Together we learn

Our Nursery

For many children, attending Nursery is the first time they spend significant time away from home. For that reason it is vital that the setting they attend makes them feel happy, secure and valued. Furthermore it is such an important time for your child to develop learning characteristics that will set them up for their educational journey ahead. It is where it all begins and a time of limitless exploration and growth. These early years are fundamental to embed learning habits and develop confidence.

We are an independent Nursery, Pre-Prep and Prep School in Liphook, situated in 175 acres of stunning grounds in the South Downs National Park on the borders of Hampshire, Surrey and West Sussex. Our vision is to teach children to collaborate, to be resourceful and to take charge of their own learning and to provide a welcoming environment in which to do so. We plan a curriculum that cultivates good habits and attitudes that will enable your child to become an eager and courageous learner. As your child progresses through the Nursery years, they will develop into a tenacious, imaginative and logical child who is self-aware, collaborative and inquisitive. The foundations of all of these traits are put in place from the moment your child walks through the Nursery door for the very first time. Above all, we aim to make your child’s time in Nursery a joyous experience. During their time with us their imagination will grow, their thoughts will become more complex and their understanding of the world around will unfold. The aim of our Nursery is to instil a love of learning that will set them up for the rest of their life.

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Core Education

Our Nursery timetable is predominantly led by the children’s interests and is made up of mainly child-led learning time as well as forest school. Our expert Nursery Practitioners curate a wide range of activities for your child to engage with to help them develop prime development areas:

Communication and language
Physical development
Personal, social and emotional development
Literacy
Mathematics
Understanding the world
Expressive arts and design

At Highfield and Brookham, we pride ourselves on our impressive breadth of curriculum, supplying your child with plenty of new skills to discover. Alongside your child’s core education, they will be taught by our specialist subject teachers in swimming, PE, gymnastics, music and Spanish.

Child-initiated

Here at Highfield and Brookham, we have a real passion for and belief in child-initiated learning based on extensive research on how young children learn best. Your child will make decisions about what they want to do, where they want to do it, and what resources they will need. Crucially, the teachers participate as play partners identifying learning opportunities and skilfully responding to the children rather than leading the activities. This is all made possible because of our high staff-to-child ratios. It’s only when your child starts to apply independently what they have learnt that we know they have truly understood and engaged with what they have been taught.

We love the nursery and could not be happier that we chose it for our children.

Outdoor Learning

There is a plethora of evidence in support of outdoor learning and at Highfield and Brookham we see the proof of this every single day. Each of our Nursery rooms has direct access to our wonderful Nursery garden, which is fully equipped with a giant sandpit, mud kitchen and vegetable patch. Your child’s imagination will know no bounds as they explore and discover wonderful new things inside and out. Come rain or shine your child will be able to decide to go outdoors whenever they like, and we know that the lure of splashing in puddles or making mud pies means that children want to go outside whatever the weather. This is why waterproofs and wellington boots are staples in the Nursery wardrobe. One of the most popular activities in the garden is growing vegetables. Your child will plant, water and care for a variety of vegetables in the Nursery garden and, best of all, they will also get to harvest the produce and cook it in their very own kitchen.

With 175 acres of beautiful grounds, outdoor learning at Highfield and Brookham really has no limits. Your child will relish their time in their dedicated space at forest school, which is just a stone’s throw from their classroom door. Here they are free to explore and roam in our wondrous woodland as they hunt for the most magical minibeasts, build the most extravagant dens and craft the most elaborate leaf crowns. We want to engender a love of wildlife and respect for the natural environment in your child.

Free Flow

Your child will enjoy the freedom of free flow across all three of our Nursery rooms for a large proportion of the day. This is where all the children come together and are given the independence to explore their environment. During this time the younger children learn from their older peers, enhancing their language development and communication. Simultaneously, the older children learn valuable skills such as empathy as they take on the position of role models for their younger classmates. This combination of dedicated and shared space is a key factor in your child’s personal, emotional and educational growth.

Open-ended Resources

Our Nursery is purposefully equipped with an exciting variety of open-ended resources for your child to discover. The classrooms are carefully kitted out with blocks, loose parts and modelling resources. A toy fire engine is always a fire engine, but a pile of bricks could be an aeroplane carrying an important guest, a rocket on the hunt for life on mars or even an underground tunnel leading to an undiscovered land. The only limitation is your child’s imagination.

Food

We take food very seriously at Highfield and Brookham and your child will quickly find out why. We hire a fantastic Catering Team who keep your child’s energy at the optimum level so they can fully engage with everything that Nursery has to offer. At 10am your child will enjoy a morning snack on the carpet with their friends. This usually consists of fruit or a slice of our delicious homemade, reduced-sugar banana loaf.

Lunchbreak for our Nursery children is at 11.45am. The Tiny Bears, our very youngest children, enjoy lunch in their room, The Den, before settling down for a much-needed lunchtime nap. Our Little Bears and Big Bears don their gingham smocks and head across the courtyard to the main dining hall. Your child’s lunch is freshly prepared on site by our in-house chefs. Children are served at the table and always have the option to ask for more if they want it.

Mid-afternoon, children gather back on the carpet with the other Nursery children to enjoy a well-earned rest and snack. Cheese and crackers, sandwiches or breadsticks and humous are usually on offer to see them through to tea time.

Rooms

There are three specialist rooms in our Nursery – The Den, Woodlands and Meadows. The Den is home to our youngest cohort, Tiny Bears. This dedicated area, designed especially for our youngest children, allows your child to undertake age-appropriate activities which help them to develop independence, imagination and communication at a pace that is just right for them. Importantly, there is a dedicated space for your child to have their valuable daytime nap if they need it to ensure they are rejuvenated and ready for their afternoon adventures.

At the age of three, and when they are developmentally ready, your child will move up to either Meadows or Woodlands. Both rooms have a managed mix of our Little Bears and Big Bears so they can grow and learn together.

Logistics

Our Nursery is open for 35 weeks of the year. We welcome children from the age of two when they attend for a minimum of two mornings per week. As your child progresses into their final Nursery year, they will attend a minimum of three mornings per week, with lunch. This extended week helps with their readiness for the transition to Reception.

The morning sessions in Nursery run from 8.20am to 11.20am. You can choose for your child to stay for lunch, which the children take in our main dining hall at 11.45am. Collection is after lunch is at 12.20pm or 3.20pm if your child is staying for the full day.

Your child may attend on any days of the week where we have availability, and in any combination of morning, morning with lunch and full day sessions, up to full time, five days a week.

The Nursery Week

7.30am Breakfast club (Optional £)
8am Before-school care
8.20am Doors open
11.45am Lunch break

3.20pm School day ends
3.30pm After-school care (Optional £)
4.30pm Picnic tea and play (Optional £)
6.30pm Last pick up

Drop off

The doors to our Nursery are open for children at 8.20am. We know and completely understand that mornings can be busy for many families, with parents juggling school drop off, work and other commitments. It’s important that your child’s start to the day is calm and stress free to set them up for a successful say of learning. That’s why we offer an earlier 8am drop off option for those families who need it, at no extra charge.

Many of our families make use of our breakfast club, which opens for our Nursery children at 7.30am. Breakfast Club takes place in the main dining hall and your child will be spoilt for choice for what to have for breakfast. There is always a hot option such as beans on toast as well cereal, porridge, yoghurt, toast and fresh fruit. A truly hearty breakfast to kickstart them for their busy day in Nursery.

After School

The Nursery day draws to a close at 3.20pm. We have excellent after-school care provision that covers you if you need a later pick up.

As part of the after-school care programme, your child will have a fantastic choice of games and activities at their disposal. After-school care runs until 4.30pm.

For those families who need a later collection time we offer our ‘picnic tea and play’ session. A high tea will be served at 5pm with a selection of sandwiches, crudités, fromage frais and fruit on offer. Your child will be looked after until 6.30pm if required.

Request a prospectus

Book a visit

Pre-Prep

Prep School

Admissions

What we’re up to

1 days ago

A magical education that lasts a lifetime. Join us for our Open Morning on Friday 28th November and discover what makes Highfield and Brookham a special place for children to grow, learn and thrive. With 175 acres of opportunity, our school offers a nurturing environment, inspiring teaching and a strong community for ages 2–13. See how we prepare children not just for senior school, but for life. We’d love to welcome you. Head to our bio above to book your place. #TogetherWeGrow #HighfieldandBrookham #OpenMorning #IndependentSchool #PrepSchool #PrePrep #Nursery #HampshireSchools #SurreySchools #WestSussexSchools #Hampshire #Surrey #WestSussex

170

1 days ago

It’s always wonderful to pause and appreciate the beauty around us and the way each season transforms our surroundings. Autumn is especially breathtaking here, with the grounds coming alive in a spectacular display of colour. We’re so grateful to our dedicated Grounds Team for the care and attention they put into maintaining this beautiful site for our community to enjoy and learn in. #TogetherWeGrow #TogetherWeExplore #Nursery #PrePrep #Prep #CoEdSchool #IndependentSchool #Liphook #Hampshire #Surrey #WestSussex

430

1 days ago

Kickstart the festive season and get ahead of the Christmas rush – join us for a magical Christmas Shopping Evening on Friday 14th November, from 3:30pm to 7:00pm! Enjoy a one-stop festive shopping experience with an incredible mix of local independent stallholders, discover thoughtful gifts, seasonal treats and something special for everyone on your list. @agapesophia_ Albi&Mac By Joanna Ltd @casasantelia @chuckle_soaps Combe Cottage Pottery Craftiful Studio @eco_deco11 @fieldflowershaslemere @fior_skin_care Honeysuckle and Rose Honey Dot Designs @jbpostcards Kaboodlebag @kirstygilespottery Little Fish, Sushi in the Sticks Mousekins.com Noble and Stace Chocolatiers @oarsum_ @100_acres Pup Goes The Easel @ramstergarden.events @reia_store @samfairbairnart @suegriffiths_jewelleryparties @smithyanco @sewn_by_celia @thehawkleyinn Tisan Jewellery Tucca Swim @willinghurstestate @ziorva #SupportLocal #ShopLocal #TogetherWeGrow #Creativity #Nursery #PrePrep #Prep #CoEdSchool #IndependentSchool #Liphook #Hampshire #Surrey #WestSussex

2 days ago

Year 5 and 6 treated us to a wonderful afternoon of music at their autumn term concert. From rock bands to piano, recorder and singing solos, every performance was delivered with heart and enthusiasm. The audience was completely captivated and there was certainly plenty of toe tapping along the way. #TogetherWeGrow #TogetherWeAchieve #AimingHigh #Nursery #PrePrep #Prep #CoEdSchool #IndependentSchool #Liphook #Hampshire #Surrey #WestSussex

430

2 days ago

Kickstart the festive season and get ahead of the Christmas rush – join us for a magical Christmas Shopping Evening on Friday 14th November, from 3:30pm to 7:00pm! Enjoy a one-stop festive shopping experience with an incredible mix of local independent stallholders, discover thoughtful gifts, seasonal treats and something special for everyone on your list. @agapesophia_ @albiandmac @byjoannaofficial @casasantelia @chuckle_soaps @combecottagepottery @craftiful.thecreativestudio @eco_deco11 @fieldflowershaslemere @fior_skin_care @honeysuckleandroseuk @honeydotdesigns @jbpostcards @kaboodlebag @kirstygilespottery @littlefishsushiinthesticks Mousekins.com @nobleandstace @oarsum_ @100_acres @pupgoestheeasel @ramstergarden.events @reia_store @samfairbairnart @suegriffiths_jewelleryparties @smithyanco @sewn_by_celia @thehawkleyinn @tisanjewellery @tuccaswim @willinghurstestate @ziorva #SupportLocal #ShopLocal #TogetherWeGrow #Creativity #Nursery #PrePrep #Prep #CoEdSchool #IndependentSchool #Liphook #Hampshire #Surrey #WestSussex

100

2 days ago

There’s nothing better than being outdoors with friends, having fun and learning new skills and the children on this week’s Bushcraft course did just that. Rain didn’t dampen their spirits as they threw themselves into every activity, from building camps and carving pumpkins to toasting s’mores over the fire. It was a joy to see such big smiles and a real sense of adventure all round. #TogetherWeGrow #SchoolHolidayCourses #Nursery #PrePrep #Prep #CoEdSchool #IndependentSchool #Liphook #Hampshire #Surrey #WestSussex

3 days ago

Our new school magazine is out now! Head to the link in our bio to read. Copies also available from the school reception. #TogetherWeGrow #TogetherWeCelebrate #SchoolMagazine #Nursery #PrePrep #Prep #CoEdSchool #IndependentSchool #Liphook #Hampshire #Surrey #WestSussex

180

3 days ago

The new school magazine is out! Read it here: https://tinyurl.com/School-Magazine-24-25. Copies also available from the school reception. #TogetherWeGrow #TogetherWeCelebrate #SchoolMagazine #Nursery #PrePrep #Prep #CoEdSchool #IndependentSchool #Liphook #Hampshire #Surrey #WestSussex

120

3 days ago

The children on this week’s Multi-Activities course have been busy from start to finish, ziplining, building dens in the woods, swimming, making crafts, playing football and so much more. With something for everyone to enjoy, the course has truly lived up to its name. It’s a week full of laughter, energy and new friendships, all wrapped up in a wonderfully active and fun-filled experience. #TogetherWeGrow #SchoolHolidayCourses #Nursery #PrePrep #Prep #CoEdSchool #IndependentSchool #Liphook #Hampshire #Surrey #WestSussex

390

4 days ago

We’re so proud of our amazing gymnastics team who recently took part in a brand-new competition hosted at @churchers1722. The girls gave outstanding performances on both vault and floor, showing real skill, determination and team spirit. Their hard work paid off with an incredible medal haul, two golds, one silver and one bronze. A huge well done to the whole team on such a fantastic achievement! #TogetherWeGrow #Teamwork #AimingHigh #Nursery #PrePrep #Prep #CoEdSchool #IndependentSchool #Liphook #Hampshire #Surrey #WestSussex

770

4 days ago

A magical education that lasts a lifetime. Join us for our Open Morning on Friday 28th November and discover what makes Highfield and Brookham a special place for children to grow, learn and thrive. With 175 acres of opportunity, our school offers a nurturing environment, inspiring teaching and a strong community for ages 2–13. See how we prepare children not just for senior school, but for life. We’d love to welcome you. Book your place today: https://bit.ly/4hlM7bL #TogetherWeGrow #HighfieldandBrookham #OpenMorning #IndependentSchool #PrepSchool #PrePrep #Nursery #HampshireSchools #SurreySchools #WestSussexSchools #Hampshire #Surrey #WestSussex

130

5 days ago

Excitement filled the school as children from Years 3 to 8 took to the stage for our much-anticipated House Poetry Competition, performing in front of their peers and captivating the audience with laughter and moments of quiet awe. From the haunting words of Edgar Allan Poe to the witty verses of Pam Ayres, the standard was exceptionally high. Guest judge Joshua Levine, bestselling author and historian, praised the talent and creativity on display. Congratulations to all who took part, with Waterloo House taking the win and Livia Dickson named overall individual winner. #TogetherWeGrow #WeLovePoetry #AimingHigh #Creativity #Nursery #PrePrep #Prep #CoEdSchool #IndependentSchool #Liphook #Hampshire #Surrey #WestSussex

611

5 days ago

171

1 weeks ago

A heartwarming moment in Nursery as the children were awarded a special recognition from our head chef for their lovely manners at lunchtime. We’re so proud of the kindness and respect they show each day – it’s these small moments that help nurture big values. #TogetherWeGrow #AimingHigh #Nursery #PrePrep #Prep #CoEdSchool #IndependentSchool #Liphook #Hampshire #Surrey #WestSussex

883

1 weeks ago

Our young scientists in Year 1 have been experimenting with different materials to create their own sponges. They investigated which were the most absorbent, developing their observation skills and scientific thinking. Their minds were like little sponges too, soaking up new vocabulary, big ideas and a real sense of discovery. #TogetherWeGrow #TogetherWeLearn #Listening #AimingHigh #Nursery #PrePrep #Prep #CoEdSchool #IndependentSchool #Liphook #Hampshire #Surrey #WestSussex

160

1 weeks ago

There was tea, cake and plenty of cheerful chatter shared across generations in the Pavilion Café, as Year 8 welcomed their friends from the @liphookdaycentre for afternoon tea. The children regularly visit the centre to enjoy board games, conversations and the occasional choir performance, so it was a real pleasure to invite their friends to the school. #TogetherWeGrow #Listening #CommunityInAction #TeaAndTogetherness #Nursery #PrePrep #Prep #CoEdSchool #IndependentSchool #Liphook #Hampshire #Surrey #WestSussex

500

1 weeks ago

There have been some mysterious goings-on in the boarders’ dorms… With a shared sense of spooky spirit, the children transformed their rooms into haunting hideaways, all vying for the title of ‘Best in Spooky Class’. From cobwebs to creepy creatures, their imaginations ran wild, with results both marvellously macabre and brilliantly creative. The fun didn’t stop there; trick-or-treating and a chilling night-time walk through the woods brought just the right touch of frightful delight. #TogetherWeGrow #TogetherWeCreate #Teamwork #Nursery #PrePrep #Prep #CoEdSchool #IndependentSchool #Liphook #Hampshire #Surrey #WestSussex

1 weeks ago

Reception was bursting with colour and creativity as the children crafted their own Diwali-inspired lanterns, rangoli patterns and decorations. As they explored different cultures and traditions, they discovered the magic of Diwali, the joyful Festival of Lights. It was a wonderful opportunity to experience the rich traditions of the festival and share in its warmth and positivity together. #TogetherWeGrow #TogetherWeExplore #Creativity #Nursery #PrePrep #Prep #CoEdSchool #IndependentSchool #Liphook #Hampshire #Surrey #WestSussex

370

1 weeks ago

Creative juices were flowing in Year 3 as the children brainstormed ideas for their BBC 500 Words entries. Using everyday objects to spark inspiration, they explored plot twists, character ideas and story settings. The room buzzed with excitement as they shared the beginnings of their stories, ready to take them home and finish over half term. #TogetherWeGrow #TogetherWeLearn #AimingHigh #Creativity #Nursery #PrePrep #Prep #CoEdSchool #IndependentSchool #Liphook #Hampshire #Surrey #WestSussex

200

2 weeks ago

Years 3 and 4 marked the first half of term with a joyful autumn concert for parents, featuring individual and ensemble performances and the Year 4 and 5 Choir. The children impressed with their growing confidence and musical progress. It was a warm celebration of the role music plays in building skills, connection and joy. #TogetherWeGrow #TogetherWeAchieve #Nursery #PrePrep #Prep #CoEdSchool #IndependentSchool #Liphook #Hampshire #Surrey #WestSussex

510

2 weeks ago

Year 2 had an unforgettable day at The New Forest Wildlife Park , bringing their ‘Fabulous Forests’ topic to life in the wildest way! From spotting curious creatures to exploring woodland habitats, it was a day full of discovery, laughter and a growing love for the amazing wildlife right here in the UK. #TogetherWeGrow #TogetherWeLearn #Listening #Nursery #PrePrep #Prep #CoEdSchool #IndependentSchool #Liphook #Hampshire #Surrey #WestSussex

180

2 weeks ago

Year 4 explored how different materials block out light today, using torches to test the density of black fabric and paper. This hands-on investigation linked directly to their WWII topic, helping them understand why blackouts were so essential during the war. Practical learning like this brings history to life, deepening understanding and sparking their curiosity. #TogetherWeGrow #ProblemSolving #Teamwork #Nursery #PrePrep #Prep #CoEdSchool #IndependentSchool #Liphook #Hampshire #Surrey #WestSussex

140

2 weeks ago

Today we’ve been celebrating the National Day of Spain, including a delicious paella and churros for lunch! We have a strong bond with our Spanish families, with children joining us each year in Year 7 and/or 8. They join us not only to improve their English, but to experience life in a British boarding school, enriching our community, broadening horizons and forming lasting friendships. Click the link in our bio to learn more. #TogetherWeGrow #TogetherWeThrive #NationalDayOfSpain #BritishSchoolBoarding #Nursery #PrePrep #Prep #CoEdSchool #IndependentSchool #Liphook #Hampshire #Surrey #WestSussex

681

2 weeks ago

The school community came together to mark #WorldMentalHealthDay with a range of thoughtful and uplifting activities. From dancing in the playground and teacher–pupil matches, to calming moments with a wellbeing walk, activities in the Beehive and chess in the library, it was a wonderful reminder of the many ways we can support wellbeing throughout the day. #TogetherWeGrow #TogetherWeThrive #TogetherWeSupport Mental Health Foundation #Nursery #PrePrep #Prep #CoEdSchool #IndependentSchool #Liphook #Hampshire #Surrey #WestSussex

211

2 weeks ago

We’re so proud of how the children led this year’s Harvest Festival collection, inspiring their friends and families to give so generously. This morning, some of them joined Mrs Cryer to deliver the donations to @liphook.foodbank, where the team was truly touched by their generosity. A huge thank you to everyone who contributed, you kindness will be hugely appreciated by those in need. #TogetherWeGrow #AimingHigh #TogetherWeThrive #LiphookFoodBank #Nursery #PrePrep #Prep #CoEdSchool #IndependentSchool #Liphook #Hampshire #Surrey #WestSussex

870

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Together we learn

Nursery

Our Nursery

Core Education

Child-initiated

Outdoor Learning

Free Flow

Open-ended Resources

Food

Rooms

Logistics

Drop off

After School

Pre-Prep

Prep School

Admissions

What we’re up to

view all news

view all news

We are so proud to have earned the Skills Builder Gold Award.