Nurturing confident learners from the very start

At Edith Kerrison Nursery School and Children’s Centre, we believe early childhood is a time to feel safe, to explore freely, and to be truly known.

We are more than just a nursery – we’re a caring community that sees each child as unique, capable and full of potential.

A Place Where Children Flourish

Our aim is simple: to give every child the best possible start in life. Whether it’s their first experience of education or a step on their journey, we work together to build strong foundations for life-long learning by supporting children’s emotional well-being, communication, creativity and independence.

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Our Approach

At the heart of our practice is a child-centered approach. We follow each child’s interests, supporting their curiosity and confidence through meaningful play, real-life experiences, and skilled adult guidance.

We know that children learn best when they feel secure and valued. That’s why relationships come first. Our experienced team builds warm, trusting connections with every child – helping them feel safe, seen, and ready to learn.

Vision Statement

Together  we  Play, Talk,  Listen  and  Learn

WE PLAY
in ways that provide opportunities for exploration, creativity, thinking and challenge.

WE TALK
to communicate and express our thoughts, ideas and feelings.

WE LISTEN
attentively to others’ ideas and views, enjoying learning and responding to our world.

WE LEARN
by persevering; we are aspirational; we empower and develop ourselves and community.

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What Makes Us Special?

“Children are happy, safe and motivated to learn” – Ofsted.

We are proud of our most recent Ofsted report, which recognised that:

“Staff have high expectations for what children can achieve”

“Children behave well. They are kind, confident and respectful.”

“The curriculum is ambitious and thoughtfully designed.”

“Children make strong progress and are well prepared for their next stage of learning.”

Caring, Experienced Team

Our staff are passionate early year’s educators who build meaningful relationships and tailor support to each child’s needs.

Emotionally Supportive Environment

We help children name and manage their feelings, develop empathy, and build friendships – with a strong focus on mental health and well-being.

Inclusive and welcoming

Every child and every family is valued here. We embrace diversity and adapt our practice so that every learner can thrive.

Beautiful Learning Spaces

Our indoor and outdoor environments are designed to inspire curiosity, independence and creativity. We spend time outside everyday – rain or shine!

Movement for Healthy Bodies and Minds

Physical development is a vital part of our curriculum. Children climb, run, balance, dig, dance and explore freely – building strong, healthy bodies and coordination. Through movement, they also learn focus, confidence, and joy in being active.

A Strong Focus on Communication

Supporting language development is a central part of our work. We create a language-rich environment where children are listened to, encouraged to express themselves, and introduced to a wide vocabulary through stories, songs, conversation, and play. We also work closely with speech and language professionals to ensure any concerns are addressed early and effectively.

Strong Family Partnerships

We work closely with parents and carers because we know children learn best when we’re working together. Your voice matters, and your child’s journey is shared.

Edith Kerrison is a truly communication-friendly setting. Staff are highly skilled at tuning in to children’s needs and supporting speech and language development from the earliest stages. Whether a child is developing typically or needs targeted support, they are given the time, attention, and tools to succeed.”

Getting Ready for what’s Next

As children grow with us, we gently guide them towards greater independence, confidence and school readiness.

We build strong foundations for lifelong learning – socially, emotionally, and academically – so that children leave us prepared and excited for primary school.

WE’D LOVE TO WELCOME YOU TO EDITH KERRISON

Come and see our nursery in action, meet our wonderful team, and find out how we can support your child to thrive.

Book a visit
Read our Full Ofsted report
Meet the Team

Core Services

We are the main centre for Custom House and Canning Town, offering the Best Start in Life initiative.

Our services are accompanied by a listening ear and kindness, which we believe are the foundations of meaningful and professional relationships.

We also guide families to other professional support, such as speech therapists and psychologists.

See our timeline of services

Nursery School

  • 15 hours of free early education for two-year-olds.
  • 15 hours of free early education for three and four-year-olds.
  • 30 hours of free early education for eligible families.
  • Book Lending Library
  • Educational Visits
  • Links with other local nurseries

Children's Centre

  • Stay-and-play sessions
  • Parent workshops and courses
  • Health services for children and families
  • Feeding and nutrition advice
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Policies

Our policies are designed to ensure a safe, nurturing environment where children can learn, blossom and grow.

Compliant with Ofsted regulations, our policies cover all aspects of care, education, and safeguarding.

We are committed to the well-being of your child.

About Ofsted.

Our People

The Nursery School and Children’s Centre are led by a senior team including the Headteacher, Assistant Headteacher, Children’s Centre Manager, and Business Manager.

The strategic direction is decided with input from the Governing Body, mostly comprised of local community residents.

Additional staff are available for projects and individual child support, along with part-time specialists including a speech and language therapist, dance therapist, music teacher, and a football coach.

Meet the team and check out our favourite childhood books! 😊