Her Best Start Begins Here

More than a nursery. The start of her Rowan journey.

SPACER

Recognised Excellence In Early Years.

At Rowan, we believe the earliest years matter most. That's why we've created an exceptional Early Years experience that gives girls the strongest possible start.

Our Early Years provision was awarded a rare ISI Significant Strength for both provision and outcomes, recognising the quality of education on offer and the impact it has on children.

Why families choose Rowan:

  • ISI Significant Strength awarded for Early Years provision and outcomes.
  • Provision praised by inspectors as "relevant, engaging and developmentally appropriate".
  • Children described as "exceptionally well prepared" for the next stage of their education.
  • Experienced and highly effective Early Years leadership team.
  • A carefully planned curriculum with strong continuity and progression.
  • A seamless pathway from Preschool through to Reception and beyond.

The result? Happy, confident and capable girls who are ready for school, and ready for life.

Where Every Child Is Truly Known.

At Rowan, every girl is known as an individual. From the moment she joins us, we take time to understand her personality, interests, strengths and needs, ensuring she receives the support, encouragement and challenge that's right for her.

Why families value our approach:

  • High adult-to-child ratios that allow for meaningful individual attention.
  • Individual learning profiles for every child.
  • Staff who carefully observe, understand and adapt learning to each girl's needs.
  • Strong relationships between teachers, children and families.
  • A nurturing environment where confidence, independence and wellbeing are prioritised.
  • Support that helps every child feel safe, valued and ready to learn.

Because when children feel known and understood, they develop the confidence to thrive both in and beyond the classroom.

Specialist Teaching From The Very Beginning.

At Rowan, specialist teaching isn't something children wait years to experience - our expert-led lessons start from Preschool onwards.

Our broad and ambitious Early Years programme includes:

  • Specialist teaching in Music, Drama, French, Dance, Gymnastics and Sport.
  • Daily phonics, literacy, maths and emotional literacy activities.
  • Individual strengths, interests and talents identified from the very beginning.
  • Weekly Forest School sessions encourage exploration, creativity and resilience.
  • Swimming lessons from Reception.
  • Purpose-built Early Years classrooms, with their own outdoor learning spaces.

Exposing our youngest pupils to a wide range of experiences develops confidence, curiosity and a genuine love of learning that stays with them throughout their Rowan journey.

Muddy boots. Curious minds. Confident learners.

At Rowan, outdoor learning is a part of everyday life, helping girls develop confidence, creativity, resilience and a lifelong love of learning.

Our girls benefit from:

  • Weekly Forest School sessions at Hinchley Wood Sports Ground.
  • A brand new bespoke Early Years garden designed for exploration and imaginative play.
  • Climbing equipment, mud kitchen, sand and water play, dig pit, role-play areas and story circle.

Whether they're building, exploring, creating or imagining, girls are encouraged to learn by doing, because some of the most powerful learning happens when children are free to be curious.

Ready For Reception Before Reception Starts.

Starting school is a big milestone, but at Rowan it never feels like a leap into the unknown.

Our Preschool and Reception teams work closely together to ensure every child experiences a smooth, familiar and exciting transition, helping them feel confident and ready long before their first day in September.

Families benefit from:

  • Close collaboration between Preschool and Reception staff.
  • Shared spaces, routines and experiences that build familiarity.
  • Classroom visits and transition activities before moving up.
  • Settling-in events and support for families.
  • Children arriving in Reception already feeling secure, confident and excited.
  • A seamless educational journey from age 2 through to Year 6.

Because when children feel comfortable and confident in their surroundings, they are free to focus on what matters most: Learning, growing and enjoying school.

Designed Around Busy Family Life.

Choosing an Early Years setting isn't just about finding the right environment for your child. It's about finding a school that works for your family too.

At Rowan, we offer flexible care, practical support and a strong sense of community, helping family life run more smoothly from the very beginning.

We offer:

  • Full wraparound care from Preschool to Year 6.
  • Breakfast Club from 7.45am.
  • A wide range of after-school clubs from 4pm to 6pm, including sport, drama, coding, chess, sewing and orchestra.
  • Holiday camp provision during school holidays.
  • Funded Early Education for eligible families.
  • Acceptance of childcare vouchers and tax-free childcare.
  • Free weekly Little Berries Toddler Group.
  • A warm and welcoming community for both children and parents.

Because when families feel supported, children thrive.


Early years leaders are highly effective. They have a collective vision, and a strong commitment to nurturing children's individuality.

ISI Inspection Report, June 2025