaving our
daughter in the care of the staff there, who all seem to know how she is and what her needs are. They care for her so well. Activities are really thoughtfully prepared, with lots of natural materials and engaging themes to keep children stimulated and interested. The food is fantastic, and we really appreciate the daily app updates and photos that offer both reassurance and joy as we see her grow and develop. If you are worried about sending your child to nursery, or if you feel at all nervous, come here!

Reply from Amanda Barlow, Campaigns & Digital Marketing Executive at Bright Horizons Harwell Day Nursery and Preschool

Thank you for your wonderful review! We're thrilled to hear that you've had such a positive experience at Bright Horizons Harwell. Thank you for recommending us to others your feedback means a lot to us!


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Overall Experience  Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5

Our son has been attending since he was 11 months old and loves it.
The staff are amazing at helping him develop and we can see the changes in him and how much he enjoys his coming each day.
The managers are fantastic and if we’ve ever had any questions they are always helpful.

Reply from Amanda Barlow, Campaigns & Digital Marketing Executive at Bright Horizons Harwell Day Nursery and Preschool

Thank you for sharing your feedback! We're delighted to hear that your son has been enjoying his time at the nursery.


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Overall Experience  Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5

Both my kids attend the nursery and they are thriving.
The staff are absolutely lovely and helpful. You can tell they care about the children and their families and always try to support us as best as they can.
As a parent is very reassuring to know that you leave your kids in a place where they're
loved and looked after very well.

Reply from Amanda Barlow, Campaigns & Digital Marketing Executive at Bright Horizons Harwell Day Nursery and Preschool

Thank you for your five-star feedback and for sharing your experience with us.


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Overall Experience  Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5

My child is so happy here! It’s a great environment to start her education path. The staff are amazing at looking after the children and teaching them how to be independent! The nursery is always clean well-organized and managed!
It’s a great nursery!

Reply from Amanda Barlow, Campaigns & Digital Marketing Executive at Bright Horizons Harwell Day Nursery and Preschool

Thank you for your wonderful review! We're delighted to hear that your child is happy at our nursery and that you find it to be a great environment for her education.


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Overall Experience  Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5

Excellent standard of care, support, and education provided. The staff have impressed me with their capability, from care providers to senior leadership. Facilities are excellent and our child loves being there.

Reply from Amanda Barlow, Campaigns & Digital Marketing Executive at Bright Horizons Harwell Day Nursery and Preschool

Thank you for your five-star feedback and for sharing your experience with us.


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Overall Experience  Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5

We have 2 children at Bright Horizons Harwell Day Nursery and they both absolutely love being there. They have developed fantastic bonds with their key workers, who keep us up to date with their progress via updates on the app and with feedback at the end of the day. Even the grandparents have commented
on how insightful the feedback is on the app! The management team are always personable, helpful and professional, as are the staff members, and I feel genuinely supported (which is lovely as a mother of 3 young children!). We have done baby sign language with all of our children, but this is the first nursery we have been to where the staff also use signing/makaton and it is so helpful. Our youngest (aged 15months) actually signs for his key worker in the morning! The team really listen to the individual needs of the children and put so much effort into their care. Thank you!

Reply from Amanda Barlow, Campaigns & Digital Marketing Executive at Bright Horizons Harwell Day Nursery and Preschool

Thank you for sharing your wonderful experience with us! We're thrilled to hear that both of your children love being at Bright Horizons Harwell Day Nursery. Building strong bonds with key workers is crucial, and we're delighted that they keep you updated on your children's progress through the app and daily feedback.


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Overall Experience  Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5

A fabulous nursery, my daughter has been there since 9 months old and is now in the preschool room. She learns so much, always has a varied day with plenty of playtime and I have never worried that she isn't being looked after and supported when upset or needing a cuddle.

Reply from Amanda Barlow, Campaigns & Digital Marketing Executive at Bright Horizons Harwell Day Nursery and Preschool

Thank you for your glowing review! We're thrilled to hear that your daughter has been thriving at our nursery.


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Overall Experience  Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5

I’m incredibly impressed and happy with Bright Horizons Harwell Day Nursery and Preschool. All the staff in Acorns are incredibly kind, caring and really make my daughter welcome, she loves going to nursery. Every day she smiles excitedly when her carer greets her at the door and when I collect her
she doesn’t want to leave! The staff are really accommodating of my requests and preferences and don’t make me feel bad about asking. They keep me really well-informed and always have time to discuss things when I drop-off or pick-up my daughter. All the creative activities and messy play are great and the food is very well-balanced.

Reply from Amanda Barlow, Campaigns & Digital Marketing Executive at Bright Horizons Harwell Day Nursery and Preschool

Thank you for sharing your wonderful experience with Bright Horizons Harwell Day Nursery and Preschool! We're thrilled to hear that your daughter feels so welcomed and enjoys her time at nursery.


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Overall Experience  Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5

My daughter has been at this nursery for nearly a year and a half, seeing her grow in confidence and be genuinely excited to go in her room is so lovely. The communication from the nursery staff is fantastic, there’s always a warm welcome on drop-off and pick-up. Highly recommend.

Reply from Amanda Barlow, Campaigns & Digital Marketing Executive at Bright Horizons Harwell Day Nursery and Preschool

Hello, thank you so much for your positive feedback! Thank you for recommending us.


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Overall Experience  Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5

The staff at Bright Horizons Harwell Day Nursery and Preschool are so caring and supportive. They care for every child as an individual. Both of our children have loved being there and as parents have always found the staff helpful.

Reply from Amanda Barlow, Campaigns & Digital Marketing Executive at Bright Horizons Harwell Day Nursery and Preschool

Thank you for your five-star feedback and for sharing your experience with us.


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Overall Experience  Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5

Our son started attending this nursery in July after taking him out of another nursery due to some concerns.
My husband and I were anxious after our experience at his previous nursery and our son’s confidence had been knocked. We cannot praise the manager and her team (particularly Saplings) more
highly after making this as smooth a transition as possible. Our Son has regained his confidence and enjoys attending here.
Staff seem to have a genuine care for the children and are always very warm and welcoming. Best decision we made and highly recommend it.

Reply from Amanda Barlow, Campaigns & Digital Marketing Executive at Bright Horizons Harwell Day Nursery and Preschool

Thank you so much for your heartfelt review! We are thrilled to hear that your son's transition to our nursery has been smooth and positive and that he has regained his confidence and is enjoying his time with us. We look forward to continuing to nurture and support your son's growth and development at our nursery.


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Overall Experience  Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5

My son has special needs, including learning and physical disability, as well as having medical needs. We applied for an EHCP and Additional funding. The nursery not only supported us every step of the way, but they also facilitated his/our needs without question - they are always so child-centred and
flexible. I feel like we are a team working things out together and they care as much as we do. I wouldn't be able to leave him anywhere else!

Reply from Amanda Barlow, Campaigns & Digital Marketing Executive at Bright Horizons Harwell Day Nursery and Preschool

Thank you for your glowing review for Bright Horizons Harwell Day Nursery and Preschool. We're thrilled your son has developed new skills and enjoys nursery days. We're here to support his growth and look forward to continuing the journey together.


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Overall Experience  Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5

Our son has been at Bright Horizons Harwell for 18 months and we are delighted with it. We attended another Bright Horizons provision and moved areas so moved nursery - this is so much better than his previous provision within the same network. The care he has received has been exemplary. I would wholeheartedly
recommend them. They have taken the time to get to know him, us and his big sister and managed his complex medical needs including several surgeries. The staff are all 'grown-up's' and leave you feeling always confident that they will meet his needs well.

Reply from Amanda Barlow, Campaigns & Digital Marketing Executive at Bright Horizons Harwell Day Nursery and Preschool

Thank you for your five-star feedback and for sharing your experience with us.


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Overall Experience  Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5

Our daughter has been in the nursery since 2021. We are very pleased with the quality of care, education and facilities. The staff are quite knowledgeable and plan interesting educational activities that entertain children.

Reply from Amanda Barlow, Campaigns & Digital Marketing Executive at Bright Horizons Harwell Day Nursery and Preschool

Hello, Thank you for taking the time to share your valuable feedback with us. We're thrilled to hear your daughter is thriving at our nursery.


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Overall Experience  Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5

My youngest who is 2, and his older sister have both attended Harwell Bright Horizons. The entire team are great, led by the manager who is a wonderful nursery manager. They always have the time to chat or discuss any concerns. The app is also great for keeping track of their learning journey and photos
being shared. I would highly recommend this nursery.

Reply from Amanda Barlow, Campaigns & Digital Marketing Executive at Bright Horizons Harwell Day Nursery and Preschool

Thank you so much for your positive feedback and for your recommendation. It means a lot to us.


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Overall Experience  Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5

We are so grateful to have found such a brilliant nursery so close to home when we had to change nurseries due to moving. The staff are so warm towards the children. We have had two children here over the last two years and both have grown in confidence and loved attending Bright Horizons.

Reply from Amanda Barlow, Campaigns & Digital Marketing Executive at Bright Horizons Harwell Day Nursery and Preschool

Thank you for your five-star feedback and for sharing your experience with us.


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Overall Experience  Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5

All staff are so kind and caring, and the facilities are wonderful. The garden space and outdoor equipment look like so much fun, and the staff provide lots of great activities to keep the children engaged and learning. Our daughter enjoys every day at preschool!

Reply from Amanda Barlow, Campaigns & Digital Marketing Executive at Bright Horizons Harwell Day Nursery and Preschool

Thank you for your five-star feedback and for sharing your experience with us.


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Current Review Score: 9.9 (9.913)

Overview of Review Score

The Review Score of 9.9 (9.913) out of 10 for Bright Horizons Harwell Day Nursery and Preschool is based on a) the Average Rating and b) the number of positive Reviews.

  • a) The Average Rating is 4.9 out of 5 from 27 Reviews in the last 24 months.

  • b) The score for the number of positive Reviews is 5.0 out of 5 from 27 positive Reviews in the last 24 months.

Detailed Breakdown of Review Score

The maximum Review Score for a Day Nursery is 10, which is made up from the Average Rating of Reviews (maximum of 5 points) and the Number of Reviews (maximum of 5 points) in the last 24 months:

  • a) 5 Points are available for the Average Rating from all Reviews in the last 24 months.

    The Average Rating of 4.913 for Bright Horizons Harwell Day Nursery and Preschool is calculated as follows: ( (295 Excellents x 5) + (28 Goods x 4) ) ÷ 323 Ratings = 4.913

  • b) 5 Points are available for the number of Positive Reviews in the last 24 months. A Positive Review is defined as any Review with an 'Overall Experience' of '4' or '5' (out of a max rating '5').

    The 5 Points relating to the number of positive Reviews for Bright Horizons Harwell Day Nursery and Preschool is based on 27 positive Reviews in the last 24 months and is calculated as per below:

    The 5 points available are broken down as follows:

    • i) 4 points are available for the first 10 Positive Reviews in the last 24 months; 3 points for the first Positive Review, and then 0.125 Points for each of the next four Positive Reviews and then 0.1 Points for the next five Positive Reviews. (1st = 3.000, 2nd = 0.125, 3rd = 0.125, 4th = 0.125, 5th = 0.125, 6th = 0.100, 7th = 0.100, 8th = 0.100, 9th = 0.100, 10th = 0.100) 3 + 0.125 + 0.125 + 0.125 + 0.125 + 0.1 + 0.1 + 0.1 + 0.1 + 0.1 = 4

    • ii) 1 point is available for the number of Positive Reviews reaching 20% of the number of registered child places in the last 24 months. If this number is partially reached, then that proportion of 1 point is given. eg a Day Nursery registered for a maximum of 50 child places has to reach 10 Positive Reviews to receive 1 point, if it has 7 reviews it will receive 0.7 points. 20% of the 94 number of registered child places is 18.8, which has been reached with 27 Positive reviews. Points = 1

  • When a Review is submitted by someone who has previously submitted a Review, only the latest Review will count towards the Review Score.

  • If a Day Nursery does not have a review in the last 24 months, then it will not have a Review Score.

Child Vacancies

Please Contact Us for Latest Vacancies

Awards / Recognitions (4)

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Meet the Team (2)

Alison

Alison

Job Title: Nursery Manager

Joined: 2018

Child care has always been a passion since I was a teenager, I qualified with my NNEB in 1992 and was a uniformed nanny for many years before I completed my NVQ level 3 and worked in the nursery environment as a Nursery Nurse. Over the years of working with Bright Horizons I have been lucky enough to have had senior roles with flexible working to support my own children through school.


I joined the Senior Harwell team in 2015 and became Manager in November 2018. Providing inspiring education and care at Harwell is a drive and passion of mine, it's wonderful to see the children thrive in our nursery environment and support busy working families, seeing many of them progress through the nursery and flourish in school.


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Sarah

Job Title: Deputy Manager

Joined: 2018

I qualified with a BTEC in Childcare and Development in July 2004 and then studied to complete my Foundation Degree in Early Years in July 2017. For 11 years I worked in nursery environments with a variety of age ranges before relocating from Stock-on-Trent to Oxfordshire in 2015 where I joined a nursery as their preschool room leader until joining the Harwell Senior Team as Third in Charge and Room Leader of Saplings (toddlers) in April 2018.


Frequently Asked Questions about Bright Horizons Harwell Day Nursery and Preschool

What is the Age Range of Children that Bright Horizons Harwell Day Nursery and Preschool accepts?

Bright Horizons Harwell Day Nursery and Preschool accepts Children aged from 0 years 3 months to 5 years 0 months.

What Days & Hours is Bright Horizons Harwell Day Nursery and Preschool Open?

Bright Horizons Harwell Day Nursery and Preschool is open: Monday 07:30-18:00, Tuesday 07:30-18:00, Wednesday 07:30-18:00, Thursday 07:30-18:00, Friday 07:30-18:00.

How many Children does Bright Horizons Harwell Day Nursery and Preschool have capacity for?

Bright Horizons Harwell Day Nursery and Preschool has capacity for a total of 94 Children.

How far is Bright Horizons Harwell Day Nursery and Preschool to the centre of Didcot?

3.1 mile(s) as the crow flies, distance by road may be significantly further.