Windmill Nursery School (Smart Start)

22-23 Overcliffe, Gravesend DA11 0EH
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9.8 52 Reviews
  • Windmill Nursery School (Smart Start), Gravesend
Windmill Nursery School (previously Smart Start Nursery School) is located inside two Victorian townhouses in Gravesend, Kent. Their team of educators are experienced and passionate about providing premium education and care for children aged 6 weeks to 5 years old.

At Windmill you’ll find a home-from-home environment with tailored spaces to suit children at every age of their time at the nursery. Babies enjoy sensory discovery and gentle play, with free access to resources and the large garden area. Toddlers also enjoy time outdoors as well as caring for the nursery budgies, Jelly and Olaf. Preschool children focus on developing an understanding of phonics, numbers and their social skills.

The nursery’s learning-approach is tailored to allow children to develop at their own pace in their own time, combining the Early Years Foundation Stage framework with their own learning programmes.

At mealtimes, children enjoy freshly prepared food by the onsite chef using local and seasonal produce where possible. Older children help with food preparation in the kitchen.

Windmill prides itself on developing close relationships with parents, working with them to create a partnership that enhances children’s learning and development.
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Type of Service

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

Group/Owner

Person in Charge

  • Jessica Skinner (Nursery Manager)

Number of Childcare Staff

  • 25

Total Places for Children

  • 84

Age Range

  • from 0 years 2 months
  • to 5 years 0 months

Funding & Fees

  • Full day (7:30 am to 6:30 pm) from £67.50

  • We want to make life simple, so our fees include infant formula, milk, freshly prepared snacks, and meals. We also provide nappies, wipes, and sun cream, or parents can bring their own if they prefer.

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

Windmill Nursery School (Smart Start) Reviews (52)

9.8

Windmill Nursery School (Smart Start) has a Review Score of 9.8 (9.813) out of 10, based on 27 reviews in the last 2 years.
Over all time Windmill Nursery School (Smart Start) has 52 reviews.

Overall Experience
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Reviewer Connection to Windmill Nursery School (Smart Start)
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Total of 52, showing 1-20
Review from Hayley H (Mother of Child) published on 18 November 2025 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
Excellent nursery, great staff
I moved my little boy to this nursery from another nursery and wish I had done it sooner!
He has only been here for a month and has already settled so well.
All of the staff are so lovely and friendly, the garden space is great and the rooms feel so warming and homely.
The activities are fun and stimulating, the staff are always thinking of new, creative ideas and activities for the children.
I want to say a big thank you to all of the staff for making my little boy feel so safe and settled in daffodils in such a short time. Ellie, Gabby and Emma have been amazing in making this transition so smooth for both my son and I.
I am extremely happy with all of the comfort, support and encouragement that has been shown.
I would highly recommend this nursery!
Reply from Finlay Seoudy, Regional Marketing Executive at Windmill Nursery School (Smart Start)
Thank you so much for your lovely review. Were really pleased to hear how well your little boy has settled in and that the move has been such a positive experience. Its wonderful to know you feel…read more
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Review from Leah G (Mother of Child) published on 7 October 2025 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
My daughter has been attending Windmill since start of 2025. 9 months in what an incredible journey it has been for her. She has reached so many milestones that seemed unlikely to happen. The positivity the staff have is amazing. In guidance and support for my daughter and working with us the parents.
I wished I had found Windmill Nursery sooner. All staff are welcoming and caring even for older siblings. We love the events the nursery provides giving that family home from home setting. Biggest praise to Ellie and Gabby in daffodils room!
Who have supported our daughter in her recent transition to pre school room. She has fully found her sparkle. An is shining bright - we have the best exciting journey ahead. Watching our daughters development increase - we wouldn't be here without Windmill Nursery encouragement and support.
Reply from Finlay Seoudy, Regional Marketing Executive at Windmill Nursery School (Smart Start)
Thank you so much for your lovely feedback. Were delighted to hear how well your daughter has settled at Windmill and how much progress shes made. Its wonderful to know our teams support and…read more
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Review from Amardeep L (Mother of Child) published on 19 September 2025 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
As a parent who has had one child progress from the baby room through to graduating on to school, and another who started in the baby room and is now moving into pre-pre school, I can honestly say this nursery has been wonderful throughout. It's incredible to see the positive changes and dedication
the staff have shown over the years. I am truly grateful for all they do and for the amazing growth I have seen in my children's development.
Reply from Finlay Seoudy, Regional Marketing Executive at Windmill Nursery School (Smart Start)
Thank you so much for your feedback. The team at Windmill will be delighted to know the positive impact they've had on your children's journey. It's wonderful to hear about their growth and…read more
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Review from Angeline K (Mother of Child) published on 18 September 2025 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 2.0 out of 5
It is so disappointing that this nursery has started to go down hill. Internal changes take place that the parents are not informed of. Information that I have requested I still haven't received a response. We now get charged for meals and essential (nappies, wipes, creams) but we don't get a copy of
the menu or what the daily charge is. If my under 2 year old has to say she is hungry to get a snack that I am paying for. She has leaked more in the last 3 months than ever before, I'm not sure how this happens. Her coat has been left out in the rain so nothing to wear on the way home. Not being given milk in her bottle but someone else bottle. Has to ask for a bib to be worn at meal time as her clothes get stained. Not much educational tasks takes place such a reading and writing. Just no sense of care, trust or passion for the children.
Reply from Finlay Seoudy, Regional Marketing Executive at Windmill Nursery School (Smart Start)
Thank you for taking the time to share your feedback. Please do reach out to us directly so we can discuss your concerns in more detail and work together to make improvements.
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Review from Sharon W (Grandmother of Child) published on 6 May 2025 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
I and my daughter looked at several nurseries for my grandson, this nursery was far better than the ones we visited. We found other nurseries were over crowded and the staff were not child centred. The staff here always updates us on my grandson's progress. I highly recommend this nursery.
Reply from Jessica Griffin, Marketing Executive at Windmill Nursery School (Smart Start)
Thank you so much for your kind words and recommendation. We're so pleased to hear you felt confident choosing us, and it's a privilege to be part of your grandson's early years. We look forward to…read more
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Review from Charlotte D (Mother of Child) published on 26 March 2025 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
My daughter has been attending Windmills since the start of the year, when she started we wasn't mobile nor verbal. In the past three months the nursery staff have supported us in giving our girl the confidence to crawl and be vocal. We've seen such an incredibly positive impact on our child's development
since being in the care of the fabulous staff in the baby room and we couldn't be happier with how accommodating the staff have been with our needs around extra sessions etc, the staff have also taken into consideration the wants and needs of my daughter, she's not one who wants to be held or touched and the ladies have really taken on board how to work around that, an really do understand what works best for us all, I'll be lost if it wasn't for the staff and windmills they truly are pure Angels and always smiling. THANK YOU LADIES
Reply from Jessica Griffin, Marketing Executive at Windmill Nursery School (Smart Start)
Thank you for your feedback! It's wonderful to hear how much progress your daughter has made in such a short time. We're so pleased that our team has been able to support her development while…read more
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Review from R W (Father of Child) published on 25 March 2025 Submitted via Postal Card • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
Our daughter gets the best care and experience from all the staff at Windmill Nursery. We're happy to send our child there every day with no concerns. Thank you.
Reply from Jessica Griffin, Marketing Executive at Windmill Nursery School (Smart Start)
Thank you for your kind words! We're so pleased to hear that you feel confident sending your daughter to Windmill Nursery each day. Our team truly appreciates your support, and we are proud to be part…read more
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Review from Simone T (Mother of Child) published on 21 March 2025 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
A fantastic child led nursery, brilliant staff and a very welcomong home like feel for the children. My daughter never ate her food but has recently been supported and encouraged to try new foods by the amazing staff! The staff try their best to make you feel at ease leaving your child away from home.
I couldn't recommend enough, this nursery is amazing!
Reply from Jessica Griffin, Marketing Executive at Windmill Nursery School (Smart Start)
Thank you very much for your kind feedback! We are delighted to learn about your daughter's progress, particularly in her willingness to try new foods-it's such an important achievement! It truly…read more
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Review from C F (Father of Child) published on 1 November 2024 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
My daughter is currently in the pre-school class at Windmill Nursery. We have been particularly impressed with her teachers, who go above and beyond. The teachers recently explained how they have introduced Montessori methods of teaching into the classroom. I believe this style of teaching has benefitted
our daughter's development. As a result she enjoys the independence of making her own breakfast and getting ready for the day at home. There are structured activities such as learning Makaton and Yoga which our daughter has enjoyed and shows us at home. Our daughter regularly tells us how much she loves nursery and her friends. I believe the nursery/teachers have created a lovely learning environment as well as preparing her for primary school next year.
Reply from Windmill Nursery School, Central support at Windmill Nursery School (Smart Start)
Thank you for your kind words! We're delighted to hear how much your daughter is thriving with us and enjoying her time with friends and new activities. It's wonderful to know the Montessori approach…read more
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Review from Aisosa E (Mother of Child) published on 25 June 2024 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
I'm totally overwhelmed. I really appreciate Smart Start for the impact they made in my son's life. Thank you so much. We really appreciate it. Smart Start I give you 100/100. Thank you guys for the job well done.
Reply from Storal, Central Support at Windmill Nursery School (Smart Start)
Thank you for taking the time to leave a review and provide feedback. We're so happy to hear you appreciate our team and that your son has had a positive impact by attending Windmill Nursery School…read more
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Review from Dayo O (Father of Child) published on 5 June 2024 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
I have seen the tremendous leap of improvement my child has made since she's been in the nursery.
Impressed by a mile. Her social skills and vocabulary has come on leaps and bounds.
I will have no hesitation recommending to family and friends.
Reply from Storal, Central Support at Windmill Nursery School (Smart Start)
Thank you for taking the time to leave a review and provide feedback. It's great to hear that your child has benefited from the care and education given at Windmill (previously Smart Start) and thank…read more
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Review from Roselyn U (Mother of Child) published on 5 June 2024 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 4.0 out of 5
My daughter is at this nursery, and she's thriving. I'm impressed with the comprehensively broad curriculum as well as the enthusiasm of the staff. They encourage independence in the children and give them the tools to learn.
My only gripe when I first started was with one of the staff who appeared
uninspired, but that was dealt with very very quickly.
Reply from Storal, Central Support at Windmill Nursery School (Smart Start)
Thank you for taking the time to leave a review and provide feedback. It's great to hear that you're impressed with the Storal Curriculum and thank you for recognising that we take your concerns…read more
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Review from Antony S (Stepfather of Child) published on 14 May 2024 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
Staff have been so accommodating and friendly to my family and helping my child settle into the nursery. We can't thank them enough.
My child is very fussy with food and the staff have helped us to overcome this and cater our needs.
Reply from Storal, Central support at Windmill Nursery School (Smart Start)
Thank you for your kind words! We're glad to hear that our staff has been accommodating and friendly, helping your child settle in. It's wonderful to know they've also supported you with your child's…read more
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Review from Alex A (Father of Child) published on 25 April 2024 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
We are so grateful to the staff at Smart Start for everything they've done for us and our daughter. She's come on so much in the 18 months she's been there and we honestly couldn't have found anywhere more suited to both her needs as a toddler and ours as parents. We have a great relationship with the
staff who are always thorough in their handovers, supportive of key milestones, will take our thoughts and feedback on board while swiftly putting them into practice and clearly love their job. Our daughter feels so at home at Smart Start and we can't wait for our secondborn to start later this year. Communication with management is better than it's ever been and we're proud of the role all of the room leaders are playing in our daughter's development.
Reply from Storal, Central Support at Windmill Nursery School (Smart Start)
Thank you so much for your heartfelt review! We're thrilled to hear that you feel our team is meeting both her needs and yours as parents. It's wonderful to know that our staff's dedication,…read more
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Review from K D (Godmother of Child) published on 12 April 2024 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
I am very happy with the care provided by the Nursery to my godson. I can’t think of anything bad to say but I know if I did I could tell the nursery and they will take it into consideration and support. My godson has come on leaps and bounds and he enjoys his time at the nursery. I would recommend
it to a friend.
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Review from D M (Father of Child) published on 27 March 2024 Submitted via Postal Card • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
Smart Start is a wonderful nursery.
My son is flourishing in his speech development, motor skills and socialising.
The staff are warm and welcoming and clearly care deeply about the children they look after.
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Review from H B (Mother of Child) published on 26 March 2024 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
Both of my daughters have attended this nursery over the course of approximately three years. I have had so many supportive and helpful interactions with staff and management. Any concerns I’ve had have been quickly dealt with, and I’ve always felt reassured. I can honestly say the staff have gone above
and beyond to support me and my family, especially one lady in pre-school as well as the deputy manager and manager.
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Review from A S (Uncle of Child) published on 25 March 2024 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
Since starting at the nursery, the progress I have seen in my nephew, both educationally and emotionally, has been fantastic! He is always eager to tell me about his day and what he has learnt, which is so great to hear. There are lots of events that are extended out to family members which means we
get to join in on those special occasions.
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Review from Zoe P (Mother of Child) published on 22 March 2024 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
My son has been attending Smart Start Nursery School for the past two years. He has come along leaps and bounds. The girls have been absolutely amazing towards my son, caring, supportive, encouraging, understanding and very informative when he is there with daily updates. He adores the ladies in his
class. Would highly recommend.
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Review from Cosima R (Mother of Child) published on 18 March 2024 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
Highly recommend the nursery, they have great facilities, a lovely garden, really make an effort with activities with the children and the system of uploading photos of what my daughter has been up to is reassuring when I’m away. The nursery is also open to suggestions and genuinely wants a positive
parent partnership.
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Current Review Score: 9.8 (9.813)

Overview of Review Score

The Review Score of 9.8 (9.813) out of 10 for Windmill Nursery School (Smart Start) is based on a) the Average Rating and b) the number of positive Reviews.

  1. The Average Rating is 4.8 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 26 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 4.813 for Windmill Nursery School (Smart Start) is calculated as follows: ( (281 Excellents x 5) + (26 Goods x 4) + (6 Satisfactorys x 3) + (6 Poors x 2) + (1 Very Poors x 1) ) ÷ 320 Ratings = 4.813
  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 Windmill Nursery School (Smart Start) is based on 26 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 84 number of registered child places is 16.8, which has been reached with 26 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 (4)

Meet the Team (1)

Jessica

Jessica

Job Title: Nursery Manager Joined: 2024

Hello and welcome to Windmill Nursery School in Gravesend.
Every day at Windmill we encourage children to be inquisitive and creative in our stimulating learning environment. In doing so, they soon develop a real love of learning and a curious mind.


Our experienced team come with a wealth of early years learning insight. We know that every child is different with their own story to tell, so we make sure that your child learns in a way and at a pace that’s right for them.


Our happy nursery allows children to imagine, wonder and learn, both indoors and outside, whether it’s our creative play and sensory rooms or our large garden that’s ready for adventures. We work collaboratively with parents, a partnership that truly enhances children's learning and development.


We’d love you to come and visit us and look forward to meeting you and your family.

Frequently Asked Questions about Windmill Nursery School (Smart Start)

What is the Age Range of Children that Windmill Nursery School (Smart Start) accepts?

Windmill Nursery School (Smart Start) accepts Children aged from 0 years 2 months to 5 years 0 months.

What Days & Hours is Windmill Nursery School (Smart Start) Open?

Windmill Nursery School (Smart Start) is open: 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.

How many Children does Windmill Nursery School (Smart Start) have capacity for?

Windmill Nursery School (Smart Start) has capacity for a total of 84 Children.

How far is Windmill Nursery School (Smart Start) to the centre of Gravesend?

0.6 mile(s) as the crow flies, distance by road may be significantly further.

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