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Our Values - Independent Nursery School in Putney
Built on Care, Experience & School-Readiness
Our values guide everything we do. From the way we welcome families to how we support each child’s early learning, our approach is rooted in care, trust, and a deep respect for childhood. We are a long-established nursery school in Putney, based at Lady North Hall, serving local families who want their children’s first experience of education to be positive, nurturing, and purposeful.
Our Story & Local Roots
Square One Nursery began with a simple but powerful belief that early education should be kind, supportive, and centred around the individual child. Opening in 1971, the nursery quickly became part of the local community, offering a calm and caring environment where young children could feel safe and confident.
As a proudly independent nursery, we have remained focused on what matters most: children’s well-being, strong relationships with families, and a thoughtful approach to learning. Much of our growth has come from word of mouth within the local community, reflecting the trust families place in us year after year.
Our Core Values
Children Always Come First
At Square One Nursery, children are at the centre of every decision. Our exceptionally high staff-to-pupil ratio of 1:4 allows us to give each child the time, attention, and reassurance they need. This approach helps children feel secure, confident, and ready to learn within a supportive Putney nursery school environment.
Experience You Can Trust
Our nursery is led and staffed by highly experienced practitioners who understand early years education and child development. This experience allows us to respond calmly and thoughtfully to each child, supporting their emotional, social, and educational growth during these important early years.
Education with Purpose & Preparation
We believe early learning should prepare children for what comes next. Our focus on helping children become Year One ready shapes daily activities and routines. From introducing reading books for four-year-olds to encouraging independence and curiosity, our approach supports a smooth transition to school for families in Putney.
Honest Relationships with Families
Strong relationships with families are central to our values. As a small, independent nursery school, we take the time to listen, communicate openly, and offer personalised guidance. This includes thoughtful advice on which local primary schools may suit each child, based on individual needs and personality.
Respect for Play, Space & Childhood
Outdoor learning and play are a vital part of daily life at our nursery. With the biggest garden in Putney for a nursery school, children are encouraged to explore, move, and learn through hands-on experiences that support healthy development and wellbeing.
The People Behind the Values
Square One Nursery is owned and managed by Michelle Pittam, who plays an active role in every part of the nursery. Michelle is passionate about ensuring that each child’s first experience of education is a positive one. Her hands-on approach helps maintain the warm, personal atmosphere that families in Putney value and trust.
What Makes Us Different
Our values translate into daily practice. Our high staff-to-pupil ratio, experienced team, strong focus on school readiness, and wide range of enrichment activities, including sports, Spanish, music, gymnastics, and tasting sessions, all exist to support children’s development rather than follow trends.
As a single nursery rather than a chain, we are able to remain flexible, personal, and responsive to the needs of local families.
Testimonials
Happy Parents
Visit our Welcoming & Inclusive Nursery School
If you would like to learn more about us, we invite you to get in touch and arrange a visit. Speaking with us directly allows us to answer your questions, show you our nursery setting, and discuss how we can support your child’s early learning journey in a caring and experienced local environment.
Contact Us
020 8788 1546
Send a message
enquiries@squareonenursery.com
Visit Us
Lady North Hall 12 Ravenna Road Putney SW15 6AW
