Exeter Cathedral School's former Pre-Prep building to reopen as nursery in spring 2027
Exeter Cathedral School's former Pre-Prep building is to be reborn as a nursery, with Devon Nurseries opening Eden Day Nursery in the grounds of Hall House in spring 2027, caring for children from six months to five years old.
The building that once housed the youngest pupils of Exeter Cathedral School is to be reborn as a nursery.
Devon Nurseries is opening Eden Day Nursery in the grounds of Hall House, 15 Cathedral Close, the former home of the school’s Pre-Prep. It will open in spring 2027 and care for children from six months to five years old.
Exeter Cathedral School, founded in 1179 and the oldest school in the city, closed in July.
Denise Russell, head of nurseries at Devon Nurseries, said: “For decades this building was where the school’s youngest children began their education, and we’re proud to be continuing that, bringing it back to life as a place for the city’s under-fives.”
The nursery takes on the purpose-built nursery building and garden, which sit beneath a 400-year-old holm oak in one of the most historic settings in the city.
Outdoor learning will be central to daily life at Eden, with children spending time in the garden throughout the year, in all seasons. The outdoor space will be transformed into a place for children to play and explore.
Ms Russell said: “Eden Day Nursery will be a small, nurturing nursery where children spend real time outdoors, in a garden few city-centre settings could offer, and we’re looking forward to welcoming our first families next spring.”
Four former members of Exeter Cathedral School staff have joined Devon Nurseries, including Anthony Royle as estates manager, bringing what the company describes as continuity to the site.
Eden will be the sixth setting in the Devon Nurseries group, joining ABC, Acorns, Adventurers, Discovery and Tic Tocs. More information is available at devon-nurseries.com.