RAFA Kidz Brize Norton

Royal Air Force, Brize Norton, Carterton OX18 3LX
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9.8 28 Reviews
  • RAFA Kidz Brize Norton, Carterton
RAFA Kidz Brize Norton is conveniently located in Carterton, close by to camp as well as surrounding family accommodation.

Inside the nursery there are five different rooms, catering to children of different ages and stages of development. Children are guided through the nursery by a team of kind and experienced practitioners who work hard to ensure that children feel safe and at home. With endless opportunities to play, learn and explore, the team aim to give children the best start to their early years and prepare them for a successful journey into school life.

Care Provided by RAFA Kidz Brize Norton

  • Type of Service
  • Day Nursery – Voluntary / Not for Profit Owned
  • Open all year
  • Full Day Care

Good to Know

  • Person in charge
  • Sarah Rathbone (Manager)
  • Number of Childcare Staff
  • 38
  • Registered Charity Number
  • 1154822
  • Total Places for Children
  • 103
  • Age Range
    • from 0 years 3 months
    • to 4 years 11 months
  • Opening Times
  • Monday 07:30-17:30
    Tuesday 07:30-17:30
    Wednesday 07:30-17:30
    Thursday 07:30-17:30
    Friday 07:30-17:30
  • When Closed
  • Bank Holidays & Christmas

Funding & Fees Guide for RAFA Kidz Brize Norton

  • Available on request


  • Parking
  • They have a car park directly outside the setting - please be aware of the one way system whereby you need to drive directly in front of the building following the road around to the car park.


Total of 28, showing 1-20
9.8

RAFA Kidz Brize Norton has a Review Score of 9.8 (9.822) out of 10, based on 25 reviews in the last 2 years. Over all time RAFA Kidz Brize Norton has 28 reviews.

Overall Experience

  • 26
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Date Published

28
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Overall Experience  Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5

Our child is well cared for at RAFA Kidz! The staff is caring and supportive and got to know our child as an individual. They keep us up to date on his nutrition and hydration. We can't recommend this nursery highly enough!

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Overall Experience  Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5

We are very pleased with RAFA Kidz nursery! The staff are brilliant with our toddler - you can tell she is well looked after, is engaged appropriately and kept safe and happy in a nurturing environment. The staff are always friendly and happy to support us or answer our questions.

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Overall Experience  Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5

Such a lovely setting with the most kind, caring and attentive staff.
My little girl has attended this setting for the past 12 months and has loved every room she has been a part of and all the staff within.
All rooms make a conscious effort to think of new and creative ways to enhance the children's
learning, fun and enjoyment. The management take the time to always greet you on a morning and make themselves available if needed and thorough updates are consistently provided through the app from all staff. I would 100% recommend RAFA Kidz Brize Norton to any parent who was considering this setting for their child.

Reply from Sarah Rathbone, Manager at RAFA Kidz Brize Norton

Thank you so much for your lovely review. We are so lucky to be able to look after your little one and to have her as apart of the RAFA Kidz family.


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Overall Experience  Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5

Amazing nursery with equally amazing staff. All the staff are incredibly helpful patient and kind, I couldn't choose a better place for my son. They always keep me up to date with everything to do with my child and have a brilliantly diverse menu that they feed him daily. They also ensure safety is
a priority at all times which makes me feel incredibly comfortable leaving him in their care day to day.

Reply from Sarah Rathbone, Manager at RAFA Kidz Brize Norton

Thank you for this wonderful review. We are very proud of our menu and the provision that we provide for the children and families, thank you for for being apart of our journey.


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Overall Experience  Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5

My daughter absolutely loves attending nursery at RAFA Kids Brize Norton. The staff are so friendly and amazing with the little ones. You can tell they really care and put a lot of effort into making sure the little ones get the care they need and have a great day. They do a great mix of indoor and
outdoor activities and my daughter is always so excited when she turns up there ready to start her day. The staff are amazing at keeping us updated on her throughout the day (meals, milk, naps etc) and also give a more In-depth report about her progress throughout the year. I would highly recommend RAFA Kids Brize Norton. It is a wonderful nursery.

Reply from Sarah Rathbone, Manager at RAFA Kidz Brize Norton

Thank you so much for your wonderful review. The team here work incredibly hard to ensure that all the little ones receive the very best care. Thank you for being apart of our journey and the RAFA Kidz family.


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Overall Experience  Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5

I highly recommend RAFA Kidz to all parents. We are a dual serving family and the nursery have been nothing but understanding and caring. Our little one started Oct 24 when she turned 12 months, she was a very shy baby and wouldn't go to anyone but Mum or Dad. 3 months later she is a loud, confident
little girl and gives big hugs to the nursery staff every morning when she sees them. We even had the first tears when she had to leave nursery the other day!
The staff are so kind and accommodating and have taken everything on board regarding my child's care. They have done their best to implement the routine I have suggested to them.
I've been very impressed with the variety of food and the amount they are given. It's always home cooked hearty meals with lots of healthy snacks throughout the day.
I was a worried parent when she first started going to nursery and missed her a lot, but the staff were great at sending me updates and pictures on the app throughout the day.
They're brilliant!

Reply from Sarah Rathbone, Manager at RAFA Kidz Brize Norton

Thank you so much for such a lovely review. We have loved getting to know your little one and her personality. Thank you for choosing RAFA Kidz.


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Overall Experience  Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5

We couldn't be happier with our experience at RAFA Kidz Brize Norton. From the very beginning, the settling in process was smooth and reassuring. The staff went above and beyond to make sure my then 7 month-old son felt comfortable and safe. They were incredibly kind, patient, and attentive, which really
helped ease both his transition and mine as a parent.
It's clear how much the staff genuinely care for the children-they always greet my son with smiles and warmth and they've truly created an environment where my son feels confident and secure.
Dropping him off each day is such a positive experience; he's always happy and settled, which speaks volumes about how comfortable and content he is. I have full trust in the team, and I'm so grateful for the love and attention they show my little one. Highly recommend this nursery!

Reply from Sarah Rathbone, Manager at RAFA Kidz Brize Norton

Thank you for your kind words. Feeling safe and secure is the most important factor when bringing your little one to nursery and we always ensure that we provide an environment that provides this. We love having you all as apart of our RAFA Kidz family.


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Overall Experience  Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5

Rafa Kidz Brize Norton is absolutely brilliant! The management team are friendly, proactive and all over the running of the nursery. The room leaders and practitioners go above and beyond to ensure these children have fun and learn. Both of my children have been with the nursery for a long time and
couldn't be more happy. They have been in all age rooms in the nursery and each one has had its own routine, appropriate for the children's age, but all follow the same ethos of the nursery. There are lots of visitors and trips throughout the year and lots of different special events and occasions are celebrated. The meals are varied and healthy and both of my children have enjoyed them very much. The nursery are always open to speak with families to see if there is anything they can do more of, less of or add in.

Reply from Sarah Rathbone, Manager at RAFA Kidz Brize Norton

Thank you so much for your kind words. We are passionate about the curriculum and provision that we provide for all of the children and their families. Our door is always open, thank you for being apart of our journey.


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Overall Experience  Overall Experience 3.0 out of 5

Preschool - overall we find this a friendly environment. Being new, there's been a huge learning curve for all involved and the RAFA staff have made a huge effort to make this transition possible and effective. Unfortunately we have found there to be a lack of communication between staff and parents,
with the standard phrase of "they've had a nice day" used, and no real understanding of what the children are doing day to day or a quality handover experience, resulting in the app not being utilised effectively. Difficult to give an accurate rating, as we do not have a full understanding of this without that communication. However, with the current implementation of improvements planned, this be a great opportunity for the company and families involved.

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Overall Experience  Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5

As requested, review of Pre School. My child is happy and content. They look forward to attending and they have a great rapport with their key worker and all other staff members. I am happy with the food and nutrition provided, no complaints from my child. As my child likes being in the outdoors, I
love the outside area at Pre school, lots of space, lots of activities, enjoy seeing the updates/pictures on the app. I also like the individual rooms off the main room, so the children can chose where or what they wish to do. I love the quiet area for them. It would be great to hear how the children are being prepared for school in September, maybe an app update or even a parent's update evening?


All staff are attentive, friendly and caring towards the children and parents.
I know when my child comes home dirty, paint-stained, or a change of wet clothes from playing outside, they have had a fun day and that as a parent is all I want to know.


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Overall Experience  Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5

Pre-school is very good. Staff are good with the children and encourage development. Son never moans about going which must be a good thing. Food varies but there are a few repeat meals our son never touches and it would be good to have an alternative for him. The pick-ups are the only issue as there
is a one-on-one policy which is fine but some parents are in there for 5 minutes and there is no shelter.

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Overall Experience  Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5

My daughter is in preschool with Rafa Kidz. Since moving to the new building it's been great to see her grow. There are so many different themed rooms meaning she's allowed to explore what she likes and doesn't like. The curriculum has been tailored to their ages and her learning and development is
coming along brilliantly. Well done team!

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Overall Experience  Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5

I cannot say enough how amazing RAFA Kidz Brize have been. Our son has progressed far beyond expectations. He loves it. Our son jumps in excitement every morning in the car park excited to get in. From a negative experience previously elsewhere RAFA Kidz restored faith in the nursery system for us.
All
staff are so friendly approachable and genuinely care for you and your child. This nursery has made going back to work a breeze knowing he is so happy and safe in their care.

Reply from Sarah Rathbone, Manager at RAFA Kidz Brize Norton

Thank you so much for your kind words. Making those big transitions is so important to the team here and we are grateful that we can be a part of their journey.


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Overall Experience  Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5

My daughter has loved her time at RAFA Kidz Brize Norton and that is thanks to all the staff there who make her days full of creative, fun ways to learn. She is always encouraged to explore which is second nature to her. My expectation for a nursery setting is to embed a love of learning through play
and that’s exactly what she has been given. Thank you to each and every one of you for keeping my daughter safe and starting her learning journey off in such a positive light.

Reply from Sarah Rathbone, TBC at RAFA Kidz Brize Norton

Thank you so much for your lovely review. We have absolutely loved having your little one with us and wish her every success as she continues her Early Years journey.


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Overall Experience  Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5

Excellent facility and friendly staff which make a safe enjoyable environment for our children. Well managed from top to bottom in conjunction with very good communication from all staff regarding the children.

Reply from Sarah Rathbone, Manager at RAFA Kidz Brize Norton

Thank you so much for your review. We love having your little ones with us.


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Overall Experience  Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5

Both my children are coming along so well here. They both love coming into the setting and always leave with smiles on their faces. Staff are very welcoming and approachable and I feel confident leaving my children in their care. Communication is great with regular updates and photographs outlining
what has been happening during the day. Staff work well with parents to facilitate appointments, allergies and other requirements.

Reply from Sarah Rathbone, Manager at RAFA Kidz Brize Norton

Thank you for your kind review. We love that we can support your children and that you appreciate all of the communications from the team.


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Overall Experience  Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5

I am a serving member of the armed forces and find that the service provided by Rafa kids Brize Norton is nothing short of outstanding. The staff are friendly and welcoming and take an active interest in the children and the importance of their development. They have also been very accommodating when
my own work commitments have changed, often affecting my drop-off or pick-up time at the 11th hour. I would highly recommend this service, and if you are a serving member of the armed forces with a child of nursery age, I would suggest it would be a foolish decision not to take advantage of the service.

Reply from Sarah Rathbone, Manager at RAFA Kidz Brize Norton

Thank you so much for your lovely review. It is a pleasure caring for your little one and being able to support all of our families.


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Overall Experience  Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5

My son is always well looked after and I can see he is provided with love and care whilst he is attending nursery. The nursery has taught my son his own emotions and he can clearly identify when he is happy, something that they have taught him extremely well and with care. He has learned to count confidently
and can sing nursery rhymes very well! It gives me peace of mind knowing the nursery is teaching him fundamental information about day-to-day life and setting him up for success.
I cannot recommend this nursery enough!

Reply from Sarah Rathbone, Manager at RAFA Kidz Brize Norton

Thank you for your lovely review - it is a pleasure caring for your little one and supporting them in all aspects of their care, learning and development.


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Overall Experience  Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5

My son has been going here since he was 1. The staff are absolutely lovely and have been so supportive. I’m a military mum and have had to deploy for months while he’s been going through nursery. They were amazing, helping my husband out and being supportive for my son.

Reply from Sarah Rathbone, Manager at RAFA Kidz Brize Norton

Thank you for your review - we are so pleased that we have been able to support your family and your son.


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Overall Experience  Overall Experience 4.0 out of 5

A great nursery. My little girl has loved attending from day 1. All members of staff are polite and friendly. The facilities are great. Information on their day (food/sleep/nappies) is shared seamlessly on their app, the only thing missing is if we could find out more of their day to day development
and what activities they’ve been doing. Otherwise a super nursery, extremely reasonable compared to others in the area and we’re very lucky to have it on our doorstep.

Reply from Sarah Rathbone, Manager at RAFA Kidz Brize Norton

Thank you so much for your kind review. We are super proud of our setting and love having both of your little ones with us.


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Current Review Score: 9.8 (9.822)

Overview of Review Score

The Review Score of 9.8 (9.822) out of 10 for RAFA Kidz Brize Norton 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 25 Reviews in the last 24 months.

  • b) The score for the number of positive Reviews is 5.0 out of 5 from 24 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 4.822 for RAFA Kidz Brize Norton is calculated as follows: ( (259 Excellents x 5) + (25 Goods x 4) + (14 Satisfactorys x 3) ) ÷ 298 Ratings = 4.822

  • 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 RAFA Kidz Brize Norton is based on 24 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 103 number of registered child places is 20.6, which has been reached with 24 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

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Meet the Team (1)

Sarah

Sarah Rathbone

Job Title: Manager

Joined: 2023

Hi, my name is Sarah and am the manager here at RAFA Kidz Brize Norton.


Having worked in the Early Years of my whole career I am passionate about supporting children in their earliest years and being a part of families' lives; providing them with support, guidance and care.


Working within Early Years really is the best job; taking children on a journey by providing a home-from-home environment, exciting and enticing learning opportunities and developing an outstanding staff team to enable this to happen.


Staff development is key and one of my passions, pedagogy, curriculum and practice is continually developing and being able to develop a staff team within this is exciting.


I really look forward to welcoming you all to our setting.


Frequently Asked Questions about RAFA Kidz Brize Norton

What is the Age Range of Children that RAFA Kidz Brize Norton accepts?

RAFA Kidz Brize Norton accepts Children aged from 0 years 3 months to 4 years 11 months.

What Days & Hours is RAFA Kidz Brize Norton Open?

RAFA Kidz Brize Norton is open: Monday 07:30-17:30, Tuesday 07:30-17:30, Wednesday 07:30-17:30, Thursday 07:30-17:30, Friday 07:30-17:30.

How many Children does RAFA Kidz Brize Norton have capacity for?

RAFA Kidz Brize Norton has capacity for a total of 103 Children.

How far is RAFA Kidz Brize Norton to the centre of Carterton?

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