Location
Sturminster Marshall Preschool is a welcoming early years setting nestled in the heart of the rural village of Sturminster Marshall. We proudly support families not only from the village, but also from across Dorset. Our preschool benefits from sitting on the safe and secure grounds of Sturminster Marshall First School. We have a strong connection to the local community, giving children plenty of opportunities to explore, play, and build confidence in a caring environment.
Outdoor space
We are lucky to have two large outdoor spaces.
The Garden
Large grassed area, with climbing frames, slides and even a pirate ship! We have a large covered sand pit, perfect for sheltering under in the rain, or catching the shade in sun. Children have access to a herb garden, dig pit and mud kitchen. We have plenty of resources to build obstacle courses and dens.
The playground
Tarmac area for wheeled trikes and scooters. We offer ramps, beams and building materials, so children can invent their own collaborative play ideas.
The school feild
During the summer months, the first school allow us to use their large school field, for our PE and sports sessions.
The school Forest School Area
Our preschoolers, the owls, have forest school sessions once a week during the autumn and spring terms.
Our building
Sturminster Marshall Preschool is based in a large, purpose-built building. It has lots of windows to allow natural light in and views out onto our natural environment. It gives children plenty of space to learn, play, and feel at home. As an independent preschool, we offer a calm, nurturing environment where every child is known and valued.
Families are welcomed into a practical foyer area with space for coats, shoes, and parent information, alongside a private office where confidential conversations can take place. Our setting includes a kitchen, child-friendly toilets, and a spacious playroom designed to feel warm, safe, and inviting.
The playroom is thoughtfully arranged into all areas of learning, supporting children’s development through play. These include a cosy role-play corner, a calm zone for quiet time, a carpeted construction area and small world play. There’s an area for messy play where chidlren have access to sand and water, paints and playdough. We also have tables for activities and shared mealtimes. Each area encourages curiosity, creativity, independence, and confidence.
Combined with our secure school grounds and caring team, we provide children with a happy, stimulating environment and families with peace of mind.
Under 2’s (ducklings) area
Our baby room offers a safe, secure, and nurturing environment where our youngest children can feel settled and cared for. The space is carpeted and thoughtfully arranged within the main room, providing a separate area for babies while still allowing gentle interaction and socialising with older children. We provide a wide range of age-appropriate toys, books, and resources to support early development through play.
Babies have access to a calm sleep area with cots and sleep mats, ensuring rest routines are followed in a comfortable, familiar way. There are also changing facilities and direct access to their own private outdoor decking area, giving babies fresh air and outdoor experiences in a safe, enclosed space. Our caring team works closely with families to ensure each child’s individual needs and routines are met with warmth and reassurance.
