Cricklade Manor Nursery

The Manor House, Calcutt Street, Swindon SN6 6BB
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9.5 14 Reviews
Discover a magical place where your child will soar!

Cricklade Manor Nursery is a happy and stimulating environment, where boys and girls aged 2 years and up really thrive. With the support and encouragement of the outstanding team of staff, children develop curiosity, build confidence, and challenge themselves with new experiences.

Cricklade Manor Nursery is open year-round from 7.30 am -6 pm, accommodating your busy schedule while ensuring your child receives the care and attention they deserve. Every day is filled with fun and friendship. The Nursery boasts a beautiful secure walled garden, providing a safe and enchanting space for your little one to explore and play. Additionally, Cricklade Manor Nursery has access to the school's amazing on-site facilities, enriching your child's learning experience. The team take pride in offering specialist Sport and Forest School sessions, allowing your child to develop both physically and creatively. The Cricklade Manor Woodland Creatures engage young minds to help children discover the joy of learning in a fun and playful way. Busy minds mean full tummies, the Nursery serves delicious home-cooked meals by the school's chefs, that are both nutritious and appealing to young palates.

Come and take a tour of Cricklade Manor Nursery, where your child's growth and development are top priorities.
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Care Provided by Cricklade Manor Nursery

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

Good to Know

  • Person in charge
  • Lorna Bishop (Manager)
  • Number of Childcare Staff
  • 12
  • Total Places for Children
  • 116
  • Age Range
    • from 2 years 0 months
    • to 4 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, Christmas Holidays & Staff inset days

Funding & Fees Guide for Cricklade Manor Nursery

  • 8 am - 4 pm - £59.20 per day
    8 am - 5 pm - £66.60 per day
    8 am - 6 pm - £74 per day
    Lunch & Snacks - £6 per day

  • These fees exclude the Early Years Free Entitlement funding.


    If your child attends nursery year-round, a maximum of 30 funded hours is claimed for 38 weeks for eligible children.


    If your child attends nursery term time only, 30 funded hours are claimed for 33 weeks for eligible children.


    Registration fee - £50 (non-refundable)
    Deposit - £500 (is refundable: subject to no arrears on the account, and the correct notice period served)

Cricklade Manor Nursery Reviews (14)

9.5

Cricklade Manor Nursery has a Review Score of 9.5 (9.514) out of 10, based on 14 reviews in the last 2 years. Over all time Cricklade Manor Nursery has 14 reviews.

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Review from Annabel G (Grandmother of Child) published on 7 January 2025
Submitted via Postal Card • Report

Overall Experience  Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5

I attended my grandson and granddaughter's nativity plays. The atmosphere in the school hall was magical and all the children in the plays were relaxed and happy as were the staff.
Each play enabled individual children to excel themselves in their costumes and roles. Thank you Cricklade Manor.

Reply from Felicity, Marketing Officer at Cricklade Manor Nursery

Thank you so much for your wonderful review! We're absolutely delighted that you enjoyed the nativity. We take great pride in creating opportunities for each child to shine, and it's lovely to know their hard work and joy came through. Thank you for your kind words and for sharing with us at Cricklade Manor Nursery.


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Review from L C (Mother of Child) published on 20 December 2024
Submitted via Postal Card • Report

Overall Experience  Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5

I love the nursery. The outdoor facilities are amazing.

Reply from Felicity, Marketing Co-ordinator at Cricklade Manor Nursery

Thank you so much for taking the time to share your review. We deeply value the feedback from our families, as it helps us continue to provide the best experience for everyone. We're thrilled to hear that you love the nursery, especially the outdoor facilities, and that your child is happy here. Your kind words mean so much to us!


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Review from S V (Mother of Child) published on 18 October 2024
Submitted via Postal Card • Report

Overall Experience  Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5

Cricklade Manor Nursery is an outstanding school which I recommend highly to all who are in need of an amazing preschool. The staff are all friendly, caring and we just love how amazing they are to our daughter. I couldn't have dreamt of a better place to have our daughter. The activities and outdoor
play are just great! We really loved seeing how our daughter grew while there. Thank you for making it such a caring, nurturing and thoughtful environment. She loves going in everyday.

Reply from Felicity, Marketing Co-ordinator at Cricklade Manor Nursery

Thank you so much for your wonderful feedback! We're thrilled to hear that you and your daughter have had such a positive experience at Cricklade Manor Nursery. It means the world to us to know that our caring environment and engaging activities have made a difference in her growth and happiness. We are truly grateful for your recommendation and are delighted that your daughter loves coming in each day. Thank you for trusting us with her care and development - it's wonderful to be part of her journey.


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Review from L C (Mother of Child) published on 10 July 2024
Submitted via Postal Card • Report

Overall Experience  Overall Experience 4.0 out of 5

Our child has attended Cricklade Nursery for the last two years. They have had a brilliant time, the staff are caring and there are so many different activities. The outdoor space is brilliant. I feel that they are all well-prepared to move on to school. The only downside is that they don't take children
under two years old.

Reply from Felicity Westall, Marketing Co-ordinator at Cricklade Manor Nursery

Thank you so much for your wonderful review We're thrilled to hear that your child has had a brilliant time at Cricklade Manor Nursery. We're especially glad that you've enjoyed our outdoor space and feel that your child is well-prepared for the next step in their educational journey. Thank you for being a part of our Cricklade Nursery family.


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Review from James C (Father of Child) published on 2 July 2024
Submitted via Website • Report

Overall Experience  Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5

Great little nursery with excellent facilities which allowed both my boys to thoroughly enjoy their time there. The walled garden area with its own playground area and sandpit provides an excellent safe environment for kids to run around in and make friends from other classes. Being an integral part
of the main school and sharing in the many facilities of a larger school, e.g. sports hall, Astroturf, is a great benefit to the kids and also made the transition for both my boys from nursery to the main school a breeze. Great team of staff and highly recommend the nursery to other parents.

Reply from Felicity, Marketing Co-ordinator at Cricklade Manor Nursery

Thank you for your wonderful feedback. We're delighted to hear that your boys enjoyed their time at Cricklade Manor Nursery. It's great to know that the walled garden area and the shared school resources made a positive impact on their experience and transition to the main school. We appreciate your recommendation and kind words about our staff. Thank you for being a part of our Nursery community.


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Review from Elizabeth R (Mother of Child) published on 27 March 2024
Submitted via Website • Report

Overall Experience  Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5

Our son started the nursery a few months ago, following in his sister’s footsteps. We have been so pleased with the experience and would highly recommend. The staff are amazing and our children have been very happy and both settled in very easily. The setting and space are fantastic, with forest school
and the chickens being a highlight.

Reply from Felicity Westall, Marketing Co-ordinator at Cricklade Manor Nursery

This is wonderful, it's always heartening to hear that children are not only happy but thriving at Cricklade Manor Nursery. We are incredibly fortunate to have such dedicated and nurturing staff members. We are delighted to hear that your son has a particular fondness for the Forest School and our chickens. Thank you for sharing your positive feedback with us.


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Review from P T (Father of Child) published on 1 March 2024
Submitted via Website • Report

Overall Experience  Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5

My son has recently started at Cricklade and has settled well. He comes home talking about his friends and teachers, especially his key person. Considering he has only been at this nursery for six weeks, he has learnt so much already. He is reciting stories in books that we have never read before, and
his counting has improved dramatically, but most importantly he’s learning through having fun! The outdoor spaces and the extracurricular activities they offer are amazing, from the forest school to music and French sessions.

Reply from Felicity Westall, Marketing Co-ordinator at Cricklade Manor Nursery

This is wonderful to hear! It sounds like your son is thriving at Cricklade Manor Nursery. It's fantastic that he's settling in so well and enjoying his time with his friends, teachers, and especially his key person. We are so happy he is enjoying the Forest School, French and Music lessons. We hope he continues to have fun throughout his learning journey at Cricklade Manor Nursery.


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Review from M B (Mother of Child) published on 4 January 2024
Submitted via Website • Report

Overall Experience  Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5

I can highly recommend the nursery as they are definitely much more than childcare. My child attended from two years old and her learning accelerated through their play plan. Excellent teachers and staff, sharing great facilities and events with the school. The food provided is excellent. It’s a great
place to start early learning. My child was really happy and enjoyed the nursery.

Reply from Felicity Westall, Marketing Co-ordinator at Cricklade Manor Nursery

Thank you for sharing such a wonderful recommendation of Cricklade Manor Nursery. We are delighted to hear that your child benefited from both the engaging play plan and excellent teachers and staff. We’re thrilled that your child had such an enjoyable experience at our Nursery.


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Review from Z J (Mother of Child) published on 19 December 2023
Submitted via Website • Report

Overall Experience  Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5

Highly Recommend the nursery. I can see the confidence in my child. The staff and tutors are really helpful. Tutors work with the individual needs of a child and work together with a parent. The nursery is neat and tidy. Tutors are highly qualified.

Reply from Felicity Westall, Marketing Co-ordinator at Cricklade Manor Nursery

Thank you so much for your lovely recommendation. We are thrilled to hear that your child has gained confidence at Cricklade Manor Nursery. Our staff take great pride in creating a supportive environment tailored to each child's needs. As you mentioned, our highly qualified staff are passionate about providing the best possible care at Cricklade Manor Nursery. We're extremely grateful for your positive feedback.


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Review from Joanna S (Aunt of Child) published on 15 December 2023
Submitted via Website • Report

Overall Experience  Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5

Lovely nursery with caring and nurturing staff set in its own special walled garden. Both my children and now my niece and nephew have been through this nursery. They were amazing at supporting me with potty training and eating issues. My children were so happy they didn’t want to leave!

Reply from Felicity Westall, Marketing Co-ordinator at Cricklade Manor Nursery

Thank you for taking a moment to share your positive thoughts about Cricklade Manor Nursery. We’re thrilled to hear that both your children, niece and nephew all had such a wonderful time here. It’s lovely to know that they were so happy here that they didn’t want to leave! We appreciate your kind words.


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Review from Felicity B (Mother of Child) published on 13 December 2023
Submitted via Postal Card • Report

Overall Experience  Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5

My child moved nurseries after her's closed. It was a daunting move, however, made incredibly easy by the staff. The children were warm and welcoming. My child fell in love with her teachers and support staff. I dropped her off each day and she never looked back. The forest school is a particular highlight,
the chicken's another. Finally, I really appreciate the chef pushing my child's boundaries and taste buds. Excellent experience, highly recommend.

Reply from Felicity Westall, Marketing Co-ordinator at Cricklade Manor Nursery

We are thrilled that the transition from your previous Nursery to Cricklade Manor Nursery was seamless and effortless and we are delighted to hear that your child felt welcomed and included by the other Nursery children. It is wonderful to hear that your child developed strong and positive relationships with our Nursery Room Leaders and Assistants. We're overjoyed that they thoroughly enjoyed our Forest School, especially the chickens! It is fantastic to hear that our chefs have helped to open the yummy world of new and tasty foods for your child to experience and enjoy. Thank you for your kind recommendation and for being part of our supportive parental community.


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Review from Malveen Kaur J (Mother of Child) published on 3 November 2023
Submitted via Website • Report

Overall Experience  Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5

Cricklade Manor Prep Nursery has a very family-orientated ethos. Children have access to a wide range of resources. Classroom sizes are big and they can also make use of a big the playground with access to an outdoor adventure playground. The learning is second to none. Children and are introduced to
the foundations required to prepare them for full-time education. The teaching staff are friendly and caring and very approachable. My child enjoyed every day he spent at nursery at Cricklade Manor Prep and has settled in very well at Pre-Prep.

Reply from Felicity Westall, Marketing Co-ordinator at Cricklade Manor Nursery

Thank you so much for your wonderful review of Cricklade Manor Nursery. We're thrilled to hear about your positive experience. We're delighted to know that your child has enjoyed the wide range of resources and spacious classrooms. It's fantastic to hear that they loved the outdoor adventure playground. We're thrilled that your child embraced their time at Cricklade Manor Nursery and has had a smooth transition to Pre-Prep. Thank you for being a part of our community.


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Review from R M (Mother of Child) published on 24 October 2023
Submitted via Website • Report

Overall Experience  Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5

My child started at Cricklade Manor Nursery in September and we are absolutely over the moon with the care he has received so far. The opportunities the team have provided, both in the classroom as well as in the beautiful walled garden, are second to none. My child loves the PE sessions in the sports
hall and the delicious lunches and snacks he has everyday. We really couldn't be happier with the progress he has made during the last couple of months and love hearing about all the exciting things he is doing! We can't thank you all enough!

Reply from Felicity, Marketing & Communications Officer at Cricklade Manor Nursery

That's wonderful to hear! We're thrilled that your child is thriving at Cricklade Manor Nursery and enjoying all the fantastic opportunities and care provided. Your child's progress and happiness mean the world to us.


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Review from Laura V (Mother of Child) published on 9 October 2023
Submitted via Website • Report

Overall Experience  Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5

Outstanding nursery, with such a passionate and dedicated team. We can’t thank them enough for the wonderful start to education offered to our two children. They have enjoyed every day and the facilities, including forest school, have been such a bonus. We would highly recommend.

Reply from Felicity Westall, Marketing Co-ordinator at Cricklade Manor Nursery

Thank you so much for your kind words. We're thrilled to hear about the positive experience your children have had at our nursery. Our team is indeed passionate and dedicated to providing a nurturing and enriching environment for every child. We are so very happy that your little ones have enjoyed each day and benefited from the various facilities, including the Forest School. Thank you for being a part of our nursery community.


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Current Review Score: 9.5 (9.514)

Overview of Review Score

The Review Score of 9.5 (9.514) out of 10 for Cricklade Manor Nursery 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 14 Reviews in the last 24 months.

  • b) The score for the number of positive Reviews is 4.6 out of 5 from 14 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 4.911 for Cricklade Manor Nursery is calculated as follows: ( (153 Excellents x 5) + (15 Goods x 4) ) ÷ 168 Ratings = 4.911

  • 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 4.603 Points relating to the number of positive Reviews for Cricklade Manor Nursery is based on 14 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 116 number of registered child places is 23.2. 14 Positive Reviews ÷ 23.2 = 0.603

  • 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.

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Awards / Recognitions (0)

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News (5) & Events (1)

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Meet the Team (13)

Lorna

Lorna

Job Title: Nursery Manager and Room Leader

Joined: 2023

Hello, I'm Lorna, Nursery Manager. I have worked in childcare for over thirteen years, experiencing different positions and roles, which now leads me to the Manager role for over 9 years. In 2021 I had the most invaluable education and experience by having my own little bundle of joy – Michael.

I have always wanted to work with children, I see it as my vocation not just a job. I feel it’s important to nurture children’s well-being and development to enable them to thrive and most importantly be happy.

During my career, I have gained a variety of experience and training. Now as a Manager, I see my role as being able to mentor and support the team to help them to reflect and professionally develop which has a vital impact on their and the children’s learning. I also have a passion for outdoor learning and creating an environment that incorporates a variety of approaches such as; the curiosity approach, Reggio Emilia, Froebel, Forest School & Steiner.

Which Woodland Explorer would you be?
Curious Cat

What is your favourite storybook that you like to read with the children?
There are so many books it’s hard to choose! But one of my favourites is ‘The Gruffalo’ especially listening to the children recite and recall the book and seeing how excited they get towards the end before the Gruffalo appears. I feel reading is pivotal to children’s it allows them to be calm and relaxed, creating new knowledge to enlighten their minds and provides children with important skills for later life.

... Read more
Keiley

Keiley

Job Title: Nursery Room Leader

Joined: 2024

I have always wanted to work with children. After having my own 2 children and completing my Early Year's qualification I began working in a day nursery. I then became a childminder and ran my home-from-home setting for 15 years.
I haven’t been at Cricklade Manor Nursery for long, but everyone has made me feel extremely welcome and a valued part of the team. I enjoy meeting the families and supporting the children each day.
I love being outside come rain or shine, providing opportunities for curiosity, exploring and learning. I also like being creative and getting involved in setting up open-ended activities using loose parts and natural resources.

Which Woodland Explorer would you be?
Talkative toad- because I am a very chatty person!

What is your favourite storybook to read with the children?
Rainbow fish has always been a favourite of mine because I love how it supports friendships, sharing and kindness.

... Read more
Emily

Emily

Job Title: Nursery Room Leader

Joined: 2023

I gained experience in many areas before deciding to start my career in childcare. I started as a Childminding Assistant in 2016 working with children from 4 months to 11 years.

I then worked with looked after children as a Senior Residential Support Worker for just over 2 years before starting at Cricklade Manor Nursery in 2023.

I enjoy seeing the children grow and develop their skills and relationships with their peers. And knowing the team I work with are supportive of each other.

Over the years that I have worked with children, I have gained experience whether it’s hands-on learning or online training. I would say I am a creative person & I enjoy watching the children learning new life skills and being curious and creative whether that’s baking or exploring different materials.

Which Woodland Explorer would you be?
Wordy Weasel as I love that the children get lots of pleasure from the books we read them.

What storybook do you enjoy reading with the children?
I have a few favourite books that I like to read with the children especially anything by Julia Donaldson!

I also enjoy anything by Nick Sharatt, like ‘There’s a shark in the park’ or ‘Ketchup on your cornflakes’ as these books get the children involved and help feed their imagination.

... Read more
Tanisha

Tanisha

Job Title: Nursery Room Leader

Joined: 2024

After working in jobs I didn’t enjoy or have a passion for, I finally found my calling when volunteering for a charity that involved childcare. This ignited something inside of me and I haven’t looked back since! I began my apprenticeship and gained my level 3 NVQ in Early Years Education in 2022. Now I have continued to enhance my knowledge and understanding of the role while working in a job I love!

I really enjoy the community Cricklade Manor Prep has built with their staff, children and families. The constant feeling of belonging and teamwork make this a fantastic environment to be in. I also love how happy the children are within their environments as I have the opportunity to observe, connect and scaffold their learning!

Which Woodland Explorer would you be?
Creative Caterpillar

What is your favourite storybook you enjoy reading with the children?
My Favourite book to read and act out with the children is ‘We’re Going On A Bear Hunt’. I love that the story encourages adventure as we run around the garden pretending to squelch through mud, splash through rivers and tiptoe into scary caves!

... Read more
Kerrie

Kerrie

Job Title: Nursery Room Leader

Joined: 2023

I started as a childminder in 2006 working in my home and during that time I looked after about 120 children and was OFSTED Outstanding for the last 12 years.

I love that no two days are the same, the whole team at Cricklade is like a ‘family’ and the children are all so energetic, enthusiastic and keen to learn.

Having previously worked on my own as a childminder for 17 years I have an extensive breadth of experience across all aspects of EYFS and SEN, plus I consider myself to have a very creative approach to getting the children to be engaged in their learning.

Which Woodland Explorer would you be?
Creative Caterpillar

What is your favourite storybook you enjoy reading with children?
My absolute favourite book is ‘We’re Going on a Bear Hunt’ as this is such an engaging story that brings the children's imagination alive, especially when combined with a trip to Forest School.

... Read more
Amanda

Amanda

Job Title: Nursery Assistant

Joined: 2024

After having my 4 boys I decided I wanted to look after children more, so I did a childcare course and started working in a nursery as a key worker. I then completed my NVQ level 3 in childcare. After leaving this nursery I started my own childminding business which I ran for 17 years gaining good/outstanding on inspections. After closing my childminding business I started working at a school as a special educational needs assistant caring for a child who was terminally ill.

I have not been here long but the team of staff are wonderful people always willing to help The gardens are a wonderful place to have fun and explore. I love seeing the chickens every day as well.

I am very creative; I love to bake as well. I really enjoy being a part of the children’s day and helping them to explore and have fun.

I do have an interest in sensory play which can be very stimulating for any child.

I would love to learn more about SEN

Which Woodland Explorer would you be?
Creative Caterpillar

What is your favourite storybook you enjoy reading with children?

My favourite book is Rainbow Fish as it talks about sharing and being kind to each other.

... Read more
Amy

Amy

Job Title: Nursery Assistant

Joined: 2025

Hello! I have over six years of experience in childcare, working in various nurseries and preschools across Swindon and the surrounding areas. From a young age, I knew I wanted to work with children, and during school, I eagerly took on work experience opportunities to begin my journey. After finishing school, I immediately pursued an apprenticeship to earn my Level 2 Childcare qualification.

Throughout my career, I’ve gained valuable knowledge and training and continue to expand my understanding of child development. I’ve also had the exciting opportunity to work abroad with TUI, where I served as a Baby Club Host in Greece and as a Kids Club Host at a ski resort in France.

I joined Cricklade Manor in 2025 and am deeply passionate about outdoor learning and creating natural, engaging environments that inspire children to explore, play, and develop essential life skills. One of the things I love most about my role is the variety—no two days are ever the same! The team here is incredibly supportive, and the children’s warmth and energy make every day a joy as we bring amazing ideas and activities to life.

I consider myself highly creative and enjoy hands-on, messy play activities like experimenting with tuff trays, exploring playdough, and tailoring activities to the children’s interests. Storytime is another favourite part of my day—I particularly love reading anything by Julia Donaldson or classics like The Tiger Who Came to Tea.

... Read more
Archana

Archana

Job Title: Nursery Assistant

Joined: 2024

I started working in childcare after having my daughter. I really enjoyed working at her Preschool. Cricklade Manor Nursery has a big outdoor garden, which all the children enjoy playing together in. The children are very lucky to have all the resources they have available to them at Cricklade Manor Nursery. I believe teamwork and playing together provide the best education for the children.

I have started my journey in childcare taking an apprentice where I will gain and develop my skills and knowledge in childcare.

Which Woodland Explorer would you be?
Mathematical mouse, as I love numbers and like to solve problems.

What is your favourite storybook that you enjoy reading with children?
My favourite book to read to the children is "We’re Going on a Bear Hunt." All the children really enjoy this book.

... Read more
Becky

Becky

Job Title: Nursery Assistant

Joined: 2020

I qualified as a teacher 35 years ago, in Primary Education with PE as a specialist and have worked in Primary education up until the last 5 years.

Then I stepped aside and started working in the nursery with 2–4-year-olds and have loved it ever since.
I love watching the children grow and develop through the different milestones. Every day I love seeing the smile on their face as they achieve something new.

I have experience with SEN as I have two children with Autism. I understand from a parent's perspective how challenging yet rewarding looking SEN children can be.

Which Woodland Explorer would you be?
Sporty Squirrel

What is your favourite storybook to read with children?
I love older fashioned books such as Owl Babies and the Tiger Who Came to Tea as I used to read these with my children.

... Read more
Kristina

Kristina

Job Title: Nursery Assistant

Joined: 2024

A few years ago, I began working at a breakfast and after-school club with children aged 4-11, where I discovered my true passion and felt I was in the right place. At Cricklade Manor Nursery, I enjoy being a part of a supportive team, the beautiful garden that offers children a space to explore, and the affectionate cuddles from the little ones.

As a mother of two boys, I have a personal appreciation for creative activities, especially cooking and baking, which we love to incorporate into our role-playing games.

One of my many favourite books that I enjoy reading with the children is "The Tiger Who Came to Tea" as it holds a special place in my heart.

... Read more
Sophie

Sophie

Job Title: Nursery Assistant

Joined: 2024

My passion for working with children began after having my own two. I used to take my daughter, then son, to a wonderful city farm toddler group, which we all loved. I went on to do a sessional creche worker course at the same place. This led me to want to further my education, so I went on to study a Level 3 Diploma in Childcare & Education for over 2 years. I have since worked in Early Years child care & education for over 20 years, in five different settings. For the last eight years, I worked as a Reception class Teaching assistant in Bristol.

I was drawn to Cricklade Manor Nursery because of the welcoming staff and the wonderful grounds. I love being outdoors and the Nursery with its fantastic walled garden at the front and smaller garden at the back, has lots of amazing space to explore. I was especially excited by the Forest School area and the wonderful learning experiences this will provide the children.

I absolutely adore nature in all forms, so I’m hoping to instil my knowledge and passion for nature in the children.
I also love singing and playing the piano, so you’ll probably catch me singing to/along with the children at some point! I love it when the children become familiar with songs and become confident enough to happily join in.

Which Woodland Explorer would you be?
Although I can relate to all of the creatures; I think I will choose ‘Talkative Toad’, because I really am extremely chatty!

What is your favourite storybook that you like to read with the children?
I really do love all of Julia Donaldson’s wonderful books, especially if they’re illustrated by Axel Scheffler, as i think his illustrations are utterly fantastic. I love reading her books as I enjoy the super rhymes. She also creates such vivid, original characters; I enjoy trying to give them different voices when reading to the children!

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Sophie

Sophie

Job Title: Nursery Assistant

Joined: 2024

Over the last three years, I've been exploring a career in childcare, largely inspired by the joy I find in playing with and watching my younger family members grow. I've noticed that children are naturally drawn to me and enjoy our interactions.

I believe in using arts and crafts, playdough, painting, and hands-on activities to help kids develop their motor skills, and I also emphasise number work and colour patterns. I particularly enjoy using the sandpit for construction and building activities.

As a creative individual, I bring new ideas to the Nursery, designing engaging activities that involve the children in the process.

Which Woodland Explorer would you be?
Creative Caterpillar

What is your favourite storybook to read with the children?
One of our favourite activities is reading about ‘Patsy the cow’ in ‘My Animal Farm Book: Cows,’ especially the part about Patsy making a chocolate milkshake, which the children love.

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Daniel

Daniel

Job Title: Nursery Assistant (seasonal)

Joined: 2019

I started my career in Early Years and child development back in 2018 and have worked in Cricklade Manor Nursery for 5 years which I very much enjoy. During this, I have worked alongside other professionals to support preschool children whilst working towards the BA Hons degree in Early Childhood Studies qualification.

I love the outdoor EYFS garden area. The children are very fortunate to have this as an opportunity towards their learning at CMP. Outdoor learning offers plenty of experiences and engagement to the children, with the favourite of course being Forest School.

Throughout my years working in Early Years and Education, I have completed and achieved different CPD training courses that have allowed me to extend my previous knowledge and understanding of the different aspects and perspectives holistically within Early Childhood Education. Currently, I am undergoing my qualification as a BA Hons degree in Early Childhood Studies which has allowed me to explore areas within Early Childhood Education that I would not have thought would be significant, however, it has taught me the very importance of them.

For example, the idea of representations of childhood can be significant as it allows us, as professionals, to recognise the little aspects of a child’s life that can have an effect on children’s growth and development holistically.

Which Woodland Explorer would you be?
Sporty Squirrel because I have a passion for P.E and sports activities which is supported within our outdoor continuous provisions.

What is your favourite storybook that you like to read with the children?
My favourite story is ‘The Disgusting Sandwich’ by Gareth Edwards. This story allows for endless opportunities for children regarding their communication and language, along with their Personal, Social and Emotional Development. This story offers discussion topics to the children which they demonstrate lots of interest to. This allows us, as professionals, to implement activities and resources into our continuous provisions within the classrooms for the children to engage and thrive.

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Frequently Asked Questions about Cricklade Manor Nursery

What is the Age Range of Children that Cricklade Manor Nursery accepts?

Cricklade Manor Nursery accepts Children aged from 2 years 0 months to 4 years 0 months.

What Days & Hours is Cricklade Manor Nursery Open?

Cricklade Manor Nursery 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 Cricklade Manor Nursery have capacity for?

Cricklade Manor Nursery has capacity for a total of 116 Children.

How far is Cricklade Manor Nursery to the centre of Swindon?

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

Information on this page is displayed without responsibility for its accuracy on the part of daynurseries.co.uk. Please contact Cricklade Manor Nursery to verify any information. View our terms and conditions. Cricklade Manor Nursery has a Platinum Service – more info.