Children 1st Chesterfield Nursery School

Chesterfield Royal Hospital, Dryhurst House, Calow, Chesterfield S44 5BL
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Top 20 award
10 160 Reviews
  • Children 1st Chesterfield Nursery School, Chesterfield
Children 1st Chesterfield Nursery School is situated close to Chesterfield city centre within a listed building with a fabulous garden. The nursery has been refurbished to offer children from birth to five years a warm, welcoming and stimulating learning environment. Funded places are available for eligible 2, 3 and 4-year-olds.

The nursery features age-appropriate rooms and a large outdoor garden with outdoor classrooms, a mud kitchen, a fort and a woodland area, which offers the children a chance to explore their surroundings.

Highly trained and experienced staff undertake exciting forestry school activities, musical funky feet sessions and baby ballet. The children also have access to the local swimming pool and are offered classes by qualified instructors.

A healthy menu is created and prepared by a dedicated chef who develops nutritionally balanced meals and caters for any specific dietary requirements.
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Funding & Fees

Contact Children 1st Chesterfield Nursery School to get a personalised quote.

Contact Children 1st Chesterfield Nursery School to get a personalised quote.

Type of Service

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

Group/Owner

Person in Charge

  • Katie McNamara (Manager)

Number of Childcare Staff

  • 20

Total Places for Children

  • 73

Age Range

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

Opening Times

  • Monday 08:00-18:00
    Tuesday 08:00-18:00
    Wednesday 08:00-18:00
    Thursday 08:00-18:00
    Friday 08:00-18:00

When Closed

  • Bank Holidays & Christmas

Children 1st Chesterfield Nursery School Reviews (160)

10

Children 1st Chesterfield Nursery School has a Review Score of 10 (10.000) out of 10, based on 28 reviews in the last 2 years.
Over all time Children 1st Chesterfield Nursery School has 160 reviews.

Overall Experience
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Date Published
  • 160
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  • 28
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Reviewer Connection to Children 1st Chesterfield Nursery School
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Total of 160, showing 21-40
Review from E M (Mother of Child) published on 7 January 2025 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
Cannot recommend this nursery enough. My children absolutely love it, The staff are always so friendly and helpful. There is nothing more comforting at drop off knowing they are being cared for at a high standard.
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Review from Hannah C (Mother of Child) published on 7 January 2025 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
Absolutely amazing nursery. My little girl absolutely loves it and is so happy to go. 10/10 highly recommended. I never worry when she is there because I know if anything was wrong, nursery wouldn't hesitate to give me a call and ask me or inform me.
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Review from Nathan W (Father of Child) published on 7 January 2025 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
We are incredibly grateful for the wonderful experience our daughter has had. From day one, the staff has been warm, nurturing, and genuinely invested in her growth. The curriculum is engaging and thoughtfully designed, allowing her to explore, learn, and make lasting friendships. It's heartwarming
to see how much she has blossomed in this loving environment.
As the time approaches for her to leave and transition to the next stage of her education, our hearts feel heavy. Saying goodbye is bittersweet, it has been a second home for our family. The memories and bonds she has formed here will always be cherished. We can't thank the staff enough for their dedication and love. We will miss you dearly. We highly recommend the nursery to any parent seeking a nurturing and enriching environment for their little ones.
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Review from K H (Mother of Child) published on 7 January 2025 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
My son started here when he was nine months old. His development has come on so much since he started its amazing to see. I feel informed regularly by the staff with regular updates and my husband I feel nothing is too much trouble for them.
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Review from Becky R (Mother of Child) published on 18 September 2024 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
Our son has been attending the nursery since he was a year old and has just left ready to start school. He has been met every day with a smile and the staff have always been very attentive and clearly care for the children they look after.
He has been supported through his early years and encouraged
to be independent and ready for school. We know how much he has enjoyed his years with the Children 1st team and as parents, we are grateful for the amazing foundation that they have helped him develop.
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Review from B H (Mother of Child) published on 10 September 2024 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
Our daughter has just finished at Children 1st and her care throughout her time there has been amazing. Wonderful learning experiences and environment for her to grow and thrive. If ever we have had an issue it has been dealt with quickly and efficiently. They are so understanding and especially helpful
to shift workers. They just understand the way shift work and off-duty works. Thank you Children 1st from the bottom of our hearts.
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Review from C L (Mother of Child) published on 28 August 2024 Submitted via Postal Card • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
All staff have been wonderful since day one. My son started going to their nursery when he was 10 months old and now he's ready for reception. They have been supportive of his ECAT sessions. He can now express and say what he wants. He's been more confident in his speech and he likes having a conversation.
He was able to follow the song they sang on their graduation day.
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Review from Laura E (Mother of Child) published on 28 August 2024 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
5 star and more! Our little boy has come on so much during his time here. All the staff here are friendly, kind and caring. I have always felt comfortable leaving him in their safe hands. They have the most amazing secure outside space, it's so big and kept in such great condition. I love how much he
gets up to everyday he goes, it's never the same thing always something different. He's made some amazing friendships and enjoys his time here. I would definitely recommend Children 1st Chesterfield Breedon House.
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Review from Rebecca C (Mother of Child) published on 18 March 2024 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
Brilliant nursery setting - the outside space is second to none and is a fantastic asset - and worth travelling across town to get to. My little girl has come on so well under their care; she eats better because of the excellent food and is learning so much and progressing so well, mostly down to their
attentive teaching and support. Forest school visits are also a great bonus!
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Review from Laura J (Mother of Child) published on 18 March 2024 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
Our son started nursery in November last year and we were very nervous about leaving him for the first time when he was still young. The nursery team were great at settling him in and putting our minds at rest, saying it was fine to ring anytime to check in on him. He loves going to nursery and we love
the photo updates and can really see how he is progressing at nursery. The online system is very easy to use and it helps me feel, as a mum, I can keep checking on how he is doing and see areas he is learning and developing in.
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Review from Mary J (Mother of Child) published on 12 March 2024 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
The daycare takes good care of my daughter as is evident from the way she excitedly goes to the nursery from day one. I love the food options and the outdoor play area which is well maintained. I love that periodical observations are made about her personal, emotional and physical developments, it keeps
me on track of the same.
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Review from E B (Mother of Child) published on 7 March 2024 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
Having had two children attend this nursery since 2018, we have experienced care from most staff members and could not fault the team in the care of our little ones. With additional care needs for allergies as well as medical emergencies happening on site, through to support for our children during
family difficulties and bereavement of their grandparent, we have had wonderful, caring and supportive care from the manager and the whole team. We cannot thank them enough and would not place loved ones at this precious stage of life anywhere else. The level of care, training and attention to detail is next to none.
Fantastic all round.
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Review from N S (Mother of Child) published on 7 March 2024 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
Brilliant service and very accommodating. Friendly staff who care for children with empathy and compassion whilst remaining professional. I would recommend Children 1st nurseries to my family and friends especially Chesterfield Royal Hospital base.
Catered really well for my child’s additional needs
and introduced extra physio, speech and language and sensory desensitisation sessions into nursery play.
Nursery rooms are all spacious with a lot of developmental toys. Outdoor space is brilliant.
Only recommendations I would suggest is to complete referrals timely to provide extra funding and support for nursery staff for children with additional needs. Also to complete more baking facilities for children with allergens, to allow children with allergies to be involved in baking time more often.
Overall brilliant nursery. My child absolutely loves attending and seeing her nursery teachers.
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Review from S B (Mother of Child) published on 7 March 2024 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
Amazing nursery, my son absolutely loves being there and I feel so comfortable leaving him there with every single staff member. From the food, they give to the activities it’s all-round brilliant. Thank you.
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Review from Becky M (Mother of Child) published on 5 March 2024 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
Our son started at the nursery in January 2024, they were understanding of our worries and our nerves in putting our little boy in nursery for the first time when we had to return to work after having our little girl. They put our mind at rest from the very beginning and couldn't have done more to settle
him in! Staff were attentive and caring way before he started and went out of their way to get to know him and embrace him from day 1! At little notice, they were able to offer the same care and time to look after our youngest daughter and made the whole starting experience as stress-free as possible. They are always happy to see them and always there to help us. 2 under 2, with both parents in full-time work isn't for the faint-hearted but it's easier when you know they are happy, safe and cared for by the best of the best.
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Review from Georgina S (Mother of Child) published on 5 March 2024 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
The nursery was recommended to me by other parents at a playgroup we attend and I’m so glad it was. I was apprehensive about if my son would settle in ok but he absolutely loves it and being able to ring for updates was very reassuring. The staff have all been amazing and it really is appreciated. My
son particularly enjoys the very impressive outdoor area and loves getting involved in the arts and crafts.
Thank you so much to all the staff at Children 1st @ Chesterfield Royal Hospital!
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Review from A B (Mother of Child) published on 5 March 2024 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
A brilliant nursery, my little one loves going. 100% satisfied with the care they provide. Communication from the nursery is brilliant with monthly observations provided. Lots of things for the little ones to do. My little one loves joining in with all the activities, especially the forest school.
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Review from Megan T (Mother of Child) published on 5 March 2024 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
I cannot speak highly enough about the incredible care and dedication provided by the staff at Children 1st. From the day we enrolled her, they have consistently gone above and beyond to ensure her safety, happiness, and development. The staff at the nursery are not just caregivers; they are nurturing
mentors who foster a stimulating environment for the children. They engage them in enriching activities, encourage their curiosity, and celebrate their milestones with genuine joy.
Every child is welcomed with open arms, fostering a sense of belonging and camaraderie among the little ones. The communication between the nursery and parents is great. They keep us informed about our daughter's progress and share insightful observations. Our experience with this nursery has been exceptional. We are so grateful for the love and care they provide to our daughter. We wholeheartedly recommend this nursery to any parent seeking a nurturing and supportive environment for their child's early years!
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Review from Gemma H (Mother of Child) published on 5 March 2024 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
Both my children have attended this nursery and I can't speak highly enough of the nursery as a whole. The facilities are fantastic and in particular, the outside area is a real plus, offering a fantastic space to play, be creative and spend as much time outdoors as possible.
For me what really makes
this nursery so special is the staff. Both my children have created really lovely relationships with the staff who are always engaged, open, friendly and professional. You can see how much they care for the children and are always ready to listen to any concerns you or your child may have. I am so pleased that we found Children 1st @ Chesterfield Royal Hospital. As a family, we couldn't have asked for a better experience or place for our children to be nurtured and grow. I wouldn't hesitate to recommend this nursery to any other family.
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Review from G W (Father of Child) published on 5 March 2024 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
Fantastic Nursey. All the staff go beyond expectations, always happy to help with any concerns. They are professional and friendly keep up the good. Parking can be an issue at times but that’s nothing to do with the Nursey.
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Current Review Score: 10.0 (10.000)

Overview of Review Score

The Review Score of 10 (10.000) out of 10 for Children 1st Chesterfield Nursery School 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 28 Reviews in the last 24 months.
  2. The score for the number of positive Reviews is 5.0 out of 5 from 28 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 5.000 for Children 1st Chesterfield Nursery School is calculated as follows: ( (335 Excellents x 5) ) ÷ 335 Ratings = 5
  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 Children 1st Chesterfield Nursery School is based on 28 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 20 Positive Reviews in the last 24 months; 3 points for the first Positive Review, 0.125 Points for each of the next four Positive Reviews, 0.05 Points for the next five Positive Reviews, and finally 0.025 Points for the next ten Positive Reviews. (1st = 3.000, 2nd = 0.125, 3rd = 0.125, 4th = 0.125, 5th = 0.125, 6th = 0.050, 7th = 0.050, 8th = 0.050, 9th = 0.050, 10th = 0.050, 11th = 0.025, 12th = 0.025, 13th = 0.025, 14th = 0.025, 15th = 0.025, 16th = 0.025, 17th = 0.025, 18th = 0.025, 19th = 0.025, 20th = 0.025) 3 + 0.125 + 0.125 + 0.125 + 0.125 + 0.05 + 0.05 + 0.05 + 0.05 + 0.05 + 0.025 + 0.025 + 0.025 + 0.025 + 0.025 + 0.025 + 0.025 + 0.025 + 0.025 + 0.025 = 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 73 number of registered child places is 14.6, which has been reached with 28 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 (10)

Meet the Team (1)

Katie

Katie McNamara

Job Title: Nursery Manager Joined: 2010

Hello, I’m Katie Macnamara, Nursery Manager at Children 1st @ Chesterfield Royal Hospital. I have worked in childcare for 9 and half years and completed level 3 in Child Care And Education at Chesterfield College in 2009.
I then worked in my first nursery to gain experience and joined Children 1st @ Chesterfield Royal Hospital in June 2010 as a Qualified Nursery Nurse working in the toddler room. After 9 months I started to work with children aged 3 and above to support with the transition to school. I moved back into the toddler room in 2012 to help support younger children.
In October 2013 I was promoted to Senior Nursery Nurse of the toddler room where I gained experience in leading a room. I built up good relationships with the staff team as well as parents and children. I also supported new staff with their induction period.
In September 2014 I became the Deputy Manager. I now support the manager with her duties, I also support with new parents and children during their settling in period ensuring they feel welcome and valued and help them to settle into a new routine. I am enjoying my new role and learning new things about the job, working with Children 1st and what the company stands for.

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