Children enjoy sociable mealtimes and a variety of tastes and textures to promote healthy eating. All our menus are planned to meet the standards for early years. For details of our food provider, menus, and allergy policies, please contact the nursery office.
Welcome to
The Woodlands Nursery
The Woodlands Nursery is based in Newton-le-Willows.
Learning and play rooted in happiness, wellbeing and outdoor learning.
We believe that happy, active children thrive. Our passionate team delivers early years education focused on outdoor exploration, independence, and emotional wellbeing.
Our Rooms
We prepare children for school with a focus on independence, confidence, and creativity. Every child can access all areas of learning, and outdoor opportunities are woven into each day and at every stage of their individual development.
Nutritious and Healthy Food
Curriculum & Learning
We follow the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) curriculum, enriched by a child-led philosophy. Outdoor exploration, self-led learning and open-ended play are central to our approach.
We believe that children learn best in an environment that supports confidence, creativity and a love of learning.
Partnership with Parents
We believe parents are partners in every child’s education. We operate an open-door policy—families are welcome to visit or speak to staff at any time.
- Regular updates on your child’s progress
- Stay-and-play sessions, learning journeys, and parent consultations
Curriculum
We offer a flexible and holistic curriculum:
- A balance of adult-led and child-initiated learning
- Playful and practical experiences connected to real life
- High expectations within an inclusive and nurturing setting
Supportive of each child’s natural pace of development
Funding
30 hours funded childcare
Most working parents may be eligible for up to 30 hours of funded childcare per week for children aged from 9 months through to 4 years old. Eligibility depends on employment status, income levels, your child’s age and where you live.
Funding is normally provided across the 38 week school year. At The Woodlands Nursery we offer the option to stretch funding across 52 weeks of the year, allowing families to spread their funded hours more evenly.
Check eligibility at: gov.uk
15 hours funded childcare
All parents are entitled to 15 hours of funded childcare for children aged 3 and 4 years old from the term after their third birthday.
Many working parents may also qualify for Tax-Free Childcare, which can help families save up to £2,000 per year.
Check eligibility at: gov.uk
Book early
Our spaces fill very quickly, so we recommend you enquire as early as possible to secure the sessions and start date you require.
A Word About Play
At The Woodlands Nursery, play is purposeful and empowering. Each child is supported to follow their interests, explore freely, and develop their unique strengths through play.
✅ Children decide their level of adult support
✅ Opportunities are inclusive and open-ended
✅ A mix of solitary and social play, structured and free
We believe that learning and play are rooted in happiness, wellbeing and outdoor learning.
SEND Provision
We welcome and support all children, including those with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities. Every child at The Willows is valued as an individual. Where additional support is needed, we work in partnership with parents and professionals to create tailored learning journeys.
Our inclusive practice ensures all children can access our curriculum, environment and activities with confidence and joy.