Happy Days Nursery & Preschool - Derriford

Unit 3a, Derriford Business Park, Derriford, Plymouth PL6 5QZ
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9.9 198 Reviews
  • Happy Days Nursery & Preschool - Derriford, Plymouth
Happy Days at Derriford has both indoor and outdoor spaces for children to play and grow during their time at nursery.

Staff support children to embrace outdoor play and have as many new experiences as they can in a safe and secure environment.

The nursery provides equipment and furniture that supports children’s physical development over muscle control and co-ordination.

Two nursery chefs provide fresh meals for children every day, but children can also be involved in learning about food preparation and taught how to be independent at meal times.
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Type of Service

  • Day Nursery
  • Open all year
  • Full Day Care

Group/Owner

Person in Charge

  • Zara Austin (Nursery Manager)

Number of Childcare Staff

  • 50

Total Places for Children

  • 146

Age Range

  • from 0 years 3 months
  • to 5 years 0 months

Funding & Fees

  • We know childcare is such an important part of family life, and we’re here to make it as simple, clear, and affordable as possible. There are numerous government schemes available to help with the cost, and we’ll guide you through your options so you can find what works best for your family. Why not get in touch today for a personalised quote? You can head to our website and take a look at our Affordable Childcare page to see the different types of support you might be entitled to.


    Did you know Happy Days offers government funded childcare? Depending on your child’s age and your circumstances, you could receive up to 570 or even 1,140 hours of funded care each year — giving you extra support when you need it most.


    We like to keep things open and straightforward when it comes to fees, so there are no surprises. Click the button below to see our weekly, daily, and session rates for the exceptional care we’re proud to provide. And if you’d like to talk through your options, your Nursery Manager will be more than happy to help, we’re always just a friendly chat away.

  • For fee information, contact the Nursery directly.

Opening Times

  • Monday 07:00-19:00
    Tuesday 07:00-19:00
    Wednesday 07:00-19:00
    Thursday 07:00-19:00
    Friday 07:00-19:00

When Closed

  • Bank Holidays & 1 week at Christmas

Happy Days Nursery & Preschool - Derriford Reviews (198)

9.9

Happy Days Nursery & Preschool - Derriford has a Review Score of 9.9 (9.888) out of 10, based on 38 reviews in the last 2 years.
Over all time Happy Days Nursery & Preschool - Derriford has 198 reviews.

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Reviewer Connection to Happy Days Nursery & Preschool - Derriford
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Review from A T (Father of Child) published on 11 February 2025 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
My son has been attending Happy Days Nursery & Preschool since he was about 9 months old and is now going to be 4 years old. He has always enjoyed his time at nursery and is always excited to go and see all his friends and all the staff that look after him. Lots of the staff most importantly his key
person have always gave him so much of their care, time and attention and always keep us up to date on his day and how he's been whilst at nursery.
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Review from Alex W (Mother of Child) published on 11 February 2025 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
So much love for Happy Days Nursery & Preschool! Our daughter, who is now 4, joined Happy Days 2 years ago (after bad experiences at another nursery) and the whole team were so welcoming, thorough, kind and caring from the moment we started our settle sessions. Every member of staff we have spoken to
have been happy, joyful, kind, caring and so supportive. Our son, who is now nearly 2, started at around 12 months old. He found being apart from me very challenging at first and it was a really difficult time as I had no choice but to return to work after maternity leave. I had much needed hugs, tear wiping and support from various members of staff and they all bent over backwards to help settle my son into the new routine. I thought he'd never cope with nursery, but now, a year on he walks in smiling and happy (and usually makes a beeline for breakfast!). Our children are happy and they both lean in for cuddles and comfort from the staff, which to me, is the biggest telling factor for how good Happy Days is.
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Review from Lidia M (Mother of Child) published on 10 February 2025 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
The nursery has been supporting my son, who has autism, and they go above and beyond on their support. He started in April 2024 and the improvements are visible day by day. He enjoys going to the nursery.
Reply from Rebekah Fice-Thomson, Nursery Support Team at Happy Days Nursery & Preschool - Derriford
Thank you so much for your kind words! We're delighted to hear that your son is enjoying nursery and making such wonderful progress. Supporting each child's unique needs is at the heart of what we do,…read more
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Review from Kerryann R (Mother of Child) published on 10 February 2025 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
I am beyond happy with the choice I made to send my child to Happy Days. From the first visit and look around, I just knew it was the nursery for us! My child is kept safe, cared for and supported. Over the years the care and support has extended to me too, to which I am very grateful for. Nothing is
too much trouble- they are amazing at reassuring my parental anxieties. My child absolutely loves going to nursery and has built secure relationships with staff.
Reply from Rebekah Fice-Thomson, Nursery Support Team at Happy Days Nursery & Preschool - Derriford
Thank you for your wonderful feedback! It's amazing to hear that you felt at home with us from the start and that both you and your child feel supported. We're so grateful for your trust and the team…read more
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Review from R M (Mother of Child) published on 10 February 2025 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
I have been really pleased with care given to my daughter and the support given to us as a family when getting used to the world of nurseries. My daughter loves being at nursery, she gets excited about going into the car park which I have no doubt is down to the teams hard work in making her feel safe,
nurtured and fun. My daughter has been learning loads and it really is lovely to see her flourishing (which I have no doubt the nursery team contribute to).
I feel my daughter is very cared for and safe, even when she's slightly under the weather I know the team are making her feel safe and secure so thank you for that!
Reply from Rebekah Fice-Thomson, Marketing Manager at Happy Days Nursery & Preschool - Derriford
Thank you for your lovely feedback! It's wonderful to hear how much your daughter enjoys nursery and that our team has helped her feel safe, nurtured, and excited to learn. We're so grateful for your…read more
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Review from Paula D (Mother of Child) published on 10 February 2025 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
Due to me working, Happy Days is really convenient as it's close by. My Daughter enjoys her days there, the staff are so friendly, kind, reliable, and great teachers. I do recommend Happy Days to other friends and family.
Reply from Rebekah Fice-Thomson, Nursery Support Team at Happy Days Nursery & Preschool - Derriford
Thank you so much for your kind words! We're delighted to hear that Happy Days is a convenient and enjoyable place for your daughter. It's wonderful to know that our team's kindness, reliability, and…read more
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Review from Amy T (Mother of Child) published on 7 February 2025 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
Happy Days Derriford is a fantastic nursery. Both of my children are really happy in nursery / pre school and that is down to the staff who are friendly, warm, attentive and professional. The team are very approachable and the environment is welcoming to children and parents. Thank you for all that
you do.
Reply from Rebekah Fice-Thomson, Marketing Manager at Happy Days Nursery & Preschool - Derriford
Thank you for your fantastic review! It's wonderful to hear that both of your children are so happy at Happy Days Derriford. Our team works hard to create a warm, welcoming, and supportive…read more
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Review from Katie B (Mother of Child) published on 18 December 2024 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 4.0 out of 5
The girls really take time to know my daughter. She has grown in confidence since starting in July 2024. She's happy every morning when I drop her off. The app is updated every day so I know what she has gotten up to for the day.
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Review from K D (Mother of Child) published on 18 December 2024 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
We love Happy Days! The staff are fantastic, they know every child by name and make us parents feel listened to! My little boy goes in happy every day to spend a session there and is always happy and clean when I pick him up. The team are faultless! The updates via the app throughout the day also help
keep the worry away.
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Review from Sam C (Father of Child) published on 15 November 2024 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
My son has been at this nursery for almost a year and I am more than impressed with this facility.
I feel at ease dropping my child off and love picking him up seeing him happy.
This nursery is so flexible when it comes to settling your child, they did whatever it took to settle my child and reassure
me.
He looks forward to seeing his key person when he comes into the nursery and has learnt so much since being there. Myself and my partner can go to work feeling at ease that our child is safe and happy.
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Review from Stacey C (Mother of Child) published on 6 November 2024 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
My daughter has now officially started nursery at Happy Days two mornings a week and Is doing amazingly. When I picked her up today she ran over to me excitedly to show me her painting she had done. As a parent these moments are everything.
It is full credit to you how brilliantly my daughter is doing.
The settling in sessions were amazing and I feel so lucky we had so many before her official start date. You even tailored the settling in sessions to meet my daughter's needs/naps and preferences. This meant when her first official day came she was comfortable and confident to spend the day with staff she already knew and trusted. One occasion I remember picking her up and seeing her happily sat at the table with the other children. I was completely ecstatic how relaxed she looked and two of your staff members joined in my excitement at how well she was doing. Your staff genuinely care about the children in their care and this is so important to me. You are all the best. Thank you!
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Review from A D (Father of Child) published on 30 July 2024 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
Amazing nursery as a 1st time parent choosing the right nursery for your child can come as quite a daunting task. The nursery helped with all nerves and the settling-in process helped both me and my partner feel reassured that our son will be happy and safe at the nursery.
When I drop off and see
the activities planned for the day it makes me want to stay and have fun!
The app is such a good addition that has really helped us feel as if we are at the nursery throughout our son's day! All the staff are so friendly and professional and all know my child by name.
Wouldn't want to leave my child anywhere else.
Thank you Happy Days for looking after my little man.
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Review from Hayley H (Mother of Child) published on 17 July 2024 Submitted via Postal Card • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
My 15-month-old has come on leaps and bounds since joining three months ago. Every time I drop her off, she happily walks away by herself and is always happy when I pick her up. All the staff, including the reception staff, have been brilliant. They always have my child's best interests, making sure
her needs are met and also keeping her entertained with songs and activities in the garden. No matter how worried you are, I would highly recommend this nursery.
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Review from Victoria B (Mother of Child) published on 15 July 2024 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
We have had all our children go to Happy Days Derriford and have been pleased with the care given to our children. The staff are friendly and put the children's needs first. The rooms and outdoor space is inviting and promote learning through play.
We have never had an issue but know if we did, we
would be listened to and it would be resolved.
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Review from R E (Mother of Child) published on 31 May 2024 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
My two sons attend Happy Days. My 14-month-old started in January. I really like that he had 8 settle sessions. The staff regularly update the parent app. The staff are so kind and friendly and they know all the children’s name. My 4-year-old is coming to the end of his nursery journey and the progress
he’s made from when he started is amazing. He’s trying new foods and is becoming very independent. He loves the outside space and forest. I can’t recommend Happy Days enough.
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Review from J W (Mother of Child) published on 18 April 2024 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
Happy Days Nursery are absolutely incredible and outstanding. I have a nonverbal ASD son who has challenging behaviours. The care, compassion, inclusivity and support over the past few years has been amazing. I have struggled with my mental health while raising a disabled child and all the staff have
supported me and my son through the highs and lows. Nothing is ever too much, they have battled alongside me with each process and made sure my son has the provisions he requires to thrive. The manager and keyworker have been so supportive, professional, friendly and most of all feel like family. I will be forever grateful for all your hard work and would be lost with you. It will be a very sad day when my son transitions to his new school.
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Review from N M (Mother of Child) published on 27 March 2024 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
My experience with Happy Days Derriford has been exceptional. The staff have been incredibly accommodating, understanding, and always super friendly. They always greet us with a smile and really put my mind at ease especially when going back to work and leaving my daughter in their care, (who had never
been left with anyone!).
They've shown genuine care and have made my daughter's time safe, supportive and educational. We're grateful for such a nurturing environment, she has been there almost a year now and absolutely loves it, the settling sessions were perfect and I would recommend the nursery to anyone.
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Review from E S (Mother of Child) published on 27 March 2024 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
The management team and all the staff at Happy Days are just so wonderful. They have set strong foundations for us for our early years journey.
Being a first-time mum it was challenging for me, however the support from the management team and staff filled me with great confidence.
The care and compassion
that is shown in the nursery is incredible to see. We are excited for this journey.
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Review from Becca L (Mother of Child) published on 26 April 2023 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
Happy Days Derriford have been nothing but kind, helpful and welcoming. They have been fantastic at managing my daughters' allergies and provide lots of great food alternatives that she is able to eat. They have been amazing at learning about her disability and how to manage it while she is in nursery.
I felt so welcomed this morning when we walked into her nursery room and a staff member, knowing that my daughter is deaf, signed good morning to her, it was so lovely to see! They have been fantastic at supporting my daughter as she has moved from one room to another, giving her lots of time in her new room to let her get used to both the new environment and the new staff before she fully moved up. I will be so sad when she leaves as everyone there has been amazing and I can see how much she loves it!
Reply from Kelly Russell, Digital Marketing Executive at Happy Days Nursery & Preschool - Derriford
Thank you for such a lovely review and we are so glad your daughter has settled with us so well.
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Review from Carol C (Mother of Child) published on 24 April 2023 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
I can’t express how much praise I have for all the staff at Happy Days Nursery & Preschool - Derriford. My son has loved every minute of his time here and we will all be so sad when it’s time for him to go to school in September. He’s turned into such a sociable little boy and his development has been
supported 100%. Nothing is ever a chore or too much trouble for them.
Thank you all so much.
Reply from Kelly Russell, Digital Marketing Executive at Happy Days Nursery & Preschool - Derriford
Thank you for your wonderful feedback Carol! We greatly appreciate it!
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Current Review Score: 9.9 (9.888)

Overview of Review Score

The Review Score of 9.9 (9.888) out of 10 for Happy Days Nursery & Preschool - Derriford is based on a) the Average Rating and b) the number of positive Reviews.

  1. The Average Rating is 4.9 out of 5 from 38 Reviews in the last 24 months.
  2. The score for the number of positive Reviews is 5.0 out of 5 from 38 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 4.888 for Happy Days Nursery & Preschool - Derriford is calculated as follows: ( (411 Excellents x 5) + (39 Goods x 4) + (6 Satisfactorys x 3) ) ÷ 456 Ratings = 4.888
  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 Happy Days Nursery & Preschool - Derriford is based on 38 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 146 number of registered child places is 29.2, which has been reached with 38 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 (7)

Meet the Team (1)

Zara

Zara Austin

Job Title: Nursery Manager

Zara has worked in childcare for 17 years, 7 of those at Happy Days where she started as a Peripatetic Deputy Manager. Accompanied by her wealth of experience, Zara has also received a Level 3 Diploma, a Level 4 Team leading qualification, and a Level 5 award in Management. Zara is loving her new role and enjoys building relationships with her colleagues and the families in her care.

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