Childcare outstanding provider since 1960
Welcome to West Hill Nursery and Forest School, a warm and welcoming early years setting nestled in the heart of Braunton, North Devon. We provide high-quality full-day care for children aged 0 to 5 years, in a nurturing environment where every child is encouraged to grow, explore, and thrive. With a small capacity of children, we offer a truly personal and family-like atmosphere. Our experienced and passionate team is committed to supporting each child's individual development through a rich blend of play, learning and discovery.
Forest School Adventures: Held three times a week, in addition to our nursery setting, our forest school sessions give children the chance to explore nature, build resilience, and develop a love for the outdoors through hands-on learning in a natural setting. We believe in education for sustainability, actively engaging in sustainable practices everyday and the promotion of a sense of responsibility, respect, empowerment, enquiry and the social change to make a better difference. Our unique learning landscape is inspired by nature pedagogies; including learning elements of Emilia Reggio, Montessori and McMillan theories.
Imaginative Role-Play: From running a pretend shop to cooking up fun in a bubble water kitchen, our role-play areas spark creativity and social interaction.
Critical Thinking Through Play: Activities like puzzles and jigsaws help children develop problem-solving skills and concentration in a fun, supportive environment.
Physical Confidence: Our outdoor play area encourages safe risk-taking with climbing frames, slides and ride-ons that build strength, coordination, and confidence.
Language-Rich Learning: We foster a love for language through poetry, rhymes, storytelling, and open-ended conversations that expand vocabulary and communication skills.
Group Time and Individual Voice: Children are encouraged to share their thoughts, listen to others, and express themselves in both group discussions and one-on-one moments. We endeavour to support children with love, support and trust, acknowledging that they are competent, capable and curious about the world around them and affording pathways to explore the innate curiosity.
We are open Monday to Friday, 8:00am to 5:00pm, all year round, and work closely with families to ensure a consistent and supportive experience for every child.
At West Hill and Forest School, we believe early childhood should be joyful, meaningful, and full of wonder- and we are here to make this happen.
Childcare and Education Service Available from: 8am–5pm, Monday through Friday
Service Available at: West Hill Nursery School, Rock Hill, Braunton, EX33 1AR
Phone: 01271812938 Mobile 07484140947
Email: ruth.garland@hotmail.co.uk