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Croft Day Nursery - Oakdale

75 Oakdale Road, Oakdale, Poole, Dorset BH15 3LD
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Croft Day Nursery - Oakdale, Poole
Croft Day Nursery - Oakdale, Poole
Croft Day Nursery - Oakdale, Poole

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...  

Type of Service

  • Day Nursery

Opening Schedule

Open all year

Full days available

Yes

Half day sessions offered

Yes

Group / Owner

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

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

Fees are calculated over the full year and divided into 12 equal monthly payments based on the number of days/sessions your child attends. Fees are inclusive of all meals, drinks, snacks and nappies/wipes where applicable.

Contact Croft Day Nursery - Oakdale to get a personalised quote:

Croft Day Nursery - Oakdale Reviews (66)

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9.9

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.

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Showing 66 reviews matching selected criteria
Review from Kitty P (Mother of Child) published on 24 July 2026 Submitted via Website
Overall Experience
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 do.
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.

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Review from Emma C (Mother of Child) published on 24 July 2026 Submitted via Website
Overall Experience
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.

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Review from Chloe J (Mother of Child) published on 20 July 2026 Submitted via Website
Overall Experience

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!

Reply from Lauren Cook, Nursery Manager at Croft Day Nursery - Oakdale
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...  

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Review from Chloe S (Mother of Child) published on 20 July 2026 Submitted via Website
Overall Experience
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 future

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.

Reply from Lauren Cook, Nursery Manager at Croft Day Nursery - Oakdale
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...  

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Review from Vicky M (Mother of Child) published on 20 July 2026 Submitted via Website
Overall Experience

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 .

Reply from Lauren Cook, Nursery Manager at Croft Day Nursery - Oakdale
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...  

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Review from Jenny P (Mother of Child) published on 15 July 2026 Submitted via Website
Overall Experience
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 updates that keep us informed and involved.
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.

Reply from Lauren Cook, Nursery Manager at Croft Day Nursery - Oakdale
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...  

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Review from Amy S (Mother of Child) published on 15 July 2026 Submitted via Website
Overall Experience
My daughter absolutely loves the nursery. The staff are great with her.
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

Reply from Lauren Cook, Nursery Manager at Croft Day Nursery - Oakdale
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...  

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Review from Anna D (Mother of Child) published on 15 July 2026 Submitted via Website
Overall Experience
My daughter has been coming here since she was one so has been through baby room, toddler room, and now she's in pre-school. She absolutely loves it! The staff are so good with her, and I feel she is safe and well cared for.

It's only a small nursery but this is what makes it special. A lovely, lovely place!

Reply from Lauren Cook, Nursery Manager at Croft Day Nursery - Oakdale
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...  

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Review from Lucy R (Mother of Child) published on 15 July 2026 Submitted via Website
Overall Experience
The Croft nursery is a warm, fun, stimulating and nurturing environment.
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.

Reply from Lauren Cook, Nursery Manager at Croft Day Nursery - Oakdale
Thank you so much for taking the time to leave such a thoughtful review

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...  

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Review from Lauren J (Mother of Child) published on 15 May 2026 Submitted via Website
Overall Experience

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!

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Review from Chloe C (Mother of Child) published on 15 May 2026 Submitted via Website
Overall Experience

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

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Review from E E (Mother of Child) published on 15 May 2026 Submitted via Website
Overall Experience

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.

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Review from Nikki P (Mother of Child) published on 7 July 2025 Submitted via Website
Overall Experience

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.

Reply from Caroline Jepson, Managing Director at Croft Day Nursery - Oakdale

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.

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Review from Sean G (Father of Child) published on 27 June 2025 Submitted via Website
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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!

Reply from Caroline Jepson, Managing Director at Croft Day Nursery - Oakdale

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!

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Review from Kim F (Mother of Child) published on 13 June 2025 Submitted via Website
Overall Experience

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.

Reply from Caroline Jepson, Managing Director at Croft Day Nursery - Oakdale

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!

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Review from J W (Mother of Child) published on 13 June 2025 Submitted via Website
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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.

Reply from Caroline Jepson, Managing Director at Croft Day Nursery - Oakdale

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!

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Review from Daniel H (Father of Child) published on 13 June 2025 Submitted via Website
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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.

Reply from Caroline Jepson, Managing Director at Croft Day Nursery - Oakdale

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.

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Review from Ashleigh C (Mother of Child) published on 10 June 2025 Submitted via Website
Overall Experience

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.

Reply from CAROLINE JEPSON, Managing Director at Croft Day Nursery - Oakdale

Thank you for your lovely review. We are so pleased that both your children enjoy their time at First Steps.

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Review from Rick G (Father of Child) published on 14 April 2022 Submitted via Website
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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.

Reply from CAROLINE MARKS, Managing Director at Croft Day Nursery - Oakdale

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.

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Review from S P (Mother of Child) published on 29 March 2021 Submitted via Postal Card
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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.

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Meet the Team (3)

Lauren Cook
Lauren CookJob Title:Nursery ManagerJoined: 2009

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 Whiteford
Chantelle WhitefordJob Title:Deputy Nursery ManagerJoined: 2010

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 White
Ella WhiteJob Title:Team LeaderJoined: 2011
Ella is our third in command at First Steps and has been with the company since 2011 after initially starting as an apprentice.

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.

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