Why being 1 of 12 SEND Inclusion Hubs in Richmond is great news for your family

• A shining example: Kerswell Nursery is widely recognised across the borough for excellent inclusive practice.

• The extra mile: Our team is specially trained to support and cheer on every child, no matter their starting point.

• Growing together: An inclusive world helps every child learn kindness, empathy, and friendship.

• A helping hand: We’re here to help you navigate everything from funding to the move to "big school".

• Ready for anything: Our gentle, expert-led approach makes sure every child feels confident and prepared.

Choosing the right nursery is a huge milestone for any family. While many parents start their journey by looking for high-quality childcare in Whitton, what they are really looking for is a place where their child will be understood, happy, and truly belong. At Kerswell Nursery & Forest School, we provide that peace of mind through our role as a designated SEND Inclusion Hub.

But what does being a "Hub" actually mean for you? In the London Borough of Richmond upon Thames, only 12 settings have been chosen for this special role. It means we have been recognised for the way we welcome every child with open arms. While the name mentions Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND), this gold standard of care actually makes the day-to-day experience better for every single child in our care.

How being an Inclusion Hub raises the bar for your child

Being chosen as one of the 12 hubs in the borough is our promise to never stop learning. To keep this status, our team trains to a much deeper level than you might find elsewhere. Our practitioners don't just follow a curriculum; they truly get to know the little details that make your child who they are.

Our expertise is so well-regarded that we even help guide and share ideas with other nurseries across Richmond. When you choose a setting that helps teach other professionals, you are placing your child in the hands of real specialists. We offer childcare in Whitton with inclusive support for additional needs that feels personal and warm, providing the individual attention every child deserves to feel like a star.

Why a Diverse Environment is a Gift for Your Child’s Social Skills

The real beauty of an inclusive nursery is the lessons in kindness it provides. When children grow up in a place where everyone is different and everyone is welcome, they learn things that can't be found in a book. By choosing childcare in Whitton that celebrates diversity, you are helping your child learn empathy and patience as their "natural secondary languages".

In our garden and classrooms, children see firsthand that everyone learns in their own way and at their own pace. This creates a lovely, supportive little community where children look out for one another. Because we keep our focus on high-support environments, no child ever "gets lost in the middle”. We celebrate every single milestone with the same big smiles and enthusiasm.

Expert Guidance for Your Whole Family

We know that the early years can sometimes feel like a bit of a maze, whether you are trying to understand funding or wondering about your child's next steps. As an Inclusion Hub, we see our role as a beacon of support for your whole family, not just your child.

Our friendly leadership team and specialist SENDCo work closely with parents to offer advice and a listening ear. We act as a bridge between home life and the wider school system, making sure your child’s journey is smooth, supported, and full of joy.

Ready to see life at Kerswell for yourself?

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FAQs

Can I use my 30 hours of funding for a term-time only nursery in Whitton?

Yes, you certainly can! We specialise in term-time places which many of our families find fits perfectly with the local school calendar. We offer a flexible 7:30 am to 4:00 pm structure to help you make the most of your 30-hour funding while your child enjoys the benefits of our expert-led inclusive care.

How does your inclusive expertise change how staff play with my child?

Because we are a hub, our team is trained to be "expert observers." This means whether your child is flying ahead in an area or needs a little extra encouragement, our educators know exactly how to jump in and help at just the right moment. It makes every child’s experience feel very personal and special.

What are the "Rainbow Rules" and how do they help?

The Rainbow Rules are our gentle way of helping children understand how to be kind and respectful to one another. In our inclusive setting, these rules provide a simple, fair, and consistent guide that helps everyone feel safe, happy, and ready to play together.