Programs and Sessions
At Dickory Dock Nursery, we provide a warm, stimulating, and supportive environment where children aged
Birth to 5 can learn, explore, and flourish. We offer flexible session schedules to fit seamlessly into your family's routine, alongside fully supported funded childcare options.
Funded Sessions
We offer full and part-time places from birth to 5 years, with flexible childcare designed around the needs of your child and family.
Eligible 9mnts+, 2yr, 3yr and 4-year-olds can access 15 or 30 hours of funded childcare, with flexible options to help you make the most of your entitlement.
Choose from 38-week Term-Time funding or stretch your funded hours across 50 weeks of the year – ideal for families who need childcare throughout the year.
We believe in keeping things simple and transparent, with no hidden costs. Any additional extras are optional.
Not sure which option is best for you? We're always happy to help you find the best way to use your funded hours around your work and family life.
Get in touch with our friendly team to find out more.
Our Curriculum
Our curriculum is delivered through a balanced approach of child-led exploration, adult-guided learning and planned teaching opportunities. We recognise that children learn best when they are actively engaged in experiences that are meaningful to them while also benefiting from skilled adult interactions that extend their thinking and deepen their understanding.
Our practitioners understand the importance of scaffolding learning. Through skilled interactions, sustained shared thinking, open-ended questioning, modelling language and extending children's thinking, adults know when to sensitively intervene to enhance learning and when to step back, allowing children the time and space to problem-solve, develop independence and lead their own play. We believe that effective teaching is not about directing children's learning but about recognising the right moment to support,
Our Daily Routine
Consistency, Flexibility and Learning Through Play
At Dickory Dock Nursery, we follow a consistent yet flexible whole-nursery routine that helps children feel safe, secure and confident while meeting their individual needs. Each day offers a balance of adult-led and child-led learning, small group times, stories, singing, early maths, yoga, energetic physical activities and indoor and outdoor free-flow play. Our routine also includes toothbrushing, healthy meals, free-flow snacks, personal care and opportunities for rest. By providing familiar routines alongside flexibility, we encourage independence, positive wellbeing, creativity and meaningful learning experiences, allowing every child to learn, grow and thrive at their own pace.
The EYFS and Assessments
At Dickory Dock Nursery, we follow the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS), which supports children's learning, development and wellbeing from birth to five years across seven key areas of learning. Through play, everyday experiences and carefully planned activities, we help each child develop at their own pace. Our practitioners regularly observe and assess children's progress, identifying their achievements, interests and next steps in learning. We also complete the statutory progress check at age two and work closely with parents to celebrate achievements, share progress and provide the best possible support for every child's development.
Our Learning Journey
At Dickory Dock Nursery, every child's learning journey is unique. Guided by the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS), we provide a nurturing, inclusive and stimulating environment where learning experiences are tailored to each child's individual needs, interests, abilities and stage of development. We work closely with parents, carers and other professionals and agencies to ensure every child receives the support and opportunities they need to thrive. Through play, exploration and positive relationships, we build children's confidence, independence and essential skills, supporting smooth and happy transitions between nursery rooms and onwards to school.
