We offer exceptional childcare for our families in a stimulating and nurturing environment empowering our children and teaching them skills for life.
Our goals are to have happy, healthy and thriving children, involved and reassured parents alongside a knowledgeable and motivated team.
Our focus on quality has been rewarded by Ofsted, with a consistently Good rating.
Our focus on outdoor learning, through our Woodland Explorers programme, encourages children to develop confidence and independence. We also provide rich, diverse curricula that promote learning through play, centred around each child’s unique interests.
We offer programmes for children aged 0-4, all designed to support your child’s growth and development.
Hello and welcome!
With over 21 years of leadership and management experience in early years education, I am passionate about delivering exceptional childcare. My mission at The Ark Woodlands is to ensure every child can reach their full potential in a safe, supportive, and inspiring environment.
I believe learning should be rooted in exploration, curiosity, and active discovery. Through a child-centred approach, we encourage children to follow their interests, nurturing creativity and a lifelong love of learning. My commitment is to provide a nurturing space where every child can flourish and develop in their own unique way.
As a mother and grandparent, children have always been at the heart of my life. This personal connection guides my work, ensuring every child is valued, respected, and given the best possible start.
I look forward to welcoming you and your family to The Ark Woodlands and working together on this exciting journey.
– Tanya Thornley
Thank you to all the parents who feel The Ark has left a positive impact on their children.
We’ve had a wonderful experience with the nursery over the past three years. Our daughter has learned so much and grown beautifully, especially in her communication and skills. All the staff have been amazing, and she has always loved coming to nursery every day. As she moves on to reception, we will really miss you all. Thank you for everything — you’ve made a big difference in her early years
I am very happy with the progress my daughter has made both with her development and social skills. She has come out of her shell and is a funny, chatty, confident and clever little girl thanks to all the staff and the hard work they pour into the children.
They provide children with a safe space to express themselves, provide healthy, nutritious meals, varied environments to support with learning & sensory needs.
Pre-school does very well in supporting my daughter with kindness, care, and professionalism, especially as English is not her first language. We truly appreciate all their dedication.
