Looking for excellent childcare in Exmouth?
Choosing a nursery is a big decision. You're not just looking for childcare — you're looking for a place where your child will feel safe, happy and supported, and where you can go to work knowing they're truly cared for.
At Dolphin Pre‑school & Nursery, we help children settle confidently, build strong foundations for learning, and enjoy every day in a calm, nurturing environment designed around their needs — not just their age.
Trusted by 1000's of families
in Exmouth & surrounding areas since 2011
"When I was looking for a nursery for my little boy I knew what I was looking for and when I came to visit The Dolphin I knew they were what I was looking for. 100% the best nursery in Exmouth."
"The whole team at the Dolphin nursery are amazing. Right from the first nursery tour they were welcoming and reassuring. My daughter absolutely loves it."
The Dolphin Pre School & Nursery in Exmouth, Devon
We provide a wonderful, friendly and engaging environment for your children. Our dedicated team provide first class care and learning experiences, while our catering team serve fresh home-cooked meals made in our own kitchen.
- We supply everything - nappies, wipes, bottles & more
- Beautifully equipped rooms for each age range
- Close to Exmouth Beach and nearby parks
- Delicious home cooked meals by our own chef
- Parent grab and go refreshment station
- Personal paper-based record of your child's journey
Open 51
Weeks a Year
Weeks Open
Team Members
Combined Experience
Places Available
Why families choose Dolphin
For many families in Exmouth, Dolphin is more than a nursery — it's the place where their child takes their first confident steps away from home.
With an experienced, caring team and a thoughtfully designed environment, we support children and parents through one of the most important early transitions in life. From the first day, our focus is helping your child feel secure, understood and excited to learn.
A calm start. A confident future.
Every child develops differently. That's why we don't rush children or expect them to "fit in". Instead, we create a calm, consistent routine that helps children:
- Feel safe and settled
- Build confidence and independence
- Develop social skills at their own pace
- Enjoy learning through play
We follow the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS), but you don't need to worry about the framework — our role is to translate it into meaningful, enjoyable experiences that support your child's growth every day.
Rooms & Environment
Spaces designed around how children grow
Our rooms are carefully planned to support children at each stage of development — emotionally, socially and physically. Rather than simply separating children by age, each space encourages the next step in their journey, from early bonding and routine to school readiness and independence. Your child will enjoy:
- Calm, welcoming rooms
- Safe, engaging play areas
- Quiet spaces for rest and reassurance
- Outdoor areas that encourage exploration and confidence
Food & Care Routines
Nourishing routines that support wellbeing
Mealtimes and care routines are an important part of your child's day. Our freshly prepared meals and calm routines help children feel secure, supported and comfortable.
Food is prepared on site and designed to encourage healthy habits, independence and positive social interaction.
Parent Partnership
Keeping you connected and reassured
We understand how hard it can be to leave your child, especially in the early days. That's why clear, regular communication is a priority. We keep you informed about your child's day, progress and wellbeing, so you always feel confident, connected and involved.
Learning Through Play
Learning that feels natural, not forced
Children learn best when they feel relaxed, curious and engaged.
Through play‑based learning, we support all seven areas of the EYFS, helping children develop language, confidence, problem‑solving skills and creativity — all while having fun.
Each day is carefully planned, but flexible enough to follow children's interests and needs.