Orchard Barns Ardleigh

Redbury Barn, Colchester Road, Ardleigh, Colchester CO7 7PQ
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8.5 52 Reviews
  • Orchard Barns Ardleigh, Colchester
Orchard Barns Ardleigh is a beautiful nursery providing care and education for children aged 3 months to 5 years from Monday to Friday 8am to 6pm.

The nursery is easily accessible from the A12 and A120 and is five minutes from Manningtree railway station, so is ideal for commuters.

Orchard Barns offers exceptional outside play space, forest school-themed sessions and outdoor classrooms along with an expertly designed indoor space providing well planned and stimulating environments with carefully chosen high quality furnishings and equipment.

The Nursery’s approach goes above and beyond the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) to foster deep level learning and optimise potential. They offer a range of unique educational experiences which enable children to become successful, lifelong learners including, Wake up and shake up, a range of bespoke activities which promote your child’s well-being and confidence, and Garden Champions.

Garden Champions is the Nursery's own bespoke Above and Beyond Educational Experience gardening activity. This activity extends children’s knowledge of the outdoor environment, habitats, caring for living things, growth cycles and growing vegetation outdoors.

The Garden Champion activities are an effective method of harnessing the children’s curiosity in this area and shaping their understanding of the world around them. Staff are supported to deliver these sessions through The Royal Horticultural Society’s School Gardening Awards scheme.

The Nursery Chef prepares all the children’s meals fresh on the premises each day, and the menus have been designed using the latest nutritional software to ensure they are nutritionally balanced, as well as delicious.

The dedicated staff team support children to fulfil their potential through a range of engaging experiences and learning opportunities, which are tailored to each child’s own developmental needs and interests.
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Type of Service

  • Day Nursery
  • Open all year
  • Full Day Care
  • Sessional Day Care

Group/Owner

Person in Charge

  • Clare Evans (Manager)

Number of Childcare Staff

  • 24

Total Places for Children

  • 68

Age Range

  • from 0 years 3 months
  • to 5 years 0 months

Funding & Fees

  • Please contact us for a copy of our current fees or for any information on funding.

Opening Times

  • Monday 08:00-18:00
    Tuesday 08:00-18:00
    Wednesday 08:00-18:00
    Thursday 08:00-18:00
    Friday 08:00-18:00

When Closed

  • Bank Holidays & 1 week at Christmas

Orchard Barns Ardleigh Reviews (52)

8.5

Orchard Barns Ardleigh has a Review Score of 8.5 (8.502) out of 10, based on 6 reviews in the last 2 years.
Over all time Orchard Barns Ardleigh has 52 reviews.

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Reviewer Connection to Orchard Barns Ardleigh
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Review from D H (Father of Child) published on 5 September 2025 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 2.0 out of 5
Behind the friendly front, this nursery is run by a head office that puts profits before families.
We stayed loyal to Orchard Barns Ardleigh despite it receiving a poor Ofsted review, because we didn't want to disrupt our children.
That loyalty was rewarded with two fee increases in less than a year,
adding over £3,000 extra for one child.
We rejected the September 2023 increase in writing and asked multiple times to discuss it - no meeting was ever arranged. In our final month we accidentally overpaid (partly because no final invoice was issued) and the nursery has refused to refund the money.
While some of the staff are caring, the management's handling of fees, communication and fairness is unacceptable. I would strongly recommend parents look elsewhere - behind the scenes this nursery is not being run in the best interests of families or children.
Reply from Sophie Brooks, Manager at Orchard Barns Ardleigh
Thank you for your review, your opinion matters to us here at Orchard Barns. As you are aware your query is being dealt with by our head office.
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Review from C P (Mother of Child) published on 10 July 2025 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
Our children are so so happy at the nursery. The staff are caring and considerate of their and our families needs. I would recommend this nursery and the staff. They work very hard to make the day varied and exciting.
Reply from Sophie Brooks, Manager at Orchard Barns Ardleigh
Thank you so much for your lovely feed back it means a lot to us, both children will be truly missed here at Orchard Barns!
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Review from S W (Mother of Child) published on 4 July 2025 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
My son has now been at Orchard Barns for 2.5 years and in that time has grown and developed so much. He has so much fun with his friends and is always so full of beans when I go to pick him up. Now he's in the pre-school room he's in full preparation mode for when he goes to school in September and
I feel really confident he'll be in a great position for that transition. My daughter also recently started at the nursery in the pre-toddlers room. The staff have been really supportive and reassuring as she's been settling in, with plenty of updates during the day which has been really helpful at such an emotional time as I head back to work after maternity leave.
Reply from Sophie Brooks, Manager at Orchard Barns Ardleigh
Thank you for your lovely feedback, it means so much to us! I'm glad that you have felt reassured whilst your daughter has settled here with us and that your son has enjoyed his time here with us at…read more
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Review from B A (Father of Child) published on 3 July 2025 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
We've had such a positive experience with this nursery. The staff are warm, caring, and genuinely invested in the children's development. My little one settled in quickly, which really put my mind at ease. Communication is great, and I love the updates and photos we receive-it's lovely seeing what they
get up to each day. The environment is clean, safe, and full of engaging activities. I've seen such a boost in my child's confidence and social skills since starting here. Highly recommend to any parent looking for a nurturing and supportive setting!
Reply from Sophie Brooks, Manager at Orchard Barns Ardleigh
Thank you for your kind feedback it means a lot to us! We are glad that your mind was put to ease whilst your child was going through the settling in process.
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Review from mykela m (Mother of Child) published on 2 July 2025 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
My daughter has attended Orchard Barns for the past 18 months. Any anticipation was very quickly eased as on show around my daughter ran off to play and didn't want to leave. She has completely thrived at Orchard Barns. The staff are very friendly and approachable and help with any thing you need. They
do loads of activities and events throughout the year, including having a photographer in twice a year. My daughter even when she was quite fussy with food, eats everything of Gary's cooking, she loves it. I can't thank the Orchard Barns team enough for all their care and help in enabling our daughter to grow and learn.
Reply from Sophie Brooks, Manager at Orchard Barns Ardleigh
Thank you for your kind feedback, it means a lot to us, the chef will be pleased to hear that his cooking is loved!
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Review from Hannah T (Mother of Child) published on 2 July 2025 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
My daughter has been at orchard barns since she was a baby and will be leaving this September to go to school. My son is currently in the pretoddler room. We joined at a time when there was a lot of change within the nursery and it's evident how things have turned around in that time. With new management
and strong room leadership, we've really seen a change in the nursery. Both of my children absolutely love going in, and have really strong relationships with all the staff. I always feel like I can discuss anything with their key people and feel reassured that we are working in partnership to support my children. The space itself is lovely with a big outdoor garden and outdoor classrooms for each room. There are always interesting activities going on and both of my children have developed really quickly. I know my daughter will really miss going and will particularly miss all the staff who she loves. Highly recommend and definitely worth a visit.
Reply from Sophie Brooks, Manager at Orchard Barns Ardleigh
Thank you for your kind feedback, it means a lot to us. I'm glad both children enjoy coming to nursery and that you feel comfortable to raise anything with staff.
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Review from Simon E (Father of Child) published on 1 September 2023 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
The staff at Orchard Barns have been lovely and so supportive of our daughter who started there as a baby and has now reached the age of 4 and has left to start primary school.


We are very grateful to you all for helping our daughter grow into the lovely little girl that she is! She definitely is

ready for school, thanks to you all, but already misses all of the lovely staff and her friends from “Barns” as she still calls it!


I hope you continue to be popular and a wonderful place for young people to thrive.

Reply from Clair Hallums, Manager at Orchard Barns Ardleigh
Thank you for your kind words. It has been our absolute pleasure to have supported her journey and we miss her in the preschool room too. We all wish her a lovely first day at school.
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Review from Rebecca P (Mother of Child) published on 6 July 2023 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
The staff team at the nursery are amazing. They are willing to support and be a listening ear with family concerns. The staff are kind and caring. I can not thank them enough for supporting my daughter and getting her the help that she needs and deserves.
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Review from Lorna N (Mother of Child) published on 27 June 2023 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
My son is always very happy to attend nursery, never hesitates to run into the classroom!
The staff are always happy and friendly and have really taken the time to get to know him and understand his daily routine.
He has progressed significantly since starting at Orchard Barns and I’m always surprised
when he comes home with something new to show me.
Reply from Clair Hallums, Manager at Orchard Barns Ardleigh
Thank you for your review. We are pleased to hear that you are happy with the care and learning your child receives at Orchard Barns Ardleigh.
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Review from S R (Father of Child) published on 27 June 2023 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 4.0 out of 5
My son has only been coming to the setting since October last year but we can already see a huge difference in his confidence and overall self. This is because of the care he receives from all staff at Orchard Barns Ardleigh. Would definitely recommend it to anyone who is looking for a childcare setting
for their child.
Reply from Clair Hallums, Manager at Orchard Barns Ardleigh
Thank you for your review and recommendation. We are very pleased to hear the progress your son is making with us.
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Review from Sarah P (Mother of Child) published on 26 September 2022 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
My daughter enjoys her time at Orchard Barns so much. Everyday at pick up she has a huge smile on her face and she has made so many friends. She adores the staff and always enjoys her meals. I throughly recommend this nursery.
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Review from Jenny H (Great-grandmother of Child) published on 6 August 2021 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
My great-grandson adores the nursery. When we pick him up, the staff are so lovely and friendly. They have recently climbed up Mount Snowdon to raise money for three of the children who attend the nursery. Couldn’t wish for a better team to look after the children.
Reply from The Staff Team, Manager at Orchard Barns Ardleigh
Thank you for your kind review; we are delighted to read your positive feedback on our nursery.
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Review from Trevor W (Father of Child) published on 2 August 2021 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
We are so happy we have found such a supportive nursery with fantastic staff. Our child, who has complex needs, has never phased the staff, and they have created a wonderful environment for her to thrive in. I cannot recommend this nursery enough.
Reply from The Staff Team, Manager at Orchard Barns Ardleigh
Thank you for your great review; we are delighted to hear your positive feedback.
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Review from Charlotte K (Mother of Child) published on 10 May 2021 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
I would one hundred per cent recommend Orchard Barns Ardleigh. They have been amazing with supporting my child from fourteen months old. Nothing is ever too much trouble and they have a great understanding of my child’s needs and will do anything to help develop him.
Reply from The Staff Team, Manager at Orchard Barns Ardleigh
Thank you for your lovely review, we are delighted to hear your positive feedback.
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Review from Rhianna E (Mother of Child) published on 12 March 2021 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
My daughter absolutely loves attending Orchard Barns Ardleigh, she is always so happy to go in and has the best time. I would highly recommend them, she has settled in so quickly and the portal for communication is so helpful, it's lovely to see what she gets up to every day.
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Review from Michelle B (Mother of Child) published on 15 January 2021 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
Orchard Barns is an extremely friendly nursery, my daughter has settled well after changing to this nursery, they provide and create such amazing activities for the children to partake in to help them learn through playing and encouraging their imagination. They are attentive to the children’s needs
and provide healthy meals throughout the day. The outdoor space is lovely with plenty to do for all ages. I would highly recommend this nursery.
Reply from The Staff Team, Manager at Orchard Barns Ardleigh
Thank you for your kind review and feedback. We are delighted to hear about your experience with us.
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Review from Tracy R (Grandmother of Child) published on 11 January 2021 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
My grandson attends the nursery. He has become a very confident little boy since joining. The staff are amazing and very welcoming. The standard of care is second to none and I would highly recommend. He is always talking about the lunches he receives which are cooked daily on-site by the chef.
Reply from The Staff Team, Manager at Orchard Barns Ardleigh
Thank you for your kind review, we are delighted to hear your positive feedback.
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Review from Gary R (Father of Child) published on 11 January 2021 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
Our son has absolutely thrived at Orchard Barns. They approach each child individually and ensure all their needs are met. Support for parents is also more than expected. The whole team are outstanding.
Reply from The Staff Team, Manager at Orchard Barns Ardleigh
Thank you for your lovely review, we are delighted to hear what a positive journey you and your son are having with us.
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Review from Crystal G (Godmother of Child) published on 7 January 2021 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
Fantastic setting. I always enjoy picking up my godson from here as the staff are so lovely and helpful. The menu is very diverse and offers a range of quality food. The nursery is very efficient in keeping us up to date with the current situation and guidance.
Reply from The Staff Team, Manager at Orchard Barns Ardleigh
Thank you for your great review, we are delighted to hear your positive feedback on our Nursery.
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Review from Paul U (Father of Child) published on 19 November 2020 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
My son started at Orchard Barns when he was 6 months old and finished when he turned 4. Going back to work and having to leave your 6-month-old child with people is a tough thing to deal with as a parent. However, I can honestly say the team at Orchards Barns exceeded expectations in all areas. The
consistent information they give you via parent zone (app on your phone) to the kindness they give you at the door at drop off and pick up. I am a musician and they welcomed me in when my son was a year to come and play some songs to the little ones. Food that was served was something that I daily felt jealous of when looking at my own lunch. My son learnt so much during his time and I loved watching him soak it all up. I feel they helped shape his personality and confidence that he has. They fully got him up to speed in a difficult 2020 so he was ready for school. Not only did they care for my son but they showed him love. My daughter starts next year and I cant wait. Wonderful kind people.
Reply from The Staff Team, Manager at Orchard Barns Ardleigh
Thank you for your wonderful review, we are delighted to hear how much your son developed with us and we cannot wait to welcome your daughter.
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Current Review Score: 8.5 (8.502)

Overview of Review Score

The Review Score of 8.5 (8.502) out of 10 for Orchard Barns Ardleigh is based on a) the Average Rating and b) the number of positive Reviews.

  1. The Average Rating is 4.6 out of 5 from 6 Reviews in the last 24 months.
  2. The score for the number of positive Reviews is 3.9 out of 5 from 5 positive Reviews in the last 24 months.

Detailed Breakdown of Review Score

The maximum Review Score for a Day Nursery is 10, which is made up from the Average Rating of Reviews (maximum of 5 points) and the Number of Reviews (maximum of 5 points) in the last 24 months:

  1. 5 Points are available for the Average Rating from all Reviews in the last 24 months. The Average Rating of 4.634 for Orchard Barns Ardleigh is calculated as follows: ( (59 Excellents x 5) + (4 Goods x 4) + (4 Satisfactorys x 3) + (2 Poors x 2) + (2 Very Poors x 1) ) ÷ 71 Ratings = 4.634
  2. 5 Points are available for the number of Positive Reviews in the last 24 months. A Positive Review is defined as any Review with an 'Overall Experience' of '4' or '5' (out of a max rating '5'). The 3.868 Points relating to the number of positive Reviews for Orchard Barns Ardleigh is based on 5 positive Reviews in the last 24 months and is calculated as per below:

    The 5 points available are broken down as follows:

    1. 4 points are available for the first 10 Positive Reviews in the last 24 months; 3 points for the first Positive Review, and then 0.125 Points for each of the next four Positive Reviews and then 0.1 Points for the next five Positive Reviews. (1st = 3.000, 2nd = 0.125, 3rd = 0.125, 4th = 0.125, 5th = 0.125, 6th = 0.100, 7th = 0.100, 8th = 0.100, 9th = 0.100, 10th = 0.100) 3 + 0.125 + 0.125 + 0.125 + 0.125 = 3.5
    2. 1 point is available for the number of Positive Reviews reaching 20% of the number of registered child places in the last 24 months. If this number is partially reached, then that proportion of 1 point is given. eg a Day Nursery registered for a maximum of 50 child places has to reach 10 Positive Reviews to receive 1 point, if it has 7 reviews it will receive 0.7 points. 20% of the 68 number of registered child places is 13.6. 5 Positive Reviews ÷ 13.6 = 0.368
  3. When a Review is submitted by someone who has previously submitted a Review, only the latest Review will count towards the Review Score.
  4. If a Day Nursery does not have a review in the last 24 months, then it will not have a Review Score.

Child Vacancies

Please contact us for latest vacancies.

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Awards / Recognitions (6)

Meet the Team (0)

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Frequently Asked Questions about Orchard Barns Ardleigh

What is the Age Range of Children that Orchard Barns Ardleigh accepts?

Orchard Barns Ardleigh accepts Children aged from 0 years 3 months to 5 years 0 months.

What Days & Hours is Orchard Barns Ardleigh Open?

Orchard Barns Ardleigh is open: Monday 08:00-18:00, Tuesday 08:00-18:00, Wednesday 08:00-18:00, Thursday 08:00-18:00, Friday 08:00-18:00.

How many Children does Orchard Barns Ardleigh have capacity for?

Orchard Barns Ardleigh has capacity for a total of 68 Children.

How far is Orchard Barns Ardleigh to the centre of Colchester?

3.4 mile(s) as the crow flies, distance by road may be significantly further.

Information on this page is displayed without responsibility for its accuracy on the part of daynurseries.co.uk. Please contact Orchard Barns Ardleigh to verify any information. View our terms and conditions. Orchard Barns Ardleigh has an Enhanced Service - more info.