Bright Horizons St Mary's Abingdon Day Nursery and Preschool

18 Marcham Road, Abingdon OX14 1AA
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9.6 91 Reviews
Bright Horizons St Mary’s has a skilled childcare team that take pride in the service they offer to Abingdon parents. They ensure that each child’s health and well-being is protected while achieving excellent early years learning through a range of play activities and related resources.

The nursery has large outdoor areas which allow free flow and encourage children to play and explore in a safe, stimulating space. The garden is also equipped to support all children's needs and abilities. A forest school area gives children plenty of opportunities to learn where their boundaries lie and what is and is not safe under adult guidance.

All staff are highly-trained and experienced in the challenges of an early years education.

The nursery received and Ofsted rating of 'Good' in August 2017.
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Care Provided by Bright Horizons St Mary's Abingdon Day Nursery and Preschool

  • Type of Service
  • Day Nursery – Privately Owned
  • Open all year
  • Full Day Care
  • Sessional Day Care
  • Person in charge
  • Gemma (Manager)
  • Number of Childcare Staff
  • 18
  • Total Places for Children
  • 114
  • Age Range
    • from 0 years 3 months
    • to 5 years 0 months
  • Opening Times
  • Monday 07:00-18:30
    Tuesday 07:00-18:30
    Wednesday 07:00-18:30
    Thursday 07:00-18:30
    Friday 07:00-18:30
  • When Closed
  • Bank Holidays & Christmas
  • Parking
  • Car park at the back of the nursery with easy access to the main building at the coach house.


Bright Horizons St Mary's Abingdon Day Nursery and Preschool Reviews (91)

Total of 91, showing 1-20
9.6

Bright Horizons St Mary's Abingdon Day Nursery and Preschool has a Review Score of 9.6 (9.613) out of 10, based on 18 reviews in the last 2 years. Over all time Bright Horizons St Mary's Abingdon Day Nursery and Preschool has 91 reviews.

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Overall Experience  Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5

Our little girl absolutely loves going to the BH nursery. Every day she has a bright smile when she sees her key worker. The staff go above and beyond to accommodate every child's need, treat them with kindness and respect. Our girl flourished and became more confident since she started the nursery,
we are very happy with our choice of the day care.

Reply from Amanda Barlow, The Parent Team at Bright Horizons St Mary's Abingdon Day Nursery and Preschool

Thank you for your kind review! We're so happy to hear your little girl is thriving and enjoys her time with us.


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Overall Experience  Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5

Very happy with this nursery, staff are always happy, warm and welcoming to parents and children alike. Communication from management and key workers is excellent, we have had a really positive experience overall and are so grateful to the whole team.

Reply from Amanda Barlow, The Parent Team at Bright Horizons St Mary's Abingdon Day Nursery and Preschool

Thank you for your lovely review! We're so happy to hear you've had a positive experience and that our team has made you feel welcome and supported.


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Overall Experience  Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5

We have nothing but great things to say about this nursery. Our little one has been attending since they were 1 year old and they are now 3.5 years old. Every staff member (key workers, other staff in the room and management) have all been fantastic and very supportive, not only with our little one
and supporting their education and development, but also with supporting us as first time parents.
As month later have gone by, our little ones key talks more and more about the hat they do at nursery/pre school and are always excited to go to nursery/pre school each day.
The app is really useful and enables us to have discussions about their learning or what they have eaten during the day (the variety of food is great).
We always feel at ease sending out little one to nursery/pre school and will be so sad to leave such a caring and nurturing environment.
Thank you so much.

Reply from Amanda Barlow, The Parent Team at Bright Horizons St Mary's Abingdon Day Nursery and Preschool

Thank you so much for your kind words! We're thrilled to hear that your little one has enjoyed their time with us and that our team has supported both their development and your journey as first-time parents. It's wonderful to know they look forward to nursery each day! The team will be sad to see you go.


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Overall Experience  Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5

Choosing a nursery was such a big decision for us and after looking around a few local nurseries, Bright Horizons St Mary's Abingdon Day Nursery and Preschool was our favourite and it certainly was the best choice! The staff are so welcoming, nurturing and caring towards both our child and ourselves!
From the moment we met the key worker and staff team, we knew our child would be in the best care. They offer so many fun, exciting opportunities for the children and we have seen such a difference in our child's development in such a short time. My child adores coming into nursery every day which certainly makes our lives so much easier. Highly recommend!

Reply from Amanda Barlow, Campaigns & Digital Marketing Executive at Bright Horizons St Mary's Abingdon Day Nursery and Preschool

Thank you for sharing your experience with us! We understand that choosing the right nursery is a significant decision and we're thrilled to hear that Bright Horizons St Mary's Abingdon Day Nursery and Preschool exceeded your expectations. Thank you for your recommendation.


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Overall Experience  Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5

I was recommended this nursery by a friend whose grandson has attended. From the start, they were friendly and reassuring. We really like our key worker, she keeps us updated both on the app and at the end of the day at pick-up. And just in general, the nursery team are great at keeping parents up to
date, whether they need to phone and check something or update on the app about issues or upcoming events. It’s a nice atmosphere every morning and my daughter is always happy to go in. We feel very lucky.

Reply from Amanda Barlow, Campaigns & Digital Marketing Executive at Bright Horizons St Mary's Abingdon Day Nursery and Preschool

Thank you so much for your positive feedback and for recommending us!


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Overall Experience  Overall Experience 4.0 out of 5

It’s always nerve-racking leaving your little one while you go to work but I’ve felt so at ease. I know I’m leaving him in safe hands and it just shows by the great relationship he has with his key worker. It’s made working a lot easier and it’s lovely to see his smiley face when I collect in the evenings.

Reply from Amanda Barlow, Campaigns & Digital Marketing Executive at Bright Horizons St Mary's Abingdon Day Nursery and Preschool

Thank you for sharing your experience. We understand the challenges of leaving your child, and we're glad to provide a safe and nurturing environment.


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Overall Experience  Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5

I would highly recommend Bright Horizons St Mary’s to any other parent. It is my second child attending the nursery the staff is lovely and very helpful. Always trying their best to accommodate our needs and ready to tackle any concern. Their curriculum is great and also do different activities with
the children. There is always something new for the children to do and come up with new activities/ideas to keep them motivated and engaged while learning new things.
They are always keen to develop and training is provided to the staff. My son is confident and happy when going into nursery regardless of the member of staff that greets us.
The nursery is also very inclusive and tries to support and help you in the case of a child with Special Needs.
Communication is also great, very responsive to emails, calls or app messages.
Overall very happy with St Mary’s Abingdon Bright Horizons.

Reply from Amanda Barlow, Campaigns & Digital Marketing Executive at Bright Horizons St Mary's Abingdon Day Nursery and Preschool

Thank you very much for your wonderful review! We greatly appreciate your recommendation and are thrilled to hear about your positive experiences with Bright Horizons St Mary’s Abingdon. It's heartwarming to know that your children are thriving in our care, and we're delighted that our staff's dedication and support have made such a positive impact on your family.


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Overall Experience  Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5

Our daughter settled really quickly and loves the team at the nursery. We also appreciate all the updates we get about her time there via the very useful mobile app. Communication about contractual matters, upcoming governmental support etc has been prompt and useful as well.

Reply from Amanda Barlow, Campaigns & Digital Marketing Executive at Bright Horizons St Mary's Abingdon Day Nursery and Preschool

Hello, 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 daughter started at St Mary's in Oct 2023 when she was 2.5 years old. She had been attending a childminder for 18 months prior to this point.
I was worried as to how she would settle but I needn't have been. All of the staff I've encountered have been lovely and friendly, particularly those in my
daughter's room and her key worker. She settled in very quickly and developmentally has come on in leaps and bounds. She loves to tell me how much fun she has had. I'm updated throughout the day on the app as to what she's eaten, how long she's slept and what she's been doing. I also get an update when I pick her up.
There are lots of different activities for her, plenty of time spent outside and independent play too.
She always gets excited when it's her nursery days so that is a clear sign of how much she loves it!

Reply from Amanda Barlow, Campaigns & Digital Marketing Executive at Bright Horizons St Mary's Abingdon Day Nursery and Preschool

Hello, thank you for sharing your positive experience! We're thrilled your daughter settled in quickly and has flourished in our care. We're glad to provide updates and create a nurturing environment she loves!


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Overall Experience  Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5

My daughter loves her nursery, her teachers, activities, food and everything else. She is always excited to go to school. I like how everyone is so supportive and helpful. I get a lot of helpful information from the office management. There is detailed information available on an app every day, with
food intake, nappy changes, toilet time and activities. I am so happy to find such a lovely place for my daughter, so she can play and learn all those important life skills.

Reply from Amanda Barlow, Campaigns & Digital Marketing Executive at Bright Horizons St Mary's Abingdon Day Nursery and Preschool

Hello, thank you for your 5-star review. Thank you so much for taking the time to share your positive feedback with us!


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Overall Experience  Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5

My daughter started going to Bright Horizons nursery from almost 18 months and she absolutely loves it!
She learns so many new things every day and always walks in the door with a smile!
The staff and management are excellent! Always helpful and accommodating.
I would highly recommend this nursery
and will definitely be sending my future children there!
Thank you Bright Horizons for looking after and taking good care of my child!

Reply from Amanda Barlow, Campaigns & Digital Marketing Executive at Bright Horizons St Mary's Abingdon Day Nursery and Preschool

Hello, thank you for sharing your positive experience! We're delighted your daughter enjoys our nursery and is thriving. Thank you for recommending us!


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Overall Experience  Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5

We have had two children at St Mary's. Lovely nursery. Room staff really care about the children they look after. They do lovely activities each week. Rooms are spacious and clean with lots of toys. The management team are really friendly and approachable and always very happy to help with any issues.
A very positive experience for us.

Reply from Amanda Barlow, Campaigns & Digital Marketing Executive at Bright Horizons St Mary's Abingdon Day Nursery and Preschool

Hello, thank you for your positive feedback! We're glad you've had a great experience with us.


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Overall Experience  Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5

My baby has just started with St Mary’s at 10 months. He’s my first child so was anxious how we were both going to cope with the new routine/life change. All the staff were supportive, helpful and kind. They all made our first experience so positive and both the baby and myself have settled in well.
They keep me updated throughout the day and my baby has come home happy and content. I recommend all the team highly and am so pleased we chose them.

Reply from Amanda Barlow, Campaigns & Digital Marketing Executive at Bright Horizons St Mary's Abingdon Day Nursery and Preschool

Hello, thank you for sharing your positive experience! We're thrilled to hear both you and your baby have settled in well.


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Overall Experience  Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5

The nursery provides a broad mix of activities, always managing to balance having fun with structured exploration and learning. It’s apparent that values and social interactions take front and centre, which has been felt across the various rooms. Communication both face-to-face at pick up and drop off
as well as through the app offers a good insight into the daily activities of the children as well as any wider issues/management topics to be aware of. Thanks to the whole team.

Reply from Amanda Barlow, Campaigns & Digital Marketing Executive at Bright Horizons St Mary's Abingdon Day Nursery and Preschool

Hello, Thank you for your detailed feedback! We're glad you appreciate our balanced approach to activities and our focus on values and social interactions.


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Overall Experience  Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5

My daughter loves being at St Mary’s, she is always very well cared for and is learning so much.
The staff are always putting on fun learning activities for the children to do and I am always surprised about the things she’s done that day that I wouldn’t think she would be able to do at her age.
I
love that they are always out in the garden getting fresh air and having fun.

Reply from Amanda Barlow, Campaigns & Digital Marketing Executive at Bright Horizons St Mary's Abingdon Day Nursery and Preschool

Hello, 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

Really good experience at this nursery. The staff have been welcoming and very supportive. My daughter clearly has a great time and has developed new skills from her time at nursery. Lots of thought goes into setting a routine and new daily activities. Good communication about what happens each day
via the app.

Reply from Amanda Barlow, Campaigns & Digital Marketing Executive at Bright Horizons St Mary's Abingdon Day Nursery and Preschool

Thank you for taking the time to leave us your review. We're delighted to hear about your positive experience with our nursery!


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Overall Experience  Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5

My son started St Mary’s in June, they have been fantastic at helping him settle in, he loves attending Nursery and is learning so much while having fun. His key worker always updates us after each session. Can not fault the nursery at all, we will also being sending our 2nd child next year when I return
to work as well as increasing the number of days our son attends.

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Overall Experience  Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5

Great nursery. My child has settled in great and loves going. Key workers have all been lovely. We're going to be sending our second child there next year and upping the days of our eldest as we think it's so beneficial for her. The nursery has great activities and outdoor spaces.

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Overall Experience  Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5

Bright Horizons St Mary's Abingdon have been absolutely amazing with all 3 of our boys. They have been understanding in every way possible and have helped the boys flourish in reaching their potential - we couldn't ask for more. The boys are so happy there and we are so very grateful for all the amazing
work that everyone at St Mary's do.

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Overall Experience  Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5

Absolutely wonderful nursery! My son has been going to Bright Horizons St Mary's Abingdon for 18 months and it’s been fantastic for him. It’s really helped his development and all the staff are brilliant. I’d recommend it to anyone!

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Current Review Score: 9.6 (9.613)

Overview of Review Score

The Review Score of 9.6 (9.613) out of 10 for Bright Horizons St Mary's Abingdon Day Nursery and Preschool is based on a) the Average Rating and b) the number of positive Reviews.

  • a) The Average Rating is 4.8 out of 5 from 18 Reviews in the last 24 months.

  • b) The score for the number of positive Reviews is 4.8 out of 5 from 18 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 4.824 for Bright Horizons St Mary's Abingdon Day Nursery and Preschool is calculated as follows: ( (180 Excellents x 5) + (34 Goods x 4) + (2 Satisfactorys x 3) ) ÷ 216 Ratings = 4.824

  • 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 4.789 Points relating to the number of positive Reviews for Bright Horizons St Mary's Abingdon Day Nursery and Preschool is based on 18 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 114 number of registered child places is 22.8. 18 Positive Reviews ÷ 22.8 = 0.789

  • 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

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Awards / Recognitions (5)

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Meet the Team (3)

Gemma

Gemma

Job Title: Nursery Manager

Gemma, the Nursery Manager, began her journey in childcare in 2009 as an unqualified member of the team following a career change. She quickly gained her Level 3 Qualification and worked her way up through the ranks before being promoted to Nursery Manager in July 2019.

Passionate about childcare, Gemma strives to create warm, nurturing, and enabling environments where children can develop and thrive. She feels incredibly fortunate to have such a wonderful team at St Mary’s to support her in this mission.

An adrenaline junkie, Gemma loves traveling and embracing adventure, having explored many countries solo. She also has a deep love for Christmas, enjoys a good boxset and is a dedicated foodie.

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Sian

Sian

Job Title: Deputy Manager

Sian, the Deputy Manager, has been a dedicated member of St Mary’s since 2012, progressing from apprentice to her current role. She spent many years as the Baby Room Leader and loved every moment of it.

Her passion has always been working with young children, supporting them through their early years, which she believes are the most crucial stages of development. She takes great pride in knowing she has played a part in helping children on their journey.

Outside of work, Sian enjoys visiting different places with her family, going shopping and traveling on holidays. She loves spending time with family and friends, dining out and exploring zoos and museums.

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Liene

Liene

Job Title: Deputy Manager

Liene, the Deputy Manager, has been working at St Mary’s since November 2018. She began her journey as a Nursery Assistant, successfully completing her Level 3 qualification before being promoted to Room Leader. After leading the Over Two’s room, where she developed new skills and embraced new challenges, she earned a promotion to Deputy Manager in 2023.

Liene’s favorite aspect of childcare is witnessing children grow and develop, reaching new milestones and building strong bonds with both them and their parents.

Outside of the nursery, she enjoys looking after her nephew, shopping, traveling and socialising with family and friends.

... Read more

Frequently Asked Questions about Bright Horizons St Mary's Abingdon Day Nursery and Preschool

What is the Age Range of Children that Bright Horizons St Mary's Abingdon Day Nursery and Preschool accepts?

Bright Horizons St Mary's Abingdon Day Nursery and Preschool accepts Children aged from 0 years 3 months to 5 years 0 months.

What Days & Hours is Bright Horizons St Mary's Abingdon Day Nursery and Preschool Open?

Bright Horizons St Mary's Abingdon Day Nursery and Preschool is open: Monday 07:00-18:30, Tuesday 07:00-18:30, Wednesday 07:00-18:30, Thursday 07:00-18:30, Friday 07:00-18:30.

How many Children does Bright Horizons St Mary's Abingdon Day Nursery and Preschool have capacity for?

Bright Horizons St Mary's Abingdon Day Nursery and Preschool has capacity for a total of 114 Children.

How far is Bright Horizons St Mary's Abingdon Day Nursery and Preschool to the centre of Abingdon?

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