All aboutRosemary Nursery Schoolin Bristol
Rosemary Nursery holds the distinction of being Bristol’s oldest nursery school, dating back to the 1920s. Located in St Jude’s behind Cabot Circus in the city centre, Rosemary Nursery is described by Ofsted as “a very beautiful school” and “an oasis of care,” Rosemary Nursery provides a hidden gem of outdoor space nestled within this bustling inner-city area. The well-utilised garden creates opportunities for children to engage in various outdoor experiences, including gardening and forest school activities. The nursery takes pride in being part of a diverse community, welcoming families from many different backgrounds. With experienced practitioners creating a caring and nurturing environment, Rosemary Nursery supports children to become independent, resilient, and confident in their play and learning.

Why chooseRosemary Nursery School

Century of Early Education Excellence
As Bristol’s oldest nursery school with roots dating back to the 1920s, Rosemary Nursery brings a century of educational experience to its work with young children. This long-standing presence in the community represents a remarkable legacy of service to generations of Bristol families. The nursery has been recognised for its dedication to serving the inner-city area for decades, providing crucial early educational opportunities. This historical commitment to educational access forms the foundation of Rosemary’s approach, blending time-tested wisdom with contemporary early years practice.

Urban Oasis for Nature Connection
Despite its city centre location, Rosemary Nursery offers what Ofsted has described as “a very beautiful school” and “an oasis of care.” The nursery’s large outside space serves as a hidden gem nestled within the bustling urban environment of St Jude’s. This carefully designed outdoor area provides children with rich opportunities to engage with nature through gardening, forest school activities, and exploratory play. The contrast between the nursery’s tranquil setting and its urban surroundings creates a special environment where children can experience the benefits of nature connection while remaining within the city’s heart.

Diverse, Inclusive Community
Rosemary Nursery celebrates its position within a diverse community, actively welcoming families from many different backgrounds. This inclusive approach enriches the learning environment for all children, exposing them to various cultures, languages, and perspectives from an early age. The nursery’s commitment to partnership with parents recognises that families know their children best and that their support and encouragement make a significant difference to children’s learning. Parents particularly appreciate how teachers take good care of the children, creating a nurturing environment where each child can settle meaningfully and reach their full potential regardless of their background.
Rosemary Nursery Schooloffers
Open: Term-time only
Session Times: 8:30am - 3:30pm
2-Year-Old Provision
3-4 Year-Old Provision
Funded 15-Hour/30-Hour Places
Exceptional Outdoor Spaces

What people say aboutRosemary Nursery School
It feels like family here. I know my child will be looked after like he’s at home.
You always greet [my child] with a smile which makes me know he’s going to have a good day with you. He loves coming to nursery.
We have moved to the other side of Bristol but still want to send [my child] to Rosemary as she loves it so much!
What's happening atRosemary Nursery School
New Website Launches for Bristol’s Maintained Nursery Schools
Bristol's Maintained Nursery Schools are proud to announce the launch of our new website, celebrating nearly a century of exceptional early years education across the city. This new digital platform showcases Bristol's remarkable network of nursery schools, some of...
Messy Play and Natural Discovery: The Rosemary Nursery School Embraces Outdoor Learning in Bristol’s City Centre
Sensory Mud Exploration Develops Investigation Skills and Scientific Understanding Children at The Rosemary Nursery School have been immersed in rich sensory learning through their comprehensive mud tray exploration activities. This Bristol early years setting,...