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The nursery has been thoughtfully adapted to create a well-equipped early years setting, including a modern pod extension that provides additional learning space for children as they develop.
Conveniently located in Oakdale, Poole, just off the A3049 and close to Canford Heath, the nursery is...
Croft Day Nursery in Oakdale is based in a beautifully converted former Methodist church, offering a bright, airy and spacious environment for children to learn and grow.
The nursery has been thoughtfully adapted to create a well-equipped early years setting, including a modern pod extension that provides additional learning space for children as they develop.
Conveniently located in Oakdale, Poole, just off the A3049 and close to Canford Heath, the nursery is easily accessible for families. It is situated on Oakdale Road, within walking distance of local amenities including the Co-op.
At Nursery, children are supported in a welcoming and engaging environment where they can explore, build confidence and develop a love of learning.
Type of Service
- Day Nursery
Opening Schedule
Open all yearAttendance patterns offered
All Year
Minimum attendance
- 3 days per week
Full days available
YesGroup / Owner
- Croft Day Nurseries
- Private Owned
Person in charge
- Lauren Cook (Manager)
Number of Childcare Staff
- 26
Total Places for Children
- 91
Age Range
- from 0 years 3 months
- to 5 years 0 months
Meals Provided
YesMeal Types Provided
Breakfast, Dinner / Tea, Lunch, Snacks
Consumables provided
YesConsumables provided include
Nappies, Suncream, Wipes
Opening Times
- Monday07:30-18:00
- Tuesday07:30-18:00
- Wednesday07:30-18:00
- Thursday07:30-18:00
- Friday07:30-18:00
When Closed
- Bank Holidays & 1 week at Christmas
Parking
- Parking at the rear of the building on Brampton Road.
Funding & Fees
Typical monthly cost for a 3-days place
£350/ month
An early start time of 07:30 is available upon request at an extra charge of £7.50 per session.
An early start time of 07:30 is available upon request at an extra charge of £7.50 per session.
The Dining and Nutrition Package covers all meals and snacks provided during funded hours, including breakfast, lunch, dinner, desserts, healthy snacks and fresh fruit. It also includes the nursery's additional products and services. The package costs £15 per funded day and is already included in the published funded fee rates.
Calculated from data given to us by this nursery. Your final quote may vary slightly.
Averaged monthly figure. Actual billing varies; some nurseries bill weekly or by use.Defaults shown
9 months to 2 years • 3-days • 30 hours funding • all year
How this price scales (per month)
3 days per week
£350
4 days per week
£783
5 days per week
£1,217
Adjust for your situation
What this price covers
- Standard chargeable day 8:00am to 6:00pm (10 hours)
- 22.4 funded hours used per week. Remaining hours charged privately.
- Included in this price: Breakfast, Dinner / Tea, Lunch, Snacks, Nappies, Suncream and Wipes
Price without government funding: £1,300 / month (£100 / day)
If you're not eligible or haven't claimed funded hours.More info
- £950/month more than the funded price.
- This is what you'd pay if your child is under 9 months, or if you're not eligible for or haven't claimed funded hours.
About this price
How funding is applied, how the monthly figure is calculated.More info
- Working parents of children aged 9 months to 2 years can usually claim up to 30 funded hours a week. The working-parent hours depend on each parent meeting the minimum earnings rules and earning under £100,000 a year. This nursery stretches funded hours across 51 weeks of the year. You've selected 30 funded hours.
- This nursery applies up to 10 funded hours per day, stretched across 51 weeks of the year. With your selected funding, 22.4 hours are covered each week. Hours beyond this, including the early and late parts of the day, are charged at the standard rate.
- We work out the total cost across the year and divide by 12, so the figure shown is a smoothed monthly average. In practice, nurseries bill in different ways. Some bill monthly at this average. Others bill weekly, or charge for what happened that week or month, which can vary across the year. Confirm billing details with the nursery when you enquire.
Contact Croft Day Nursery - Oakdale to get a personalised quote:
Croft Day Nursery - Oakdale Reviews (66)
Croft Day Nursery - Oakdale has a Review Score of 9.9 (9.925) out of 10, based on 18 reviews in the last 2 years.
Over all time Croft Day Nursery - Oakdale has 66 reviews.
This is hands down the best nursery. I feel privileged to have found a setting with such wonderful staff. Every member of staff is so friendly, patient, welcoming and nurturing. They really do go above and beyond to make the children comfortable and happy and to encourage them in everything they...
I've found the staff to be great at communicating with parents in all aspects from events to personal achievements of your children. They offer a huge range of activities for the children and have recently added a cookery club which is a huge favourite for my child who loves to bake and cook.
I would recommend this setting to every parent looking for somewhere for their children to thrive and to develop a love of learning through play.
My children have both attended this nursery since 2023 and I cannot thank the staff enough for helping me raise my children into kind, creative and happy little humans. I think of the staff here as an extension of my family because they have played such an important part in mine and the kids lives....
They will be leaving this year to go to school in September and it genuinely breaks my heart that they are coming to the end of their time here but I'm also so grateful for how they have helped them prepare for school.
They know my kids inside out and every tiny milestone is noticed and encouraged by them.
My kids are really so happy here and if I were to have any more, I wouldn't even think of looking elsewhere.
My son started The Croft when he was 10 months old and 10 months later he is thriving there. At the start, drop offs were difficult with lots of tears but the girls that work there were so warm and welcoming it made it that bit easier. He now runs in without looking back and comes out with a...
My son started The Croft when he was 10 months old and 10 months later he is thriving there. At the start, drop offs were difficult with lots of tears but the girls that work there were so warm and welcoming it made it that bit easier. He now runs in without looking back and comes out with a beaming smile on his face. We have never had any issues and I couldn't recommend this nursery more! Since being at The Croft, my son is learning so many new skills daily and has become so confident, it is a big credit to the girls who take good care of him in the baby room with lots of activities for them to do! They are all so friendly and easy to talk to and I am so happy we chose to send him there!
Starting nursery is a huge milestone for both children and their families, so we're delighted to hear how your son has grown in confidence over the past ten months. Knowing that he now runs in with a smile and leaves just as happy is wonderful...
Thank you so much for sharing your experience with us.Starting nursery is a huge milestone for both children and their families, so we're delighted to hear how your son has grown in confidence over the past ten months. Knowing that he now runs in with a smile and leaves just as happy is wonderful to hear.
Our baby room team work incredibly hard to create a nurturing environment where every child feels safe, nurtured and encouraged to explore at their own pace. I'm sure they'll be so pleased to hear that their care, patience and support made those early drop-offs a little easier for your family.
It's also fantastic to hear how much your son is learning and developing through the activities and experiences on offer each day.
Thank you for your recommendation and for trusting us to be part of such an important stage in your son's early years. It is a privilege to watch him continue to grow and thrive.
My son has been attending since he was nine months old and has consistently enjoyed his time there. As he prepares to start school in September, his time with you is drawing to a close. The staff in each room have significantly contributed to his development, preparing him wonderfully for his...
I am incredibly grateful to all the staff for their dedication and efforts. The management team and the staff are truly exceptional, and they perform their duties admirably. I am so pleased that my son had the opportunity to know all of you.
It has been a privilege to watch your son grow from a curious nine-month-old into a confident, school-ready young boy. Being part of that journey is something we never take for granted, and we're so pleased to hear that each stage of his time with us has helped...
Thank you for your heartfelt review.It has been a privilege to watch your son grow from a curious nine-month-old into a confident, school-ready young boy. Being part of that journey is something we never take for granted, and we're so pleased to hear that each stage of his time with us has helped prepare him for this exciting next chapter.
Your kind words about both our team and us as the management team mean a great deal. We are incredibly proud of the caring, dedicated relationships our staff build with every child and family, and I'll be sure to share your lovely feedback with everyone at nursery.
While we'll be sad to see your son leave us, we couldn't be happier that he's ready for his next adventure. We wish him every success as he starts school in September and thank you for allowing us to be part of his early years.
All the staff at The Croft Oakdale are absolutely lovely. My little boy runs in everyday and always gets so excited when we arrive, not wanting to wait a second before he goes in. The staff do activities that facilitate learning and exploration and my son is developing in his motor skills and...
All the staff at The Croft Oakdale are absolutely lovely. My little boy runs in everyday and always gets so excited when we arrive, not wanting to wait a second before he goes in. The staff do activities that facilitate learning and exploration and my son is developing in his motor skills and communication largely due to their influence .
Hearing that your little boy can't wait to get through the door each morning really makes us smile! Knowing that he feels so happy, settled and excited to come to nursery is the greatest compliment we could receive.
We're delighted that you've noticed the...
Thank you so much for your kind review.Hearing that your little boy can't wait to get through the door each morning really makes us smile! Knowing that he feels so happy, settled and excited to come to nursery is the greatest compliment we could receive.
We're delighted that you've noticed the range of learning experiences we provide and the progress he's making in his motor skills and communication. Our team love creating engaging activities that encourage children to explore, discover and grow at their own pace.
Thank you for your lovely words about our staff. I'll be sure to share your feedback with the team, who will be delighted to know they've made such a positive impact on your son's early years journey.
We couldn't be happier with The Croft at Oakdale. The staff are absolutely fantastic and always put the children's needs first. They're so caring, approachable and always happy to talk through things, provide advice or reassurance whenever needed. And communication is excellent, with regular...
Our child loves coming here and walks straight in without looking back, which says everything about how happy and comfortable he feels with the staff and setting. It also has such a warm, family feel which was important to us.
There are always so many fun and engaging activities happening and it's been wonderful to see his confidence and development grow.
We couldn't be happier with our choice of nursery and would highly recommend it to any parent looking for a nurturing, supportive, and inspiring environment for their child.
Knowing that your child walks in each day happy and confident is one of the biggest compliments we could receive. We work hard to create an environment where children feel secure, valued and excited to learn, so it's fantastic to hear...
Thank you so much for your wonderful review and recommendation.Knowing that your child walks in each day happy and confident is one of the biggest compliments we could receive. We work hard to create an environment where children feel secure, valued and excited to learn, so it's fantastic to hear this is your experience.
We're delighted that you've recognised the dedication of our team. Building strong relationships with families is incredibly important to us, and we're so pleased you've found us approachable, supportive and easy to communicate with.
It's also lovely to hear that our warm, family atmosphere stood out to you. We believe that feeling of belonging helps children thrive, and we're delighted to have been part of your child's early years journey.
Thank you again for your kind words and for placing your trust in us.
The facilities are very nice and it looks even better with the new look.
What i like is that when we pick her up the staff tell us how shes doing and what shes been upto that day.
Xx
The facilities are very nice and it looks even better with the new look.
What i like is that when we pick her up the staff tell us how shes doing and what shes been upto that day.
Xx
We're so pleased to hear that your daughter enjoys coming to nursery and that you've had such a positive experience with our team. It's wonderful to know you've noticed the improvements to our setting too; we're really proud of the fresh...
Thank you for taking the time to leave us a lovely review.We're so pleased to hear that your daughter enjoys coming to nursery and that you've had such a positive experience with our team. It's wonderful to know you've noticed the improvements to our setting too; we're really proud of the fresh new look and the environment we are creating for our children.
Keeping families updated at the end of each day is something we really value, so it's great to hear that these conversations help you feel involved in your daughter's nursery experience.
It's only a small nursery but this is what makes it special. A lovely,...
It's only a small nursery but this is what makes it special. A lovely, lovely place!
It means so much to hear from families who have been with us through each stage of their child's nursery journey. Watching children grow from the baby room all the way through to pre-school is one of the most rewarding parts of what we do, and we're so pleased...
Thank you for your lovely review.It means so much to hear from families who have been with us through each stage of their child's nursery journey. Watching children grow from the baby room all the way through to pre-school is one of the most rewarding parts of what we do, and we're so pleased your daughter continues to love coming to nursery.
We're especially grateful for your kind words about our team and for trusting us to provide a safe, caring and happy environment for your daughter, we believe it helps us build strong relationships with every child and family, creating the warm, welcoming atmosphere that makes our nursery so special.
Our son has always been very quiet, a late speaker and played independently. The Croft has helped him come along leaps and bounds, encouraging him and teaching him so many new skills; His vocabulary has come along so much with...
Our son has always been very quiet, a late speaker and played independently. The Croft has helped him come along leaps and bounds, encouraging him and teaching him so many new skills; His vocabulary has come along so much with a great level of understanding, and he has friends who he plays with, AND talks about at home, which he never did previously and is so lovely to hear and see him bond and make new friends.
I love seeing him excited to go in, and I love how happy he is when he comes out and tells me about his day.
The staff are wonderful, supportive, kind and encouraging, and provide such a great range of activities.
We are enrolling our youngest son soon too, and am sure he will enjoy it and flourish as much as his big brother.
Reading about your son's journey with us is incredibly special. Seeing children grow in confidence, develop their communication skills and build meaningful friendships is exactly what we strive for every day, so it's...
Thank you so much for taking the time to leave such a thoughtful reviewReading about your son's journey with us is incredibly special. Seeing children grow in confidence, develop their communication skills and build meaningful friendships is exactly what we strive for every day, so it's wonderful to hear how much he has flourished since joining us.
We're delighted that he enjoys coming to nursery each day and loves sharing his adventures with you at home. I'll be sure to pass your lovely comments on to the team, who will be so proud to know the positive difference they've made.
We are also thrilled that you'll soon be joining us again with your youngest son. We can't wait to welcome him into The Croft family and look forward to supporting him on his own exciting learning journey.
Thank you once again for your kind words and for trusting us to be part of your children's early years.
What an amazing nursery!! My son has been attending since May 2024! He's grown and learnt so much along the way and that is all thanks to the incredible staff!! Not forgetting Lauren, Chantelle and Tiff who have been so supportive, caring and overall brilliant when it comes to any questions I have...
What an amazing nursery!! My son has been attending since May 2024! He's grown and learnt so much along the way and that is all thanks to the incredible staff!! Not forgetting Lauren, Chantelle and Tiff who have been so supportive, caring and overall brilliant when it comes to any questions I have about my son and they're always on hand to help support! Thank you to each and every one of you! You truly are the best!
Both of my children attend The Croft Oakdale, My son has attended the nursery since he was 4 months old and is now 3 and in preschool. My daughter started at 4 months in September 2025 and both of them settled incredibly well thanks to the incredible staff. Both Lauren and Chantelle made us feel...
Both of my children attend The Croft Oakdale, My son has attended the nursery since he was 4 months old and is now 3 and in preschool. My daughter started at 4 months in September 2025 and both of them settled incredibly well thanks to the incredible staff. Both Lauren and Chantelle made us feel very comfortable and have been accommodating and friendly throughout our time at the nursery. Each member of staff have taken the time to get to know both of my children and have played a massive part in their development and social skills. The Croft really feels like a warm friendly environment making you feel totally comfortable about leaving your children in their capable hands. I also really like how the staff have been at the nursery for long periods of time and how happy they seem to be. I would highly recommend The Croft Oakdale to anyone looking for a fantastic nursery setting with the most incredible staff, we cannot fault them. Every member of staff are a credit to the team. Thank you
My son has been going to this nursery since October 2023 and we both couldn't be happier! He has made wonderful friends and has always gone into the setting very happy. I have never had any tears! His developmental progress shot through the roof since starting and it his speech and learning has...
My son has been going to this nursery since October 2023 and we both couldn't be happier! He has made wonderful friends and has always gone into the setting very happy. I have never had any tears! His developmental progress shot through the roof since starting and it his speech and learning has improved massively. All of the staff are amazing, kind and great at communicating and the managers Chantelle and Lauren are incredible. It just goes to show their amazing leadership skills with how many members of staff have been there for such a number of years. They offer so many different activities and things to do and I love hearing about all the new things he's been doing. Nothing is too much trouble and I always feel at ease that my son is safe and content while I am working. I am due my second baby soon and will definitely be sending her to this nursery next year too.
My daughter has been attending since she was 9 months old and she is now 3; I couldn't have asked for a better nursery. The staff are so friendly and put you at ease as you leave your child. They get to know your child and support them in whatever they need. First steps really does feel like a...
My daughter has been attending since she was 9 months old and she is now 3; I couldn't have asked for a better nursery. The staff are so friendly and put you at ease as you leave your child. They get to know your child and support them in whatever they need. First steps really does feel like a family. I really like the fact that the staff that work here all seem really happy and they have been at First steps a long time - I think this is a really good indicator of what a lovely environment this is. My daughter loves playing outside and I love the fact they do water and messy play (something I don't have to clean up!). Activities are always structured and most days my daughter will come home with a picture she has created! We are moving up to the final room in September and I can't wait to watch the final year and see even more development from my little one. Thank you to the whole First Steps Team for welcoming us into your family.
Thank you so much for your lovely review, it is so lovely to hear that your daughter is so settled and happy with us and the wonderful First Steps team.
Our daughter has been with First Steps from around 12 months old, she'll be leaving to start school in September. The staff at First Steps have been superb and made our little one feel safe and secure throughout! The setting is smaller than some others, but this is no way a bad thing, its a massive...
Our daughter has been with First Steps from around 12 months old, she'll be leaving to start school in September. The staff at First Steps have been superb and made our little one feel safe and secure throughout! The setting is smaller than some others, but this is no way a bad thing, its a massive plus! Our daughter knows everyone and has built some lovely friendships. I couldn't recommend First Steps highly enough!
Thank you for taking the time to leave us such a lovely review. We are so pleased that your daughter has enjoyed her time with us at First Steps, and we hope to see her again one day in our holiday club!
Sent both my children here. I trust them 100% and both my children have loved it. First steps have built the confidence in my youngest who was quite shy. I would recommend to anyone. Staff are great and communication good.
Sent both my children here. I trust them 100% and both my children have loved it. First steps have built the confidence in my youngest who was quite shy. I would recommend to anyone. Staff are great and communication good.
Thank you for taking the time to leave us such a lovely review, we are so happy that both of your children have loved coming to First Steps!
My little boy has been attending 1st Steps since November 2024. He loves his time here and runs in every morning as he's so excited to see everyone! The team have been great with helping him wear different shoes, clothes and trying new foods. Nothing is ever to much! I can honestly say these girls...
My little boy has been attending 1st Steps since November 2024. He loves his time here and runs in every morning as he's so excited to see everyone! The team have been great with helping him wear different shoes, clothes and trying new foods. Nothing is ever to much! I can honestly say these girls are amazing. I have one happy little boy, and his smile says it all every time I pick him up.
Thank you so much for your lovely review, it's fantastic to hear that your little boy runs in with excitement each day and loves his time at First Steps!
Amazing team and always there to help and support. Our daughter has been at first steps for nearly 3 years. Can honestly say the best choice we made was to send our daughter to first steps. Extremely grateful for everything they've done and how they helped her develop and now be ready to start the...
Amazing team and always there to help and support. Our daughter has been at first steps for nearly 3 years. Can honestly say the best choice we made was to send our daughter to first steps. Extremely grateful for everything they've done and how they helped her develop and now be ready to start the next chapter of her journey at school. She'll be back for holiday clubs and ready to beat the boys at tug of war.
Thank you for your great review, we are so pleased that your daughter has enjoyed her time at First Steps and look forward to seeing her again at our holiday club.
First steps is an amazing nursery. My little boy went there from 10 months old and he still goes to their holiday club at 6 years old as he loves it. They look after him and help him with his SEN issues and he wishes he could go more often. My little girl has just started at 10 months old and she...
First steps is an amazing nursery. My little boy went there from 10 months old and he still goes to their holiday club at 6 years old as he loves it. They look after him and help him with his SEN issues and he wishes he could go more often. My little girl has just started at 10 months old and she loves it just as much as her older brother. She is very clingy to me but the ladies at the nursery are the only other people she will happily go to. She always leaves with a smile and I think first steps is the best nursery for children of any age as they really care.
Thank you for your lovely review. We are so pleased that both your children enjoy their time at First Steps.
Both my children have attended first steps and love it. Very happy with the staff, cleanliness, education and fun the kids have had and continue to have. I would highly recommend to any parent. The staff are great at any time, especially drop offs early in the morning.
Both my children have attended first steps and love it. Very happy with the staff, cleanliness, education and fun the kids have had and continue to have. I would highly recommend to any parent. The staff are great at any time, especially drop offs early in the morning.
Thank you for your lovely review, we are so pleased that your children love First Steps and you have such a positive early morning drop off.
The team are very kind and helpful. The support they provide to progress my child's development is fantastic, making every step flow forwards seamlessly.
The team are very kind and helpful. The support they provide to progress my child's development is fantastic, making every step flow forwards seamlessly.
Child Vacancies
Please contact us for latest vacancies.
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Accreditations
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Meet the Team (3)

Lauren (Early Years Professional BA honours degree) has the highest level of early years qualification and is an expert in her field, this is...
Lauren (Early Years Professional BA honours degree) has the highest level of early years qualification and is an expert in her field, this is reflected in her expert team that she mentors and guides. Lauren is always willing to be hands on with the children and is truly the face of the nursery for our families. As is summed up by some words from our parents ‘Lauren….well words can’t describe the sterling job she does and always with a smile’. Lauren's two children Freddie and Elsie also attend the Nursery.

Chantelle (Early Years Professional level 5) has been with the nursery for over ten years and has completed her foundation degree, and assists Lauren...
Chantelle (Early Years Professional level 5) has been with the nursery for over ten years and has completed her foundation degree, and assists Lauren in the day-to-day running of the nursery. Chantelle has worked in all of the rooms in the nursery and is always around to offer advice and guidance to parents. She also brings her little boy Tommy to nursery with her.

Ella now leads the baby room team as well as assists Lauren in the holiday club.
Frequently Asked Questions about Croft Day Nursery - Oakdale
What is the Age Range of Children that Croft Day Nursery - Oakdale accepts?
Croft Day Nursery - Oakdale accepts Children aged from 0 years 3 months to 5 years 0 months.
What Days & Hours is Croft Day Nursery - Oakdale Open?
Croft Day Nursery - Oakdale is open: Monday 07:30-18:00, Tuesday 07:30-18:00, Wednesday 07:30-18:00, Thursday 07:30-18:00, Friday 07:30-18:00.
How many Children does Croft Day Nursery - Oakdale have capacity for?
Croft Day Nursery - Oakdale has capacity for a total of 91 Children.
How far is Croft Day Nursery - Oakdale to the centre of Poole?
2.1 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 Croft Day Nursery - Oakdale to verify any information. View our terms and conditions. Croft Day Nursery - Oakdale has an Enhanced Service -what an Enhanced Service includes.