St Nicholas Day Nursery

Bennetts End House, Eastwick Road, Hemel Hempstead HP2 4JQ
Review Us
10 104 Reviews
  • St Nicholas Day Nursery, Hemel Hempstead
Occupying a converted manor house, St Nicholas Day Nursery is one of the oldest nurseries in the country. The home from home nursery was refurbished in 2020 providing a new, modern feel inside their converted grade 2 listed manor house setting. The nursery offers exceptional care, enriched by unique learning opportunities for your child. One such experience is child-friendly cooking classes, helping to equip children with valuable skills and deeper knowledge of the cooking process.

Inside, there are four rooms carefully designed with age-appropriate resources to aid the learning and development of your little one.

The homely setting is surrounded by extensive and secure grounds offering all age groups a vast area for physical activities. The garden, which was redesigned and refurbished in 2017, includes a mini woodland nature walk and growing area in order to give children the opportunity to further explore and extend their play.

The nursery place strong importance on outdoor learning and the children engage in regular forestry sessions throughout the week in order to explore and discover the outside world. Each age group also has their own garden space to explore.

St Nicholas is central to local schools and over the past 50 years have built strong links so that the children’s transition from nursery to school is as easy and smooth as possible – for both the children and parents!
Show St Nicholas Day Nursery on the Map

Type of Service

  • Day Nursery
  • Open all year
  • Full Day Care
  • Sessional Day Care

Group/Owner

Person in Charge

  • Frankie Bignall (Nursery Manager)

Number of Childcare Staff

  • 17

Total Places for Children

  • 75

Age Range

  • from 0 years 0 months
  • to 5 years 0 months

Funding & Fees

  • Full Day Session £86.60


    We're making childcare more accessible to families:


    * No meal, consumable or enhancement charges
    * Part & fully funded places available

  • A £100 non-refundable registration fee is required to secure a place. Exact days of attendance should be confirmed no later than 6 weeks prior to the child’s start date. Any changes are subject to availability.

Opening Times

  • Monday 07:30-18:30
    Tuesday 07:30-18:30
    Wednesday 07:30-18:30
    Thursday 07:30-18:30
    Friday 07:30-18:30

When Closed

  • Bank Holidays & Christmas

Parking

  • There is a small parking area available for parents and visitors.

St Nicholas Day Nursery Reviews (104)

10

St Nicholas Day Nursery has a Review Score of 10 (9.960) out of 10, based on 27 reviews in the last 2 years.
Over all time St Nicholas Day Nursery has 104 reviews.

Overall Experience
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Date Published
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Reviewer Connection to St Nicholas Day Nursery
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Total of 104, showing 21-40
Review from Charlotte B (Mother of Child) published on 14 June 2024 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
My child started nursery at St Nicholas at 10 months old and I've been very impressed with the service provided. He's comfortable and happy, the staff are lovely and reassuring and truly cares for the children. The food he has is amazing! The activities are creative and educational. Highly recommend.
Reply from Angela Bailey, Head of Customer Experience at St Nicholas Day Nursery
Thank you for taking the time to recommend our nursery. It is lovely to read how your child has settled and is happy in our care.
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Review from L M (Mother of Child) published on 18 April 2024 Submitted via Postal Card • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
My son joined St Nicholas Day Nursery in October 2022 and we have never had any complaints. Although the children are allocated a key worker, all of the staff know each child, meaning my son is confident dealing with anyone. The care he receives is second to none. I absolutely cannot fault it. Every
day there are interesting and engaging activities set up surrounding the time of the year/season/events etc. My son loves the activities and I enjoy hearing how he gets on. The time and care that goes into my son's learning and development really shows and I am so grateful. St Nicholas is an outstanding nursery and I would recommend anyone sending their children here.
Reply from Joanne Wright, Chief Marketing Officer at St Nicholas Day Nursery
That's a wonderful review, thank you so much for sharing.
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Review from Hollie C (Mother of Child) published on 27 March 2024 Submitted via Postal Card • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
A caring, nurturing environment in which I have seen both of my children thrive in. It is children-led, as in the team works to the needs of the children, not another agenda. The outside space is brilliant. The staff are amazing, friendly, fun and outgoing. My children's confidence has grown so much
here in this setting. Thank you!
Reply from Joanne Wright, Chief Marketing Officer at St Nicholas Day Nursery
We love our outdoor space and can't wait for the sun to start shining again!
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Review from Diana Y (Mother of Child) published on 27 March 2024 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
I have a girl who is 2.8 months and she has been going to St Nicholas Nursery at Hemel Hempstead for six months now.
She was really quiet and shy for a long time at the nursery, but the staff in her group were/are very supportive and really helped her to come out of her ‘shell’. She is now playing
happily and joining others with their games.
Another thing that I’m very thankful for is the support the staff had towards the potty training process. It was an issue for a while, but my girl goes independently now to the potty and communicates with the staff about her needs.
Big thank you from a grateful mom!
Reply from Joanne Wright, Chief Marketing Officer at St Nicholas Day Nursery
It's a pleasure to read such a positive journey; thank you for sharing.
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Review from Eme C (Mother of Child) published on 27 March 2024 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
My daughter has been at St Nicholas Nursery for nine months now, she started attending the nursery at just six months. As I’m sure all parents feel when putting their children into someone else’s care, we were sceptical, anxious and not sure what to expect. With me and my husband, both in full-time
work - our daughter goes to the nursery all day five days a week. We soon realised how lovely the staff were, attentive to our daughter and giving us robust handovers at the end of each day. The professional relationship has built since then, and now they’re like an extended family to our little one as well as us. Our daughter is doing things we never could have imagined at this age, the activities are enhancing her imagination, well-being and curiosity. I trust the staff and respect how hard they work. I cannot remember this nursery enough. Thank you for all you are doing for our little girl.
Reply from Joanne Wright, Chief Marketing Officer at St Nicholas Day Nursery
Wow, that is an amazing review. We'll be sure to share it with the team.
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Review from C A (Mother of Child) published on 14 March 2024 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
My daughter had a wonderful experience at St Nicholas. The staff are wonderful and very caring. I felt completely reassured that my daughter was in good hands and was being well looked after. I am thrilled to see how much more confident she has become since starting nursery. My daughter loved all the
activities the staff organised and I also enjoyed seeing pictures and updates on the app. I highly recommend this nursery.
Reply from Joanne Wright, Chief Marketing Officer at St Nicholas Day Nursery
Thank you, that's really important for the team to hear. We'll be sure to pass this on to them.
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Review from Gracie O (Mother of Child) published on 12 March 2024 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
My daughter absolutely loves her nursery and all of the staff. They have really welcomed her, and she has settled in well. She runs in most days not bothered about leaving me! The nursery is very good at updating me with my daughters day to day activities and any new learning she does! Also, the staff
are very friendly but professional and respectful! My daughter’s speech has come on leaps and bounds since starting nursery and comes home showing me new things she has learnt! I recommend the nursery for every opportunity given, and thank them all for their dedication and hard work!
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Review from Demi W (Mother of Child) published on 13 July 2023 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
My daughter has been attending this nursery for nearly two years, and I cannot recommend it enough.
My daughter loves going to the nursery to see her friends and always says she’s excited or ‘let’s go nursery now mum’. She comes home with lovely pictures and things she has made; she’s come on so well
since attending - the best decision I made.
Reply from Beth Lewendon, Marketing Coordinator at St Nicholas Day Nursery
Thank you for taking the time to write this review; we really appreciate it!
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Review from Jade B (Mother of Child) published on 12 July 2023 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
My son loves going to nursery! On first impressions, the staff are professional, welcoming and knowledgeable. They answered all of my questions confidently and proudly showed me the ground - which by the way, is amazing. The garden really is the best I've seen at a nursery in a long time (we visited
three others in the area with no or little garden) this is particularly important to us as we live in a flat. I personally am in favour of the staff age range too - there's a real mix, and the overall vibe from the team is really lovely, and all of the children are happy and busy taking part in activities or just exploring the beautiful garden. I couldn't recommend St Nicholas enough - from the day dot, the support from the management team has been second to none (I was a very nervous parent).
Reply from Beth Lewendon, Marketing Coordinator at St Nicholas Day Nursery
Thank you so much for your review; we are delighted to hear your feedback!
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Review from K K (Mother of Child) published on 12 July 2023 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 4.0 out of 5
My daughter is always happy to go to the nursery, she seems to have a great time, and she's in a good mood when we pick her up. The comments from the staff on her personality and character make me feel that they are close to her and know her well. Her needs are met on a daily basis, and the staff are
always kind and happy to support her. They cooperate well with our parents and welcome our input.
The management team is also very helpful and responsive. One of our concerns around safeguarding was answered imminently and adequately, and measures were put in place to make us feel more comfortable.
The outdoor area is simply amazing - my daughter loves being in the garden, the same as my son when he was attending in the past (he's now in primary school). Overall, I am very happy with the nursery.
Reply from Beth Lewendon, Marketing Coordinator at St Nicholas Day Nursery
Thank you so much for your review; we really appreciate it!
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Review from C R (Mother of Child) published on 12 July 2023 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
There is nothing I can fault. My daughter loves her time at nursery. She is growing, learning and developing into such a wonderful child, and I'm certain that a big part of that is down to the amazing staff and facilities at St Nicholas.
Reply from Beth Lewendon, Marketing Coordinator at St Nicholas Day Nursery
Thank you for your wonderful feedback! We're thrilled to hear that your daughter loves her time at the nursery and that she is growing, learning, and developing into a wonderful child - we are…read more
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Review from D W (Mother of Child) published on 12 July 2023 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
Our twins have attended this setting for two years and are now ready for school. This place is a germ well hidden in Hemel Hempstead. The outdoor space is amazing, and not something I’ve seen any other nursery has! The staff are beyond amazing, always going above and beyond to make sure your little
one is happy and content. I am so grateful to the staff there. My twins have learned so much there; they can’t wait to go to nursery and don’t want to leave when I come to pick them up.
Reply from Beth Lewendon, Marketing Coordinator at St Nicholas Day Nursery
Thank you for your wonderful review! We're thrilled to have had the opportunity to care for your twins over the past two years.
We take pride in providing a nurturing environment where children can…read more
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Review from Natasha W (Mother of Child) published on 12 July 2023 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
I have nothing but praise for St Nicholas Day Nursery. The staff are kind and caring. As parents, we have good communication with the team. My son enjoys being there, and it feels like all the staff know all the children, not just the key worker. It has been a pleasure to see how much my son has developed
since being there. The curriculum spans a wide range of areas that are taught through play in an age-appropriate manner. I would happily recommend the nursery to others, and my younger child is due to start next month.
Reply from Beth Lewendon, Marketing Coordinator at St Nicholas Day Nursery
Thank you for your wonderful feedback about St Nicholas Day Nursery! We're delighted to hear that you have nothing but praise for our nursery. Our kind and caring staff take pride in creating a…read more
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Review from Ana C (Mother of Child) published on 12 July 2023 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
My experience with this nursery has been outstanding! I would highly recommend any parents out there looking for a warm and nurturing environment for their child to consider this nursery. Thank you to all the staff who have made my child’s learning experience so enjoyable!
Reply from Beth Lewendon, Marketing Coordinator at St Nicholas Day Nursery
Thank you for your review! We're thrilled to hear that your experience with our nursery has been outstanding. We take great pride in providing a warm and nurturing environment for all children in our…read more
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Review from Nicola W (Mother of Child) published on 15 November 2022 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
I was impressed by how well the staff knew my child and her little characteristics. It is reassuring for me as a parent that the staff can read my child's needs and wants.
My daughter always comes home happy, and that is all I can ask for.
Reply from Beth Lewendon, Marketing Coordinator at St Nicholas Day Nursery
Thank you for your review; we really appreciate it!
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Review from I C (Father of Child) published on 15 November 2022 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
My daughter loves going to nursery at St Nicholas! She is now in preschool and has been attending since she was a baby in Twinkle Stars, and has loved her time spent in every age group. We never have a struggle getting to nursery because she is always so excited to go. She has a great relationship with
all the staff and often talks about them and what they have taught her when I collect her. She always has lots to say about her day, so I know she has been busy and enjoying herself all day. The menu is varied, and although she is a little fussy, she always eats plenty throughout the day. The staff really care for the children, and I feel confident leaving her in their care, knowing that she will be happy and safe. I couldn't pick a better nursery for her, and I am so pleased with St Nicholas. The outside space is beautiful, and the team use it so well with lots of activities and the fabulous woodland area! I am so grateful for the love and care they have given her and how much she has learnt.
Reply from Beth Lewendon, Marketing Coordinator at St Nicholas Day Nursery
Hi, and thank you for such a kind review about our St Nicholas Nursery! We really appreciate it.
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Review from T S (Mother of Child) published on 15 November 2022 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
I cannot recommend St Nicholas enough. Our little boy has been there for nearly two years now and has only ever received the highest quality of care. He has always loved going to nursery and talks positively about his days and the fun he has there. The staff are always professional and have been very
supportive in all areas. The ladies are approachable and friendly and keep us up to date with his achievements and further goals. Looking forward to all the fun he has to come in the next two years there!
Reply from Beth Lewendon, Marketing Coordinator at St Nicholas Day Nursery
Thank you for such a kind review; we really appreciate it!
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Review from R A (Mother of Child) published on 26 July 2022 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
My son has really enjoyed his time at the nursery; he's really happy and tells us all about his day. The staff are fantastic - they are brilliant. Management has been good and really helpful. I really like the fact the nursery has a big open space garden, so the children are not confined to a small
space. We’ve had a lovely experience.
Reply from Beth Lewendon, Marketing Coordinator at St Nicholas Day Nursery
Thank you for your review; we really appreciate it!
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Review from Luke F (Father of Child) published on 26 July 2022 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
Our daughter loves the nursery and always tells us about all the fun she has had during her days there! The staff are all very friendly and always seem great with the kids whenever we have seen them interacting. The building looks like it could use some TLC from the outside (I think it's listed though,
and Covid means we have never been inside), but the grounds are superb, and there is so much outdoor space for the little ones.
Management is very good and responsive to any queries! Highly recommed to anyone looking for great childcare at a location with such stunning outdoor space.
Reply from Beth Lewendon, Marketing Coordinator at St Nicholas Day Nursery
Thank you for your review; we really appreciate it!
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Review from S G (Father of Child) published on 20 April 2022 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 3.0 out of 5
The staff are great and so is the building and garden area. What has annoyed me in recent months is the change of policy to not allow packed lunches and you have to pay for their food. They claim this is for health reasons but this is clearly a money grab by the new bigger company that bought the nursery
in 2021. Other nurseries and schools can handle allergies but not this one?
Reply from Beth Lewendon, Marketing Coordinator at St Nicholas Day Nursery
Thank you for your feedback. One of the main reasons that we removed packed lunches from the settings was to allow greater control of the foods that enter the nurseries. We do have a number of…read more
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Current Review Score: 10.0 (9.960)

Overview of Review Score

The Review Score of 10 (9.960) out of 10 for St Nicholas Day Nursery is based on a) the Average Rating and b) the number of positive Reviews.

  1. The Average Rating is 5.0 out of 5 from 27 Reviews in the last 24 months.
  2. The score for the number of positive Reviews is 5.0 out of 5 from 27 positive Reviews in the last 24 months.

Detailed Breakdown of Review Score

The maximum Review Score for a Day Nursery is 10, which is made up from the Average Rating of Reviews (maximum of 5 points) and the Number of Reviews (maximum of 5 points) in the last 24 months:

  1. 5 Points are available for the Average Rating from all Reviews in the last 24 months. The Average Rating of 4.960 for St Nicholas Day Nursery is calculated as follows: ( (312 Excellents x 5) + (11 Goods x 4) + (1 Satisfactorys x 3) ) ÷ 324 Ratings = 4.96
  2. 5 Points are available for the number of Positive Reviews in the last 24 months. A Positive Review is defined as any Review with an 'Overall Experience' of '4' or '5' (out of a max rating '5'). The 5 Points relating to the number of positive Reviews for St Nicholas Day Nursery is based on 27 positive Reviews in the last 24 months and is calculated as per below:

    The 5 points available are broken down as follows:

    1. 4 points are available for the first 10 Positive Reviews in the last 24 months; 3 points for the first Positive Review, and then 0.125 Points for each of the next four Positive Reviews and then 0.1 Points for the next five Positive Reviews. (1st = 3.000, 2nd = 0.125, 3rd = 0.125, 4th = 0.125, 5th = 0.125, 6th = 0.100, 7th = 0.100, 8th = 0.100, 9th = 0.100, 10th = 0.100) 3 + 0.125 + 0.125 + 0.125 + 0.125 + 0.1 + 0.1 + 0.1 + 0.1 + 0.1 = 4
    2. 1 point is available for the number of Positive Reviews reaching 20% of the number of registered child places in the last 24 months. If this number is partially reached, then that proportion of 1 point is given. eg a Day Nursery registered for a maximum of 50 child places has to reach 10 Positive Reviews to receive 1 point, if it has 7 reviews it will receive 0.7 points. 20% of the 75 number of registered child places is 15, which has been reached with 27 Positive reviews. Points = 1
  3. When a Review is submitted by someone who has previously submitted a Review, only the latest Review will count towards the Review Score.
  4. If a Day Nursery does not have a review in the last 24 months, then it will not have a Review Score.

Child Vacancies

Please contact us for latest vacancies.

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Awards / Recognitions (8)

Meet the Team (1)

Frankie

Frankie

Job Title: Nursery Manager Joined: 2007

Qualifications: NVQ3, DSL, Paediatric First Aid, Food Hygiene

Information on this page is displayed without responsibility for its accuracy on the part of daynurseries.co.uk. Please contact St Nicholas Day Nursery to verify any information. View our terms and conditions. St Nicholas Day Nursery has an Enhanced Service - more info.