A safe and nurturing environment where your child can grow, play and learn through exploration and discovery.
Experienced and caring staff dedicated to supporting your child's individual development journey in our beautiful Mersea Island setting.
Hear from parents who have entrusted their children to our care at Mulberry Bush Mersea Day Nursery.
"My son's been attending the Mulberry Bush since January and it's safe to say he loves it!!! He's always asking when he's going to his "new playschool!" He really is enjoying his time, and will soon be starting another day after Easter holidays. It's a very cute playschool with plenty of room for the kids to play and learn, and well trained staff."
"The Mulberry Bush is a great nursery. My son loves it there. He always comes home with beautiful art work and a big sleep smile. The staff are super lovely and very welcoming. Would highly recommend."
"Great staffing ratio, lots of time for parents to discuss development of their child and support for them."
At Mulberry Bush Mersea Day Nursery, we provide an exceptional environment where your child's early years education flourishes through play, care, and individual attention.
Our qualified team brings years of early years expertise and continuous professional development.
Engaging natural play areas that stimulate exploration and connect children with nature.
Healthy, balanced meals and snacks prepared fresh daily, catering to all dietary requirements.
A nurturing approach that supports emotional development and builds a foundation for lifelong learning.
We honour the outstanding legacy built over two decades, preserving the values and vision that define our nurturing approach. Under new ownership since Spring 2025, we are excited to:
Further integrating Montessori principles (fostering independence and cognitive skills indoors) with our Forest & Coastal School ethos (building resilience, creativity, and nature connection outdoors).
Responding to community needs, we are thrilled to be opening a dedicated baby room in September 2025, allowing us to welcome infants from 9 months old.
Offering extended opening hours (7 am - 6 pm, 50 weeks) to better suit busy working parents.
More Than Just a Nursery: The Mulberry Bush is woven into the fabric of West Mersea's history. Since 1921, our site on Melrose Road has served the community - first as 'The Gables' private home, then as the much-remembered St Michael's Preparatory School (home of the famous 'Tin Lizzie' classroom!), later as the local Council Offices, and since 2000, as the beloved Mulberry Bush Nursery. We are proud custodians of this heritage, ensuring the laughter and learning continue for generations to come.
a cherished local nursery with deep roots in the West Mersea community. Situated in a building with over a century of history - once a family home, a preparatory school, and even council offices - we are proud to continue a legacy of nurturing children on this historic site.
Now entering an exciting new chapter under the leadership of owner Emma Paramor, we are building upon our strong foundations. Inspired by the child-led discovery of Montessori and the adventurous spirit of Forest and Coastal School, we offer a unique environment where children from 9 months to 5 years old learn through exploration, play, and connection with the natural world right here on beautiful Mersea Island.
Discover the enriching activities, nurturing routines, and joyful learning that fill a typical day at Mulberry Bush Mersea. Peek into our world of exploration and fun.
Explore Our DayA special celebration for our preschoolers who are moving on to primary school, featuring performances, certificate presentations, and refreshments.
Read MoreJoin us for a day of fun with games, activities, food stalls, and entertainment for the whole family to enjoy.
Read MoreJoin our educational experts for an interactive workshop on supporting your child's early literacy development at home.
Read MoreEnroll your child in our exciting summer holiday program featuring ocean-themed activities, beach trips, and marine conservation projects.
Read MoreFollowing the exciting news of our expansion and continued commitment to exceptional early years education on Mersea Island, The Mulberry Bush is looking for dedicated and enthusiastic individuals to join our wonderful team.
Inspired by Montessori principles and the adventure of Forest & Coastal School, we offer a unique, nurturing environment where both children and staff thrive. If you have a passion for helping children learn through exploration and play and want to work in a supportive setting that values its team, we want to hear from you!
Whether you are experienced, newly qualified, or looking to start your career in this rewarding sector, we offer a fantastic place to grow.
Interested in learning more about joining our team?
Apply Today