Markenfield, Guildford
Old School Close,
Markenfield Road
Guildford
Surrey
GU1 4QJ
Tel: 01483 458 877
ma*********@**************co.uk
Download Report
Download our Ofsted Report
Located in Woodbridge, Guildford, Castle Nursery at Markenfield is a purpose-built nursery offering high-quality care for up to 80 children.
The nursery features five dedicated rooms. Three for our youngest children under two, a bright age-appropriate room for our two- to three-year-olds, and a preschool room suitable for up to 32 children. Each space is carefully designed to support learning and development through play, exploration and discovery.
Children enjoy access to a well-equipped garden, providing opportunities to explore and play every day. Our dedicated Forest School programme for preschoolers, helps children build confidence, independence and a lasting respect for the natural world. We also maintain strong links with local schools and groups, including clubs such as Brownies and Beavers, fostering community connections for our children and families.
Our on-site professional kitchen is the heart of our nursery community, where our chef and assistant chef prepare freshly cooked, nutritious meals each day. The kitchen also provides meals for our other Castle Nursery settings, catering to the dietary needs of up to 160 children across the group.
Many of our practitioners have been part of the Markenfield family for several years, with a core team who have been with us for over five years, and six long-standing staff members who have worked here for more than a decade. This stability and experience ensures a consistent, warm environment where every child can thrive.
Our management team
Leanne Ellis, Nursery Manager
With children of her own, Leanne brings both personal insight and professional expertise to her role. She holds qualifications in childcare and early years management along with considerable experience as a nursery practitioner, having worked in the sector since 2002, including over 15 years in management.
Leanne is passionate about creating an environment where children can have fun and directs activity in the nursery to encourage exploration and investigation wherever possible. A proactive and supportive leader, she mentors her team to grow in confidence and skill, while maintaining a strong, personal connection with every child in her care.
Chelsea Heyward, Deputy Nursery Manager
Chelsea has worked at Markenfield since 2021 and has over a decade of experience in childcare. She has a particular passion for working with children under two, finding joy in supporting their earliest milestones, from first steps to first words. Chelsea’s enthusiasm and nurturing approach help create a calm and engaging environment for the youngest children. Outside of nursery life, she is a keen follower of women’s football and a proud dog mum to two Jack Russells, Bailey and Jackson.
Hours open
Monday to Friday, 8:00am to 6:00pm, with the option of an early start from 7:30am or a late finish up to 6:30pm
Age range
3 months to 5 years