About us
Phoenix Early Learners is a nurturing, values-led preschool dedicated to giving every child a confident and compassionate start.
Our story
Phoenix Early Learners is a new enterprise from the manager, staff and parents of a recently-closed setting that proudly served the Crofton and Petts Wood communities for nearly 50 years. Our name and location may have changed, but we’re led by the same experienced and nurturing team, now supported by a committed group of volunteers made up of parents of former pupils.
In a fast-moving and uncertain world, one thing remains unchanged: virtue always triumphs. By nurturing the right heart and character, we prepare children not just for school — but for life.
That’s why we offer more than education — we offer a foundation built on the virtues of Kindness, Respect, Confidence, Curiosity, and Inclusion. These guide everything we do and are woven through warm relationships, thoughtful routines, meaningful play, and a deep partnership with families. Our ethos is rooted in Christian teaching blended with an inclusive culture where all are welcome.
We know today’s parents lead incredibly busy lives, balancing work, family, and countless responsibilities. Our partnership with parents is accessible, communicative, and open. We keep families informed, listen to their insights, share progress clearly, and create simple ways to stay connected — ensuring parents always feel supported, never overwhelmed.
Our virtue-led approach helps children become confident, joyful learners who feel safe, valued, and excited to explore. Through a rich play-based curriculum and secure emotional care, every child grows in independence and self-belief. We know each child as an individual, offering tailored support, inclusive practice, and close collaboration with specialists when needed.
Phoenix Early Learners. Strong virtues shape bright futures.
Our values
Kindness
We model kindness by encouraging children to help their friends, share toys, and understand the feelings of others. Our staff celebrate small acts of compassion daily.
Respect
Children learn to care for their environment and each other. We use positive reinforcement to help them develop self-regulation and understand boundaries.
Confidence in Action
From pouring their own water to leading a group game, we provide safe opportunities for children to try new things and grow in independence.
Curiosity
Our curriculum is play-led. Whether it’s bugs in the garden or mixing paints, we encourage the “why” and “how” of everything.
Inclusion
We believe every child deserves the best start. We provide robust SEND support and celebrate the diverse backgrounds of our community.
Our Facilities
Our setting has been thoughtfully designed to feel warm, safe and inspiring. From inviting indoor learning spaces to engaging outdoor areas, every part of Phoenix encourages curiosity, creativity and confidence.
Children enjoy access to age-appropriate resources, cosy corners for quiet moments and open spaces that invite exploration and movement. We believe the environment is a powerful teacher, and ours reflects the care and intention behind everything we do.
Ofsted Reports
As a new setting, we don’t yet have a report from Ofsted, and we expect to receive our first inspection in the coming months. However, our experienced management team previously managed a local setting rated as Outstanding for several years and they bring the same high standards of care and education with them to Phoenix Early Learners.
Our policies
You can find our main policies and term dates here: Our Policies.
Current and prospective parents and carers of pre-school children may also find our Parent Hub useful.
Katie, parent
Beth, parent
Phoenix Early Learners is a really wonderful pre-school. The whole team are nurturing and consistent and friendly and fun and they really see the children as individuals. Our daughter has been supported from day one and is celebrated at preschool for who she is and for all of her potential. She has learnt many new skills, made friends and above all has felt safe and secure and enjoys every day. The team have a wealth of experience and knowledge in teaching the preschool curriculum and offer tailored learning programmes to meet each child’s needs and strengths. I recommend Phoenix Early Learners to every parent I meet and am so thankful that our child has the opportunity to benefit from the pre-school.
Cassie, parent
Our preschooler started at Phoenix Early Learners when we moved into the area and he settled instantly. He loves all the activities and thanks to the recent tadpole activity, can even say and explain metamorphosis! The nursery staff are all friendly to adults, caring to the children and just a pleasure to speak to. Highly recommend