St Swithun’s Prep School in Winchester has unveiled plans to open a dedicated nursery and preschool on its campus, offering full-time care for children as young as nine months. The new facility, set to begin operations between September 2026 and January 2027 pending final approvals, will operate year-round for 50 weeks, with the flexibility for families to choose term-time-only attendance.
The on-site nursery marks a significant expansion of St Swithun’s educational offering, which has historically catered to girls from Reception onward. While the school remains girls-only from primary age, the new nursery will accept children of both genders aged nine months to four years. Initial intake will prioritize older toddlers: places for children aged two to three may open as early as September 7, 2026, while the youngest cohort—nine months to two years—will be admitted after the autumn half-term break.
Key Points
- ✅ First intake begins September 2026 for ages 2-3
- ⚡ On-site nursery accepts infants as young as nine months
- 💡 Operates 50 weeks per year with term-time flexibility
Central to the nursery’s design is an emphasis on emotional security and early learning through play. The school has outlined a curriculum grounded in three core values—Caritas, Humilitas, and Sinceritas—fostering curiosity, independence, and social skills in a nurturing environment. Calming spaces, sensory play areas, and predictable routines are planned to support the youngest children, while outdoor education will play a pivotal role in sparking curiosity and active discovery.
| Age Group | Start Date | Program Features |
|---|---|---|
| 2-3 years | September 7, 2026 | Term-time focused, social and play-based learning |
| 9 months-2 years | After autumn half-term 2026 | Year-round, sensory and attachment-based routines |
An outdoor learning facility is also in development, designed to integrate nature and hands-on exploration into daily activities. The school’s spokesperson emphasized the importance of outdoor play in early childhood, stating that learning is “most natural when it happens through doing.” Recruitment for a nursery manager is already underway, signaling the project’s rapid progression.
📋 Program Highlights
- 9 months — Minimum age for nursery admission
- 50 weeks — Continuous operation with optional term-time attendance
- Caritas, Humilitas, Sinceritas — Core values guiding early years curriculum
St Swithun’s decision to extend its provision to infants reflects a broader trend among independent schools seeking to align early education with modern parenting demands. The move also underscores the school’s commitment to inclusivity and emotional wellbeing, positioning the nursery as a cornerstone of its long-term educational strategy. Families interested in securing a place are advised to monitor updates as the school finalizes details ahead of the 2026 launch.
💡 Pro Tip
Contact the admissions office by December 2025 to express interest and receive priority updates on availability for the September 2026 intake.
