First Steps Day Nursery

75 Oakdale Road, Oakdale, Poole BH15 3LD
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9.5 59 Reviews
  • First Steps Day Nursery, Poole
First Steps Nursery in Poole provides high quality care and education for children aged 3 months and over in 3 different groups; Teddy-bears for the youngest children, Sunshines for toddlers and Little Steps and Big Steps pre-schools as well as the popular holiday club. First Steps Nursery is bright and welcoming with large murals painted on the walls and well equipped for the ultimate in fun and learning.

First Steps have a longstanding fantastic team of qualified nursery practitioners who strive to create a bright, safe, secure and stimulating environment for the children in their care enabling them to reach their full potential and ensure their readiness for their next steps to "big" school. Most of the senior team have worked for First Steps in excess of 10 years and are pivotal in the ongoing success and reputation of First Steps.
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Type of Service

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

Owner

  • First Steps Childcare Services Ltd
  • Privately Owned

Person in Charge

  • Lauren Cook (Manager)

Number of Childcare Staff

  • 26

Total Places for Children

  • 91

Age Range

  • from 0 years 2 months
  • to 5 years 0 months

Funding & Fees

  • Per day from £80

  • 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.

Opening Times

  • 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

When Closed

  • Bank Holidays, 1 week at Christmas, 1 training day P/A

Parking

  • Parking at the rear of the building on Brampton Road.

First Steps Day Nursery Reviews (59)

9.5

First Steps Day Nursery has a Review Score of 9.5 (9.532) out of 10, based on 10 reviews in the last 2 years.
Over all time First Steps Day Nursery has 59 reviews.

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Review from April J (Mother of Child) published on 20 January 2021 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
My daughter has been going to First Steps since she was 12 months old and has moved from the baby room to the toddler room and now little steps and each room has been just perfect for her. She absolutely loves going to nursery and talks about the staff all the time, she even asks to go to their homes.
My daughter can be quite shy and the girls at First Steps are always so reassuring and encouraging. I always recommend First Steps to parents looking for childcare. They have handled the pandemic amazingly and have kept us up to date with how they are managing the guidelines. I have total trust in them with my daughter and would highly recommend them time and time again.
Reply from Caroline Marks, Managing Director at First Steps Day Nursery
Thank you April for taking the time to leave us such a positive review, we really do appreciate the feedback particularly during the pandemic.
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Review from Shannen N (Mother of Child) published on 22 June 2020 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 4.0 out of 5
My daughter attends the nursery and has done ever since she was three. She moved up from the toddler room to little steps to now big steps. She has loved every minute of being there and was over the moon when I said she would be going back to nursery after this virus has passed. All the staff are wonderful!
But especially the managers are helpful and reply back to emails as soon as they can. Overall, a great nursery, and I am happy to leave my daughter there and feel like I don’t have to worry.
Reply from Caroline Marks, Managing Director at First Steps Day Nursery
Thank you for taking the time to leave us a review, we're so pleased that you think our team is wonderful, we couldn't agree more!
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Review from Phil T (Father of Child) published on 22 June 2020 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
After moving our son from another smaller nursery due to its closure, and we were obviously worried. However, when we first visited the premises it was very welcoming, and all the staff are amazing. From the activities, holiday club, breakfast club and after school club they’re faultless. The kids form
great relationships and skills ready for their next step.
Reply from Caroline Marks, Managing Director at First Steps Day Nursery
We are so happy to hear that you are enjoying your new Nursery after moving from another - thank you for your lovely review.
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Review from Adam (Father of Child) published on 19 June 2020 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
I couldn’t recommend First Steps Nursery more highly. Everything from the day to day running of the nursery, the staff, the reviews and updates on my children’s development progress, the services they provide, school pickups and drop off service and how accommodating they are with extenuating circumstances
is just great. My children love going here and we love sending them to a nursery that is so well run and is so beneficial to their early year's development.
I highly recommend First Steps and their incredible team.
Reply from Caroline Marks, Managing Director at First Steps Day Nursery
Thank you very much for your lovely review, it's good to know that you and your children are happy with everything we do.
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Review from Hannah K (Mother of Child) published on 18 June 2020 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
My daughter has been attending for the last year and she has loved every minute of it. The staff have been incredible when talking to them as a client and a mother.
Especially in light of Covid, they have really shown their professionalism, dedication and care for everyone that is involved with the
First Steps family.
I would highly recommend them to anyone looking for a team of compassionate superheroes!
Reply from Caroline Marks, Manging Director at First Steps Day Nursery
Thank you so much for your review of First Steps and we are pleased to know that you and your daughter are happy with everything. It's really great to hear that you have appreciated our COVID response…read more
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Review from Shinade S (Mother of Child) published on 18 June 2020 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
Fantastic nursery. The staff are skilled, caring and compassionate. My daughters have thrived there. They both look forward to nursery. The staff are approachable, and there is not a high turn over of staff which is a good sign. I would recommend First Steps to anyone.
Reply from Caroline Marks, Managing Director at First Steps Day Nursery
Thank you for the lovely review, it' always nice to know the children look forward to coming to First Steps!
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Review from Dominika S (Mother of Child) published on 18 June 2020 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
Both my daughters were very happy with the First Step Nursery. Currently just one still going and for sure my son will be next. Great, friendly staff and always helpful. Lot’s of fun, activities and crafts. Highly recommended!
Reply from Caroline Marks, Managing Director at First Steps Day Nursery
Thank you for your great review, it's lovely to hear that you and your children are happy with the fun activities that we provide at First Steps. We look forward to welcoming your son soon!
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Review from Lizzie J (Mother of Child) published on 18 June 2020 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
Both of my children have gone to first steps from 11-months-old. My son is five and still goes to the school club, and my daughter is one and currently in the baby room. My children both love First Steps and all the team; the staff from the management to the nurses are so amazing, and I trust them wholeheartedly
to look after my babies. Would highly recommend. Thank you!
Reply from Caroline Marks, Managing Director at First Steps Day Nursery
Thank you, Lizzie, for your lovely feedback - it's lovely to hear that you trust us so much with your children and that they are both so happy coming to First Steps.
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Review from Jo S (Mother of Child) published on 18 June 2020 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
First Step Nursery has been the best choice for our two (not so little now) children. They both attended since the age of 12-months and both love it!
Right from the beginning, the team show that they care. They ensure the little one has settling in sessions. Every ‘term’ they ask for an up-to-date
‘all about me’ so that they understand where your child may need help in or tell them your child strengths/likes/dislikes are.
The management team listen to any concerns you have, and you can trust that your child is being looked after as if they were your own.
Both my children have learnt so much - to be independent, sociable and confident, which helped them to be ‘school ready’.
My oldest attends holiday club, and they do trips out - taking advantage of the local facilities.
Honestly can’t praise the staff or management team enough, especially during the COVID-19 situation, where I had to rely on them for help in the end, and they were so understanding.
I would highly recommend!
Reply from Caroline Marks, Managing Director at First Steps Day Nursery
Thank you so much for your lovely review - it's really good to hear that both your children have enjoyed their time at First Steps and your feedback is really appreciated.
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Review from Laura H (Mother of Child) published on 15 June 2020 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
My daughter has been going to First Steps since she was nine months old, she absolutely loves it. She's always disappointed to see me or her dad when it's time to go home. The staff are great, they give us updates on what she's done throughout the day, face to face as well as on the app. My little girls
speech and motor skills have come on so much since she started.
Reply from Mike Marks, Operations Director at First Steps Day Nursery
Thanks, it's nice to know that your daughter enjoys her time with us at nursery.
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Review from Jess A (Mother of Child) published on 2 June 2020 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
First Steps have been so helpful during this lockdown due to covid-19. My child does not usually attend this nursery but she absolutely loves it here. The manager has gone above and beyond helping me out, as I am a key worker and the staff have helped my daughter settle in, especially one in particular.
My daughter (four) has even asked to stay longer. When I have another baby this nursery would be top of the list to take my child to. Thank you to all the staff here.
Reply from Mike Marks, Operations Director at First Steps Day Nursery
Thanks Jess - it has been a pleasure to be of service to you. We look forward to seeing you and your daughter again one day. Kind regards.
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Review from Sarah R (Mother of Child) published on 17 April 2018 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
Just wanted to say a big thank you to the First Steps team for the amazing holiday club you put on this Easter.
My child has been coming to First Steps for 7 years now and I can honestly say it's the best nursery, preschool and holiday club we have found.
They have a fantastic manager, always polite,
respectful and happy to help with queries big or small. The team provide excellent opportunities for the children from Baby room all the way through to holiday club.
We have the option of our child going to a holiday club much closer to home but make the decision to travel that bit further due to the excellence of First Steps.
Thank you all for the amazing service and see you all at half term.
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Review from Nicola D (Mother of Child) published on 16 March 2018 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
Both my children went to First Steps from the age of 9 months and 6 months, the care and attention the staff give all the children are outstanding and you really feel as though they know and understand your child as an individual. They make your children feel at home and both my children loved and
looked forward to going. The activities and effort the staff put into all occasions is brilliant. My eldest also now goes to the holiday club which again keeps her busy and entertained in a fun way. Well done First Steps team.
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Review from Sophia W (Mother of Child) published on 13 March 2018 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
Could not be happier with this nursery. My daughter moved from her old nursery which closed and was so worried about this change for her at 2, a year on and she loves it. All the staff are just amazing with her and all the children and parents. We are kept in the loop about daily events and tasks, even
foods and snacks they have had throughout the day! She attends 4 mornings a week and it is a great setting ready for starting school in September as they do a register and guide from a regular school day. Just love it!
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Review from Naomi F (Mother of Child) published on 13 March 2018 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
First Steps has become part of our family. The best decision we made in 2012 was to send our son here. As a first time mum, going back to work I was understandably nervous and wanted to make the right choice. I couldn't have made a better one. All of the staff are incredible and I know my kids are well
looked after. My daughter now attends the pre school and my son uses the breakfast, after-school and holiday clubs. I honestly don't think there is a better nursery out there!
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Review from Kristin M (Mother of Child) published on 13 March 2018 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
I love First Steps my younger son settled in the 2 yr old room no problem and loves going. My older son goes to holiday club and can’t wait to get there all the staff are so friendly.
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Review from Liz B (Mother of Child) published on 13 March 2018 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
The nursery is warm and welcoming, with excellent security and safeguarding.


My son has attended for over two years and has progressed from the baby room, through to the toddler room and now to the Big Steps room. He had great socialisation opportunities and is developing well in a structured learning

environment. There is a great playground area and as it’s a large setting, the rooms are large and airy with lots of space.


Staff feedback at the end of each day is excellent, so I always know what the children have been doing that day. Food is excellent, cooked fresh on site each day, including special dietary needs.


Located in Oakdale, it’s ideal for me to drop off on my way to work and collect on my way home. Open 7:30-18:00.


Although the fees are not as cheap as elsewhere but I believe that you get what you pay for. The quality of the care and the level of staff training speak for themselves.


Highly recommended. 5 stars.

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Review from Clare V (Mother of Child) published on 12 March 2018 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
First Steps has given my children such a good start, my eldest (4 years) has been there for 3 years and has always been so happy there. He has built good relationships with staff, transitioned seamlessly through the rooms as he got older and loves the activities and his friends. My youngest (13 months)
started in the baby room 2 months ago and has had no problems settling in thanks to the great care he receives. He goes in without a second thought and loves the play and opportunities he has to enjoy every day! The staff know them both very well and the activities they do are very different to what I can do with them at home! They love it! We also love the learning book and Facebook page where we get little insights into their day. Thanks First Steps team!
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Review from Emilie H (Mother of Child) published on 7 March 2018 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
This is simply a magnificent nursery. I have been using it for a little over 8 years with my children. The staff are so friendly and caring. The environment is bright and educational and the food also all cooked on site and delicious. I can’t recommend them highly enough! It is possibly a little more
expensive than some other day care providers but you do get a lot for your pennies.
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Review from Michelle (Mother of Child) published on 4 August 2016 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
Great nursery. The staff are helpful and friendly and always help with any inquiries. They are easily approachable. The facilities are great especially the outdoor equipment for the children. Would definitely recommend to family or friend.
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Current Review Score: 9.5 (9.532)

Overview of Review Score

The Review Score of 9.5 (9.532) out of 10 for First Steps Day Nursery is based on a) the Average Rating and b) the number of positive Reviews.

  1. The Average Rating is 5.0 out of 5 from 10 Reviews in the last 24 months.
  2. The score for the number of positive Reviews is 4.5 out of 5 from 10 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 4.983 for First Steps Day Nursery is calculated as follows: ( (116 Excellents x 5) + (2 Goods x 4) ) ÷ 118 Ratings = 4.983
  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 4.549 Points relating to the number of positive Reviews for First Steps Day Nursery is based on 10 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 + 0.1 + 0.1 + 0.1 + 0.1 + 0.1 = 4
    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 91 number of registered child places is 18.2. 10 Positive Reviews ÷ 18.2 = 0.549
  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 (0)

Meet the Team (4)

Caroline

Caroline Jepson

Job Title: Managing Director Joined: 1997

Caroline has been a Nursery owner for 28 years and is passionate about providing the best nurturing environment for every child at First Steps.

Lauren

Lauren Cook

Job Title: Nursery Manager Joined: 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

Chantelle Cornell

Job Title: Deputy Nursery Manager Joined: 2010

Chantelle (Early Years Professional level 5) has been with the nursery 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

Ella White

Job Title: Team Leader Joined: 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.

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