"We couldn't be happier with the care our baby receives in the baby room at this nursery. From the very beginning, the staff have been…"
Read all 13 reviews
80 Places
Location Type
Day Nursery
1st Place at The Elephant in London is a supportive early years setting for young children.
Children are given the chance to have fun in a safe setting while developing their skills.
Skilled ... Read more
"We've had two children at this nursery- our eldest is now in primary school but our youngest still attends. They have received the highest…"
Read all 18 reviews
64 Places
Location Type
Day Nursery
1st Place at Chumleigh Gardens is a day nursery for children aged 6 months to 5 years.
Inspired by the Reggio Emilia approach, 1st Place provides a unique learning experience. Every child is ... Read more
Type of Nursery
Day Nursery
Open all year
Full Day Care
Sessional Day Care
1st Place Children and Parents' Centre Reviews in London (31)
9.1
1st Place Children and Parents' Centre has a Group Review Score of 9.1 (9.110) out of 10. The Group Review Score is calculated using the average from all locations with a Review Score, and in addition 75%+ of all locations belonging to 1st Place Children and Parents' Centre must have a Review Score.
Overall Experience
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from Kendall S (Mother of Child) published on 23 April 2026
Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience5.0 out of 5
We've had two children at this nursery- our eldest is now in primary school but our youngest still attends. They have received the highest level of care, love and attention that we could have hoped for since they were babies. The staff are exceptionally talented, experienced, consistent and loving.
They have encouraged our children's emotional, social, physical and intellectual development, gotten to know their unique personalities in detail, built strong bonds with them, and created a space that our kids feel safe in and delight in.
The facilities are amazing, they do so many varied activities through the week (forest school, football lessons, all sorts of sensory play and mixed medium art!), and also give them time to simply play, and feel at home when they're away from home. The food is nutritious and varied. I cannot express my gratitude enough to the incredible staff of 1st Place who uphold these standards each and every day. We feel so lucky to be there.
Reply from Rachael Burton, Communications and Marketing Manager at 1st Place at Chumleigh GardensThank you so much for taking the time to write such a lovely and detailed review. It really means a lot to our team to hear about your positive experience, and we're so glad you're happy with the care and support provided.
from P B (Father of Child) published on 1 April 2026
Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience5.0 out of 5
We are privileged to have our two children attend this fantastic nursery. We' ve felt nothing but care from the staff for both of them, our kids especially love their key workers. Our son is preparing for reception in September and this transition is feeling more manageable with all the support he has
received. Our daughter has also settled in well with our return to work after parental leave. We are always impressed by how well they know them, myself and my wife would highly recommend Chumleigh gardens to all parents, we drop off the kids everyday knowing they are in safe hands.
Reply from Rachael Burton, Communications and Marketing Manager at 1st Place at Chumleigh GardensThank you for taking the time to leave such a lovely review, it means a lot to our team. Starting primary school is such an exciting milestone, we're really pleased to hear that your family have felt supported with this. If you have any questions or concerns about the transition, please feel free to pop in for a chat at any time. We look forward to seeing you at the Graduation Ceremony!
from A S (Father of Child) published on 29 March 2026
Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience5.0 out of 5
1st Place has been a great place for my son to attend. Staff have been supportive of my son and my family - particularly in difficult times over the last few years. The facilities are excellent, with a great amount of outdoor space - the facilities are within Burgess park also, which provides great
access to additional outdoor space for activities and play. In each of the rooms / stages of my son's time at the nursery all the staff have been great both with the kids and parents. We have made good connections and made a community with parents also which has been great also
Reply from Rachael Burton, Communications and Marketing Manager at 1st Place at Chumleigh GardensThank you for taking the time to share your experience. It means a lot to our team to hear that you and your son have felt supported, and we're pleased to hear that you've felt part of the community here too - that's something we really value at 1st Place. We're always here if you need us.
from P B (Mother of Child) published on 9 March 2026
Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience5.0 out of 5
We couldn't be happier with the care our baby receives in the baby room at this nursery. From the very beginning, the staff have been incredibly warm, attentive, and nurturing, which made settling in so much easier for both our little one and us as parents.
The baby room is always clean, calm, and
thoughtfully set up with age-appropriate toys and activities that support development. We love how the team plans sensory play, music time, and messy play activities that encourage curiosity and learning, even at such a young age.
What truly stands out is how caring and responsive the staff are. They take the time to understand each baby's individual routine, preferences, and needs. We receive regular updates about naps, feeds, and activities throughout the day, which gives us real peace of mind. we love the activities picture sent at the end of the day . she really enjoys going to nursery and play with her friends.
Reply from Sara Noor, Early Education Manager at 1st Place at The ElephantThank you so much for your kind words. Were really happy to hear that your little one enjoys coming to nursery and playing with her friends. It means a lot to our team to know that the updates and photos give you peace of mind. We truly appreciate your feedback and your trust in us.
from T I (Father of Child) published on 22 September 2025
Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience5.0 out of 5
Our son joined this nursery about a year and a half ago without speaking any English. Thanks to the warm and caring teachers, by the time he graduated he was able to communicate with confidence and enjoy daily life at the nursery.
He learned important social skills and daily routines, and he made many
friends along the way. We were very happy to see his growth in independence and his ability to connect with others.
The teachers always created a safe, supportive, and welcoming environment where our son could feel comfortable and happy. The balance of learning, play, and interaction helped him develop in a positive way.
Now, as he moves on to the next stage of education, he does so with confidence and a positive outlook. We are very grateful to all the staff for their dedication and kindness.
Reply from Rachael Burton, Communications and Marketing Manager at 1st Place at The ElephantThank you so much for your kind words. We're delighted to hear about your son's progress and confidence since joining us. It's wonderful to know he felt supported, made friends, and grew in independence during his time here. We're proud of all he has achieved and wish him every success as he starts the next stage of his education. Your gratitude means a lot to our whole team.
from Daniel B (Father of Child) published on 22 September 2025
Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience5.0 out of 5
Both of our sons passed through First Place nurseries - formerly at Lorrimore Square, now at the Elephant - and we were incredibly happy with the care that they both received across the combined five year period. The staff were consistently brilliant - helpful and considerate whenever any issues arose,
organising trips, and the forest school was excellent. Both of the boys miss their friends and carers at First Place and talk about their time there fondly.
Reply from Rachael Burton, Communications and Marketing Manager at 1st Place at The ElephantThank you, Daniel, for sharing such lovely feedback. We're delighted to hear both your sons had such positive experiences with us over the years. It's wonderful to know that the trips, Forest School, and the care provided by our team made a lasting impression. We'll be sure to share your kind words with the staff-they will be thrilled to hear your boys remember their time here so fondly.
from Hui T (Mother of Child) published on 19 September 2025
Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience5.0 out of 5
My child was at 1st Place nursery from 8-months old till the start of school. She was consistently well cared for. There was a daily update of what she had done, if she had slept, what she had eaten (or not!), and sometimes a photo of the activity. The formal reports were also helpful. It was lovely
to talk to staff who were as interested in my child's development as I was. As a first time mother, it was wonderful to feel supported through my concerns. My child thrived in this environment. The staff were communicative and helpful even through the big emotional upheaval of moving from one nursery location to another in a very stressful circumstance. We are very grateful to have chanced upon such a great nursery. Our lives were made a lot easier knowing that our child was well cared for while we worked.
Reply from Rachael Burton, Communications and Marketing Manager at 1st Place at The ElephantThank you so much for your kind words. We're delighted to hear about your son's progress and confidence since joining us. It's wonderful to know he felt supported, made friends, and grew in independence during his time here. We're proud of all he has achieved and wish him every success as he starts the next stage of his education. Your gratitude means a lot to our whole team
from R T (Mother of Child) published on 23 June 2025
Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience5.0 out of 5
Both my children have gone to first place and have been extremely happy. The nursery staff are caring, thoughtful and sensible. They really get to know the kids and understand their foibles. The setting is bright, clean and has great outdoor space. All the kids are active and physical throughout the
day and they have opportunities to play sports. The kids all say that the chef makes the best jollof rice ever. I honestly couldn't have asked for a better provider for my children and I will miss them greatly.
from B T (Mother of Child) published on 13 May 2025
Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience5.0 out of 5
All the staff are so wonderful and happy, and my son really gets on with them all. They've got great facilities, and have wonderful outdoor space where they spend a lot of time and they have forest school. The staff are dedicated to making it an amazing place for the kids, they were also very accommodating
when my son had an operation and had certain needs. Highly recommend
from Kate A (Mother of Child) published on 27 March 2025
Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience5.0 out of 5
We've been with 1st Place since my daughter-now four-joined the Baby Room at a previous nursery when she was one. When that nursery merged with 1st Place Elephant last year, we chose to move with them, even though it's less convenient for us. That's a real testament to the team, who have always been
exceptionally warm and caring.
Our son joined 1st Place Elephant when he turned one and is thriving. Both kids are very happy there. They're well cared for and always busy with a variety of activities. We really appreciate the regular trips - Forest School sessions, visits to museums, and other days out. And our kids also love spending time in the studio, working on art projects. It's in the same building, but they're always excited to go!
And while it might seem like a small thing, we really value the nursery's use of reusable nappies. I don't know of any others that do, and it must have prevented thousands of disposables from going to landfill. That's no small thing.
from Eva T (Mother of Child) published on 24 March 2025
Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience5.0 out of 5
I am very satisfied with the care and education my son receives at 1st place. The staff's friendliness and dedication have created a nurturing environment where my child feels welcomed and valued. Since joining, he has made remarkable progress in his learning and development, a testament to the team's
commitment to individualised growth. Also, The regular and insightful feedback provided keeps me well-informed about his daily experiences and achievements.
from L S (Mother of Child) published on 16 January 2025
Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience5.0 out of 5
Wonderful nursery with great facilities and very dedicated staff. Our 2 kids attended the nursery and we could not be happier with their ways they are cared for, their learning and the ways in which they develop their confidence. This nursery also offer great healthy food cooked onsite and one day a
from L S (Mother of Child) published on 14 June 2024
Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience5.0 out of 5
I can't rant enough about how brilliant 1st place is. I am so happy that my daughter comes here, the staff are wonderful and go above and beyond for all the children. It's a magical and nutritional environment for them and I have seen my daughter blossom over the past couple of months of being here.
There
is continuous and well-documented feedback about my daughter's progress as well as plenty of pictures of her playing with other children. I always feel very much involved in her progress and development. The management is always present and takes the time to say hello and if we have any concerns we feel comfortable enough to address them. It's a family-orientated nursery and you don't often get this feeling in other settings so we are very pleased. Thank you to everyone for everything.
Reply from Rachael Burton, Communications and Marketing Manager at 1st Place at The ElephantThank you so much for taking the time to leave us such a lovely and detailed review. I have passed your feedback on to The Elephant team. We're very pleased to hear that you and your child are happy at 1st Place.
from I N (Mother of Child) published on 14 June 2024
Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience5.0 out of 5
Our daughter has been at 1st Place at the Elephant since it opened, having transferred from 1st Place Cambridge House when it closed.
We could not be happier with the nursery, our daughter is well cared for and stimulated. Their child-led approach gives the children agency over the activities and how
they play.
The staff are fantastic, patient, caring, and engaged with the children. Our daughter talks about them and knows them all as individuals as well as the people who look after her during the day.
The relatively small size of the nursery and its central location means they have easy access to transport and central London. They often go on trips to museums or shows and explore the city in small groups on foot too. They also have access to a Forest School which our daughter has loved, especially when she was taught how to safely use a saw to cut wood!
Thank you to all the staff, you do an amazing job!
from Regan O (Mother of Child) published on 14 June 2024
Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience5.0 out of 5
I am a mother of a 15-month-old and I cannot speak highly enough of 1st Place. Without a doubt, this nursery deserves a 5-star rating in every aspect.
My son absolutely loves it there, and it warms my heart to see how much he has thrived in the 6 months he's been attending. His language, motor skills,
and social skills have all seen remarkable improvements, which I attribute to the nurturing environment provided by the dedicated staff.
Speaking of the staff, I cannot praise them enough. They are exceptional caregivers who go above and beyond to ensure his well-being and development. Their friendliness, love, and support have played a significant role in his growth and happiness at the nursery.
I wholeheartedly recommend this nursery to any parent looking for a warm, nurturing, and supportive environment for their child. My son and I are grateful for the wonderful experiences and memories he is creating there.
from Chris P (Father of Child) published on 6 June 2024
Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience5.0 out of 5
We have been really happy at 1st Place. Our children have been happy and come home buzzing about their days and all that they've done. The staff are very approachable and engaging and are interested in the children, their welfare, happiness, and development.
The nursery works hard to enrich the days
beyond the time at nursery going to museums, theatres, parks, forest school, cultural visits, and many more.
The children eat well and get good balanced meals and are taught to be independent and do more for themselves.
We've been really happy and have recommended the nursery to friends who've also moved their children there.
Reply from Rachael Burton, Communications and Marketing Manager at 1st Place at The ElephantThank you so much for taking the time to leave us a review. We appreciate the feedback and are over the moon to hear that you and your children are happy at 1st Place. I have passed the feedback on to our Early Education Manager at The Elephant. Best wishes.
from Mary A (Mother of Child) published on 7 December 2023
Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience1.0 out of 5
The majority of the nursery staff that have contact with your child are great. My son has a lovely time with the staff he plays with. Unfortunately, the management and the handling of complaints are incredibly concerning. On that basis, I would not recommend the nursery if you care about your child’s
overall welfare and bodily autonomy and respect.
Reply from Nicola Howard, Director at 1st Place at The ElephantThank you for acknowledging how much fun your son is having at the nursery and how lovely the staff are. We are very happy to hear. It is concerning that you feel management is not up to your expectations, it would be helpful if you would agree to have a face-to-face meeting, I understand you have not wanted to do this when offered before but if you really want to build a stronger relationship with the nursery this would be the best option. 1st Place always takes complaints seriously and this is why it was escalated to the highest level. I understand that you are not happy with the outcome, but I am pleased that you feel safe to continue to use the service there.
from Ursula P (Mother of Child) published on 27 June 2023
Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience5.0 out of 5
The 1st Place Nursery at Chumleigh Gardens has been a wonderful place for my son and us as new parents. The rarity of a well run business with the feel of a family. Wonderful facilities, beautiful setting, engaged, well trained and warm staff. We will truly miss it, but so glad we went through our nursery
journey with 1st Place. I feel my son is ready to join 'big school', much due to the safe hands of 1st Place experts.
A deep thank you from us all.
from Claire T (Mother of Child) published on 1 September 2022
Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience5.0 out of 5
Our son has been at 1st Place Chumleigh Gardens for 3 years. We will be sad to say goodbye when he leaves for school in a couple of weeks. We have valued the responsive and consistent staff who create genuine bonds with the children. We have also valued the community that is created around the nursery.
The children had a beautiful graduation ceremony to mark their ending. We look forward to our second child joining next year.
from Poppy T (Mother of Child) published on 8 May 2022
Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience5.0 out of 5
Our daughter has been at the nursery since she was a baby, and is currently in the pre-school room. We have been overjoyed at the level of care and compassion she has received through each level of the nursery. The food menus are diverse, the rooms are set-out with lots of different areas such as a
reading corner, a building area and an I.C.T area. It's organised in a very thoughtful way, and the rooms are wonderfully light and welcoming. The outside play areas are kept well. There is very little staff turnover as it's a family-run business and we feel like we know the staff well, and they are all wonderfully kind and caring. We're very happy with her progress at the nursery, they clearly take the curriculum very seriously and we see improvements all the time.
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