Our Nursery Staff

Photo of Zen Stedman, Nursery Manager
“I believe that childcare is an invaluable service to parents and if you instil a love for learning in children during their early years, it has a positive impact on their future lives – and this is what motivates me.”
Zen Stedman, Nursery Manager
“It is incredibly special to witness the youngest members of our family community grow through the individualised programmes delivered within our Nursery’s Lodge, Cottage and idyllic grounds. These children continue their journey through Early Years at Kent College with a variety of skills and knowledge but, most importantly, are settled, happy and excited to learn."”
Mr Simon James, Head of Junior School
Photo of Mr Simon James, Head of Junior Schooll

Our team of dedicated and highly-qualified staff is led by Nursery Manager, Zen Stedman. She works closely with Simon James, Head Master of Kent College Junior School and our Early Years and Pre-Reception teachers and team. An added advantage if children progress on to Early Years and Reception in Kent College is that they are already familiar with the surroundings and many of the staff, ensuring a smooth transition into Junior school life. There are 14 fully qualified nursery practitioners within the Garden cottage Nursery which along with the Manager also includes a Deputy manager and 2 Supervisors.

Partnership with parents

Garden Cottage Nursery recognises that parents are a child’s first and most important teachers, and we believe that working in partnership with parents is crucial to the success and development of our children. We work with parents as their child learns and progresses, and wherever possible we try to incorporate parents’ requests into our routines.
We always welcome suggestions from parents. Parents Open Days/Evenings are held regularly during the year, and parents will be given notice of these dates. We are available to provide daily contact or feedback to parents as required.



What our parents say

"The nursery at Kent College is exceptional. Its personal care and small setting are a huge reassurance to a parent settling a child for the first time. The excellent staff are warm, caring and professional. Activities are planned to engage the children in what they enjoy with a focus tailored to the next steps of development. It is clear that the standards here are a cut above the rest!"

"The transition into the nursery has been a lovely experience. I could not be happier with how well he has settled and what a happy little boy he is with you."

"I could not have hoped for anyone more caring, efficient and friendly to look after the children!"

"He is in his element and literally doesn’t want to come home at pick up time!"

"The Cottage is visually so stimulating and imaginative. What I would really like is a day off work to come and play there myself!"

"A truly outstanding nursery. We have loved seeing our daughter flourish in such a nurturing environment. The staff are fantastic."

We look forward to your visit.

Contact us at nursery@kentcollege.co.uk or call +44 (0)1227 762436

Photo of Mr A Carter, Head Master
Photo of Zen Stedman, Nursery Manager
Zen Stedman
Photo Coming soon
Photo Coming soon
Photo Coming soon
  • Kent College Canterbury, Whitstable Road, Canterbury, Kent, CT2 9DT, UK





How to reach us:
Located on the edge of Canterbury

Kent College Junior School, Harbledown, Canterbury CT2 9AQ, UK

Canterbury centre 8 mins 1.5 miles
Whitstable 18 mins 6 miles
Faversham 13 mins 8 miles
Wye 21 mins 10 miles
Bridge 13 mins 6 miles
Sturry 16 mins 5 miles