For our youngest · 9 months – 2 years

St Nicolas at Dorney

A warm, gentle first step for babies and toddlers — the start of the St Nicolas journey, close to home in Dorney.

A gentle first step

Our Dorney setting is designed especially for our youngest learners, from 9 months to 2 years. It is a safe, secure and stimulating place where babies and toddlers are cared for with all the warmth St Nicolas is known for.

At this age, routine is everything. We follow each child’s own rhythm for feeds, naps and play, working closely with you so the day at Dorney feels like a natural extension of home.

Dorney is registered with Ofsted and is awaiting its first inspection, having opened more recently than Taplow. You can read our Taplow inspection report, which gives a good sense of how we care for children across both settings.

A typical day at Dorney

Days balance responsive, loving care with plenty of play — all guided by the Early Years Foundation Stage:

Essential care — feeding, changing, comforting and plenty of cuddles.
Play-based learning — sensory play, songs, stories and gentle discovery.
Outdoor adventures — fresh air and first explorations of the world outside.

A natural move to Taplow

When your child is ready — usually around their second birthday — they can move on to our Taplow playgroup for ages 2 to school age. Because it is all St Nicolas, the move is a familiar, reassuring one for children and families alike.