Our Story
The Nebula Centre was founded with a simple but powerful belief: that children learn best when they can explore, create, and discover in a natural environment that sparks their curiosity and imagination. Our beautiful forest school setting provides the perfect backdrop for hands-on STEAM education that engages all the senses and nurtures the whole child.
Located in the peaceful countryside of Carrington, our centre offers a unique blend of outdoor adventure and educational excellence. From our friendly goats to our woodland classrooms, every aspect of our environment is designed to inspire wonder and foster a lifelong love of learning.
Our Mission & Values
Our Mission
Our mission is to provide a mixture of prescriptive and open learning experiences, to make learning fun and inspire creativity.
Hands-On Learning
We believe children learn best through direct experience, experimentation, and creative exploration.
Inclusive Community
Every child is welcome and valued for their unique strengths, interests, and way of learning.
Environmental Connection
We foster a deep appreciation for nature and our responsibility as environmental stewards.
Curiosity & Wonder
We nurture natural curiosity and encourage questioning, investigation, and creative thinking.
Collaboration
We work in partnership with families and communities to support each child's development.
Excellence
We maintain the highest standards in education, safety, and care while remaining fun and engaging.
Accreditations & Recognition
Ofsted Registered
We are registered with Ofsted as an educational provider, ensuring we meet the highest standards for safety, curriculum delivery, and child welfare.
Forest School Association
Our programs follow Forest School Association principles and are led by qualified Level 3 Forest School practitioners.
Enhanced Safety Standards
All staff hold enhanced DBS checks, pediatric first aid training, and regular safeguarding updates to ensure child safety and wellbeing.
Get In Touch
Visit Us
The Nebula Centre
Vicarage Gardens
Manchester Road
Carrington
Manchester
M31 4AG
Getting Here:
If coming from Sale/Flixton, turn left after Air Products. If coming from Partington, turn right just after Galloway Construction.
Call Us
Office Hours:
Wednesday: 9:30am - 2:30pm
Thursday: 9:30am - 2:30pm
Friday: 9:30am - 2:30pm
During Sessions:
If calling during class times, please leave a message and we'll get back to you as soon as possible.
Email Us
Response Time:
We aim to respond to all emails within 24 hours during weekdays.
What to Email:
- General enquiries
- Booking questions
- Alternative provision enquiries
- Party booking requests
- Feedback and suggestions
Find Us
Interactive Map
Vicarage Gardens, Manchester Road, Carrington, Manchester M31 4AG
Click to open in Google Maps for directions
Stay Connected
School Provisions
We offer class bookings and alternative education.
Class Forest School Sessions
Join us for a day at The Nebula Centre! Based in the forest school setting and guided by our experienced staff, children will try new skills such as whittling and fire building, learn about their environment, use the woodland to build some awesome dens and finish the sessions off with toasting marshmallows.
We supply 1 member of staff, pupils must also be accompanied by a staff member from school.
For enquiries and booking, please email info@nebulacentre.co.uk
Frequently Asked Questions
What age children do you work with?
We welcome children from age 1 through 12 across our different programs. STEM Adventurers is for ages 1-4 (with parent), STEM Club is for ages 5-12, holiday clubs serve ages 5-12, birthday parties can accommodate ages 4-12, and our alternative provision is for Year 1+ pupils.
Do you run sessions in all weather?
Yes! We believe there's no such thing as bad weather, only inappropriate clothing. We have covered areas and indoor spaces available when needed, but most of our activities happen outdoors regardless of weather. We'll provide guidance on appropriate clothing for each session.
Are your weekly classes really free?
Yes, absolutely! Our Sunday STEM Adventurers and STEM Club sessions are completely free with no hidden costs. We believe hands-on STEAM education should be accessible to all families. Just book through our Bookwhen system to secure your spot.
What should my child wear to sessions?
Children should wear weather-appropriate clothing that can get dirty! We recommend layered clothing, waterproof jackets, wellington boots or sturdy outdoor shoes, and always bring a complete change of clothes. Getting muddy is part of the fun!
Do you cater for children with additional needs?
Absolutely! We welcome all children and adapt our activities to ensure everyone can participate fully. Please let us know about any specific needs when booking so we can prepare appropriately. Our alternative provision is particularly experienced with diverse learning needs.
How do I book a birthday party?
Call us on 07572 573 958 or email info@nebulacentre.co.uk to discuss your party ideas and check availability. We recommend booking at least 3 weeks in advance. A £50 deposit secures your date, with the balance due on the day.