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Nursery at The Manor Preparatory School
Last reviewed: October 2026 · Inspection data and key information above update regularly, however, this review below is refreshed bi-annually and may not reflect recent changes. Contact the nursery directly to confirm current arrangements. If you spot anything outdated or inaccurate, please let us know.
Caterpillars becoming butterflies, sand and water play, and painting give The Manor’s nursery a character rooted in discovery. Its two stages are Pre-Nursery: The Nest and Nursery: The Warren, for children aged 2 to 3 and 3 to 4 respectively. They form part of the independent, mixed school in Abingdon.
At the November 2024 inspection, Pre-Nursery accommodated 24 children, while Nursery had capacity for 32. These are distinct age groups within the school’s early years provision, rather than a single group spanning the nursery years.
Play gives children room to follow their interests. In November 2024, ISI found that children across the early years made good progress through a planned curriculum and individual support, with language and communication a particular strength. Adults extended play through questions and conversation. For parents, that means children’s chosen activities also become opportunities to practise speaking, listening and explaining their ideas.
The Early Years Foundation Stage framework shapes this learning across seven areas. Nursery activities include watching the butterfly life cycle, making crafts and experimenting with sand, water and paint. There is something concrete to investigate, manipulate or create, giving young children reasons to ask questions and try things out.
Space supports that exploration. In November 2024, each of the three early years buildings had substantial space both inside and outdoors, with equipment for developing hand control and larger movements. The early years environment supported children’s curiosity and creativity during play they initiated themselves.
Emotional learning has practical tools. In November 2024, early years children used zones of regulation and moved a pebble to show their feelings during the day. Safe spaces and friendship stops offered support, while helpful hippo and go for it gorilla gave children characters to emulate. These make feelings and confidence tangible for young children. Staff relationships helped children feel secure and enjoy their activities; early years safeguarding and welfare requirements were in place.
For medication, nursery parents liaise with their child’s Key Person, and administration requires a signed consent form. Parents supply nappies while their child needs them. The Learning Support Department is accessible to children and parents, with specialist teachers and learning support assistants providing targeted group work in the Cottage. Individual specialist lessons can also be provided, giving families several forms of support to discuss.
Lunch and snacks are included in fees. Vegetarian choices are provided at both snack and mealtimes, and medical, allergy, religious and cultural dietary needs are catered for. Separate meals based solely on individual food preferences are not offered. Holroyd Howe cannot guarantee freedom from allergen traces, so families managing allergies should arrange the offered meeting with the catering manager and school to discuss requirements.
Nursery attendance does not guarantee a Reception place. Ask the school’s admissions team to confirm the Reception entry arrangements for children already attending nursery. The school’s application process covers entry from Pre-Nursery onwards and includes registration, a Taster Day/Visit, a formal offer and acceptance. These entry arrangements should be distinguished from a child’s familiarity with the school.
For children aged 3+, included wraparound care runs from 8:00am to 5:30pm. The age threshold matters when planning childcare for a younger Pre-Nursery child. Fees also include books, most equipment and educational visits during the school day; specific additional educational support, including for SEND or EAL, is charged separately.
Children aged 3 and 4 can access up to a maximum of 15 funded hours each week through Early Education Funding. Ask the school for current charges and how funding applies to your chosen sessions. Enquiries go to admissions@manorprep.org, and families can arrange a Private Visit or attend an Open Event. Before starting, parents complete medical and emergency contact information and identify adults authorised to collect their child.
Pre-Nursery takes children aged 2 to 3; Nursery is for ages 3 to 4. The stages are named The Nest and The Warren.
Activities include observing caterpillars becoming butterflies, sand and water play, painting and crafts. Adults extend early years play through conversation and questions.
Lunches and snacks are included in fees. Vegetarian options are available, and dietary needs are catered for, but allergen traces cannot be ruled out.
For ages 3 and 4, Early Education Funding covers up to a maximum of 15 hours each week. Included wraparound care for children aged 3+ runs from 8:00am to 5:30pm.
No. Nursery attendance does not guarantee a Reception place. Ask the school’s admissions team to confirm the entry arrangements for children already attending nursery.
