The Old School Nursery (Shapwick) Ltd

West Street, Shapwick, Wimborne Minster DT11 9LB
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10 111 Reviews
  • The Old School Nursery (Shapwick) Ltd, Wimborne Minster
The Old School Nursery (Shapwick) Ltd provides a loving space for children to spend their early years, with childcare professionals that are passionate about giving children the best start in life.

All children are supported to become confident and independent individuals by a team of highly trained and dedicated professionals.

The nursery aims to provide children with all the necessary social and developmental skills needed to progress onto formal education at primary school.

The Old School Nursery encourages a parent partnership to ensure the children are nurtured with the same love and care that is provided by the parents at home.

Care Provided by The Old School Nursery (Shapwick) Ltd

  • Type of Service
  • Day Nursery – Privately Owned
  • Open all year
  • Full Day Care
  • Sessional Day Care

Good to Know

  • Owner
  • Ewa Praschma
  • Person in charge
  • Ewa Praschma (Director)
  • Number of Childcare Staff
  • 25
  • Total Places for Children
  • 59
  • Age Range
    • from 0 years 3 months
    • to 5 years 0 months
  • Opening Times
  • Monday 07:45-18:00
    Tuesday 07:45-18:00
    Wednesday 07:45-18:00
    Thursday 07:45-18:00
    Friday 07:45-18:00
  • When Closed
  • Bank Holidays & 1 week at Christmas

Funding & Fees Guide for The Old School Nursery (Shapwick) Ltd

  • Please call the Nursery for their current fee structure


The Old School Nursery (Shapwick) Ltd Reviews (111)

Total of 111, showing 101-111
10

The Old School Nursery (Shapwick) Ltd has a Review Score of 10 (9.969) out of 10, based on 27 reviews in the last 2 years. Over all time The Old School Nursery (Shapwick) Ltd has 111 reviews.

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Overall Experience  Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5

The Old School Nursery is a nurturing, fun and safe place for the children to learn and flourish. Our son has made such pleasing progress in all areas of his development and he has very secure relationships with the all staff and his friends. The staff are consistently helpful, knowledgable and caring
towards all the children and ensure that the environment is adapted to suit the needs of all. All of the activities are clearly well planned, resourced and age appropriate. The online Tapestry journal is informative and a great record of learning through observations and photographs.
The children have a fun filled day from start to finish with yummy home-made food, plenty of learning through free play and some structured sessions. The outside area provides an exciting large space for them to enjoy exploring the large equipment, run off some steam and get their hands dirty!
Our 3 year old son is always so happy when he arrives at the nursery and we feel content leaving him there while we are away at work. It is such a homely and loving environment and there are always plenty of hugs to go around :)

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Overall Experience  Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5

I highly recommend The Old School Nursery. I was very nervous about my daughter starting nursery as she was only 8 months old, however the nursery girls were fantastic and completely put me at ease. My daughter loves going to the nursery and gets excited in the morning when I drop her off. The nursery
regularly keeps me updated with pictures and details on how she is progressing with Tapestry, which is great!

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Overall Experience  Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5

My 2 1/2 year old loves The Old School Nursery, his words to me when I pick him up are always '' Mummy want to stay at nursery ''.
It's a great nurturing environment the staff are fantastic, all so friendly , they all take a real interest in your child and how they are developing.
The hours are
also really good for working mums and the cooked meals mean you know your child is well fed if you are working long days.
I really could not recommend this nursery enough.

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Overall Experience  Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5

My son has been at the Old School Nursery for a year now and thoroughly loves it - I have trouble getting him out when it's time to go home! He has settled in really well and has thrived in the stimulating and caring environment. The activities, staff, food and outside space are all fab! It's such peace
of mind that when I leave him, I know that he's being really well nurtured and looked after. I cannot recommend this nursery highly enough.

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Overall Experience  Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5

It's difficult to express how wonderful this nursery is. My two little boys attend this nursery and absolutely love it.
The location is beautiful and the children are often taken out into the village to engage with the beautiful surroundings.
The staff are excellent. It is like being part of an extended
family. Staff know all of the children at the nursery and are so friendly and welcoming to the children and parents alike. They are supportive, loving and caring. They provide full and informative feedback at the end of the day to let you know how your child has been and what they have been up to. The online tapestry system also allows you to see what they have been doing and the staff will frequently post photos, videos and developmental updates on your child.
The activities they provide for the children are fun and varied and they have such a busy and active day. They also provide a lot of outdoors play which my children love.
My 4 year old will soon be leaving to start at 'Big School' and although an exciting time I know he will miss nursery so much!!! But I also know that they have helped develop and care for him and have assisted in making him a happy, polite and sociable little boy.

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Overall Experience  Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5

My son Charlie has attended the Old School Nursery in Shapwick since he was 9 months old, he is now 3 and about to start in the pre-school room come September. Charlie absolutely loves it there!


I found it really tough leaving my little man, but after a few settling in sessions at the nursery, I

knew we had made the right decision. Open from 7:45 – 6, with everything included (wipes, nappies, formula, snacks etc) they make it very easy for busy parents.


The Director (which sounds a bit scary) is actually really hands on with the children, she knows everybody’s name. It is clear that she has extremely high standards with a true passion for looking after babies and young children.


The staff are amazing, always friendly and happy to see each child in the mornings, and they give you a full handover at the end of each day. The children eat delicious home cooked food, with a carefully balanced menu which changes frequently. They are also understanding and patient with children who may not be quite as adventurous about trying new things (my little boy wouldn’t eat sandwiches at one point, so they would give him crackers instead)


The nursery is in a beautiful village setting, and has a fabulous playground which the children play in as much as possible. There are lots of different toys, balls, bikes, a sand pit, a vegetable garden and even a pirate ship to play in. Every day the children do something different, whether they are inside or out. Charlie especially loves role play, cafés or shoe shops are his favourites!


I would highly recommend the Old School Nursery to anyone looking for childcare in the Blandford / Wimborne area.


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Overall Experience  Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5

We have a daughter currently at The Old School Nursery and our 5 year old was there from 9 months until school. We really could not have asked for more from the staff. They have cared so well for the girls who have both loved it. My youngest has a milk allergy which the nursery have accommodated without
any problem. The staff are caring and experienced and always have the time to feedback on what the kids have been up to as well as sending regular pictures and updates through the tapestry. The only tears we ever get are when they have to go home. My Daughter is welcomed by a hug every morning and enjoys the fantastic home cooked food in a social environment with her peers. Provided it isn't raining the children get outdoor fresh air every day in a really well equipped play area (separate areas for the youngest groups). The only rules are pack wellies or sun cream and don't panic if they get messy - it is because they are having fun. The varied activities and plenty of messy play mean the children are never bored and always sleep well after! Designated sleep areas mean the children who need a nap get some peace.
I trust the staff implicitly with the care of my children and would not hesitate in recommending the Old School Nursery to anyone. As a mother the decision to send our kids to nursery when I went back to work wasn't easy but knowing they were happy made it so much more bearable. Thank you Old School Nursery.

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Overall Experience  Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5

Both my children have attended The Old School Nursery and we all love it! The staff are so kind and caring and the children have a fun-filled day with such a large variety of activities.


The outside space is fantastic with a great playground area, sandpit, gardening area and lots of toys. The meals

provided are healthy and both my children have enjoyed hearty helpings with seconds always available!


The key workers give lots of information at the end of each day and a log of the children's achievements with photos is also done. The children are also taken out on wellie walks around the beautiful local countryside and my son particularly likes the horses opposite! Numerous craft and messy activities are undertaken and there are also cosy areas for reading a book. I would highly recommend the nursery.


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Overall Experience  Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5

Both my boys currently attend this nursery. My eldest is 26months, my younger 5 months. It is incredibly difficult to place your tiny baby in the care of others, but both my boys started at 4 months old and couldn't have been better cared for. My eldest has developed so much confidence and has a fantastic
imagination from all the role play games. Old School Nursery is a truly special place.

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Overall Experience  Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5

A wonderful nursery!


Moved our child here from another nursery nearby that was no good. This one is a real gem! The staff are lovely - caring, skilled and really good at handling all the usual issues of growing up (from tantrums, feeding themselves, to potty training!). They are well organised, the

day is structured and when the weather is dry there is large outside play area. If you are looking for a good nursery this one is wonderful! Don't be put off by the location which for some is a little out of the way - it's the staff and quality of care that your child will get that matters most!

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Overall Experience  Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5

My daughter has been at the Old Station Nursery since February this year and she loves every second she's there. She has so much fun and gets to do so many activities...she especially loves messy play and water play and constantly comes home looking like she's had an amazing day including shoes full
of sand! I'm so pleased we chose this nursery and my daughter would go everyday if we allowed her. She now eats food she wouldn't try before and always has a delicious home cooked hot meal. She's made some wonderful friends and continues to develop into a very confident and outgoing little girl. I especially love the tapestry journal and the thorough handover at the end of the day hearing of how much of a fun day she's had. I'm sure our new little baby that's on the way will join there too.


Thanks again Old Station Nursery and the wonderful staff


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Current Review Score: 10.0 (9.969)

Overview of Review Score

The Review Score of 10 (9.969) out of 10 for The Old School Nursery (Shapwick) Ltd is based on a) the Average Rating and b) the number of positive Reviews.

  • a) The Average Rating is 5.0 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 4.969 for The Old School Nursery (Shapwick) Ltd is calculated as follows: ( (314 Excellents x 5) + (10 Goods x 4) ) ÷ 324 Ratings = 4.969

  • 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 The Old School Nursery (Shapwick) Ltd 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 59 number of registered child places is 11.8, 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 (6)

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Meet the Team (12)

Ewa

Ewa Praschma

Job Title: Owner

Joined: 2002

After 7 years working as a nanny and child minder in the USA and UK I decided I wanted to work in a Nursery environment gaining qualifications in Early Years. It soon became apparent that the Nurseries I worked in did not provide the very best quality childcare and I decided to open my own. After gaining a Diploma in Business Studies in 2002 I opened the doors to The Old School Nursery with three children and six full time staff.


We have now created a ‘home away from home environment.’ where your precious little ones will learn, grow, flourish and be loved and cherished. With 25 amazing, highly experienced and qualified staff we will do all we can to support you and your child during your journey with us.


I am incredibly proud of what we do at The Old School Nursery and the difference we make to the lives of children at such an important stage of their development.


Denise

Denise Andrews

Job Title: Nursery Assistant

Joined: 2016

I have worked with children for many years; as a childminder when my own were small and more recently in a residential school for young children with behavioural and associated learning difficulties.


I really enjoy working in Early Years as it's so rewarding helping children to build new skills and gain confidence in the world around them.


I enjoy ski-ing, walking, have horses of my own and cooking.


I believe The Old School Nursery is a great learning environment for the children. They are encouraged in all the activities and they are happy, confident little individuals.


Melanie

Melanie Lamb

Job Title: Nursery Educator and Gymnastic Teacher

Joined: 2016

I am a mum of two grown up children ( one of whom I work with!). Previously I was a childminder for 15 years and I also worked as a qualified gymnastics coach with children including preschool age. I am NVQ Level 2.


I love running and have competed in quite a few events! I also love walking and spending time with my family.


I love working with children and seeing how much they grow and develop during their time with us.


The Old School Nursery is a special place to work because it is one big family, everyone supports each other and the children are truly loved and nurtured by all the staff.


Jessica

Jessica Vick

Job Title: Nursery Assistant

Joined: 2015

I have successfully completed my NVQ Level 2 in Child Care.


I started as an apprentice and have been lucky to work in all the rooms and all age groups.


I love working with children because I love watching them grow, develop and become little people during their time at the nursery; seeing them take their first steps is very special.


I believe the Old School Nursery is like one big family. All the staff are so friendly and it's a warm, happy environment to work in; all the children are loved and cared for.


Vanessa

Vanessa Galvin

Job Title: Cook

Joined: 2017

I have worked at the nursery since 2017.

I really enjoy cooking healthy and nutritious food for the children.
I have two young children who keep me busy and I enjoy walking and Tai Chi.


I like working with children because it is so rewarding and watching them grow and learn is a real privilege.


Working at The Old School Nursery is a joy because of the commitment and genuine care the team give each and every child.


Pru

Pru Denney

Job Title: Early Years Teacher and Deputy Manager

Joined: 2013

I am a Level 6 Practitioner and I work in my EYT role within our busy Pre School room.


I love the outdoors and enjoy time walking the dog, at the gym and socialising with friends and family.


I enjoy working in child care as every day is varied and fun! It is a pleasure watching them grow into 'little independent people' and knowing that I played an important part in this.


I believe the Nursery is a very special place because of the staff!! Everyone is friendly, happy and makes the setting a fun and welcoming place to be!


Annabel

Annabel de Souza

Job Title: Nursery Practitioner and Room Supervisor

Joined: 2008

I have worked with children for 8 years and recently achieved my Foundation Degree in Early Years and I aspire to become an Early Years Professional.


I enjoy circuit training and socialising with friends and family.


I like working with children because it's rewarding, I can have a positive impact in their formative years and help them develop and grow holistically.


Working at The Old School is like being one big family. Everybody works together and supports each other just like a family! Every day is unique and special as the next.


Debbie

Debbie Hannam

Job Title: Nursery Cook

Joined: 2014

I have worked in Child Care since 1998 and completed my NVQ Level 2 in a rural day nursery. Since moving into the village I wanted to try something different and was fortunate to gain the position of Nursery Cook at The Old School Nursery. I now have my Health and Hygiene Certificate Level 2.


I enjoy walking, pilates and I love looking after my two grandchildren who I have the pleasure of seeing on a regular basis.


I enjoy working as the Nursery Cook as it is challenging and different; I enjoy seeking new ways to adopt healthy food and menus and engaging the children with this.


I believe The Old School Nursery is a unique place to work because it's a lovely caring environment! The children are well looked after, the staff work extremely hard and their commitment to their roles and responsibilities is wonderful!


Kiri

Kiri Froud

Job Title: Nursery Educator and Art Teacher

Joined: 2006

I am a Level 3 qualified practitioner and supervisor and have enjoyed working with all the age groups.


Outside of work I like to keep active at the gym, enjoy walking our dog and spending quality time with my daughters, family and friends.


I love the rewarding aspect of working with children. It is a privilege to build relationships with the children and their parents and give them the best start in nursery life.


The Old School is a unique place to work as it is set in a quiet and beautiful location, surrounded by animals and it's a wonderful environment to visit with the children.


We have a very close team and most of the staff have been here for many years; it is a lovely nursery.


Gemma

Gemma Steel

Job Title: Nursery Practitioner and Room Supervisor

Joined: 2009

I am NVQ Level 3 qualified in Child Care and Education. I am the Room Supervisor for the 18months to 2 year olds which definitely keeps me on my toes!!


I have a little boy whom I love to spend time with and he enjoys a day at Nursery too.


I love working with children as it is a special role to be part of their education and development in their time at Nursery.


I believe the Old School Nursery is a unique place as it is a home from home environment with incredible care from very lovely professionals.


Elizabeth

Elizabeth Holman

Job Title: Office Administrator

Joined: 2011

I have enjoyed working at the Old School in the role of Office Admin for over 5 years.


When I'm not at nursery I enjoy spending time with my family, cycling and walking in our beautiful county with our energetic spaniel!!


My son was one of the first 'special beans' to join the nursery in its opening year and he has lots of happy memories!


I enjoy being part of a happy and motivated team and use my organisational skills to ensure the smooth running of the office.


I believe the Old School Nursery is a very unique place because of the genuine love and individual care given to each child and the fantastic staff.


Verina

Verina Cutler

Job Title: Early Years Educator and Music Teacher

Joined: 2016

I have been working in Child Care since 2002 when the youngest of my own three children went to school. I ran a Pre School for 7 years in Milton Abbas during which time I completed my Foundation Degree in Early Years.


I have a passion for music; I play many instruments and write my own music too. I strongly believe that music has magical qualities and can be used very effectively to enhance children's learning. Children naturally love music and the benefits to their development in communication language and literacy are huge.


I love the fun that the children bring. Watching them learn and progress is extremely rewarding. Conversations can be funny, frustrating and magical all at once! Children are very special.


Working at The Old School is a pleasure. The children are the most important consideration and their needs always come first.