Why Choose Us
Outstanding teaching and learning
At Hawkinge, high-quality teaching is what we do best.
Children learn through carefully planned experiences that build on their interests, strengths and stage of development. Our curriculum encourages children to become curious, confident and independent learners, while developing the communication, language and social skills they need for future success.
Stories, books and conversation fill the day, so children build a rich vocabulary and the confidence to say what they think. Whether they are exploring, solving problems, investigating new ideas or sharing stories with friends, children are encouraged to think independently and develop a genuine love of learning.
What does Ofsted say?
“The highly qualified staff devise an exemplary curriculum.”
“Literacy is a high priority, and jubilant children are thrilled at hearing a story.”
“The exceptional staff help children to recall and build memory skills.”
“Children demonstrate exceptional attitudes to learning.”
Exceptional people
When we asked parents why they chose Hawkinge and what the nursery does best, one theme came through again and again: our team.
Families value the experience, knowledge and genuine care shown by our practitioners, and the way staff take the time to understand every child as an individual. They notice the details – what a child is interested in, where they need a little help and when they are ready for more.
Outdoor learning and the natural world
Our large outdoor learning environment gives children space to explore, investigate and learn through first-hand experiences.
Outdoor play is part of everyday nursery life, giving children opportunities to develop physical confidence, follow their curiosity and discover the natural world around them.
Children are encouraged to notice, question and talk about what they find, with practitioners using these experiences to extend children’s vocabulary and understanding.
What does Ofsted say?
“Staff ensure that children find out about the natural world. For instance, the older children are thrilled at the sight of a robin’s nest in the garden. Children comment that the daddy robin goes to get worms to feed them and then he sits on the eggs until they hatch. Furthermore, children use vocabulary such as ‘miniature’ to compare the real eggs to paper ones.”
Ready for school and beyond
Early years is an important stage of education in its own right. At Hawkinge, our focus is not simply on preparing children for school, but on helping them become capable, curious, resilient and enthusiastic learners for life.
Communication, language, literacy and independence run through everything we do, so children are well prepared for whatever comes next. Staff carefully support children through transitions, including the move to primary school, while making sure their nursery years remain rich, engaging and valuable in their own right.
Preschool children also benefit from a qualified early years teacher and French lessons at no extra cost, adding further depth to their learning and giving them opportunities to develop new skills, confidence and curiosity.
What does Ofsted say?
“Staff support children to achieve exceptionally high levels of language competence. This means they are well prepared for the next stage of their education.”
“They diligently ensure they prepare children to deal with new situations.”
What do families say?
A word from our Manager, Claire
“I am Claire and I am the Nursery Manager here at Kid Ease Hawkinge. I have worked for Kid Ease for 23 years. I am deeply passionate about early years education and creating rich, engaging learning environments where every child can thrive. I believe that every child is unique, with their own interests, strengths and individual ways of learning.
My aim is to provide children with the opportunities, experiences and support they need to explore, discover, develop confidence and reach their full potential. I believe nurseries should be a place where children feel safe, valued and curious to learn, giving every child the best possible foundations.
I enjoy engaging with parents, believing that positive relationships and good communication are essential in supporting their child’s development. Sharing achievements and listening to parents’ thoughts and their own child’s learning experiences is so rewarding. This partnership helps ensure that each child feels supported, valued and understood at both nursery and at home.”
We'd love to show you around.
Come and explore our countryside setting, meet our experienced team, and see what Kid Ease Hawkinge is like in action.