Children 1st Chesterfield Nursery School

Chesterfield Royal Hospital, Dryhurst House, Calow, Chesterfield S44 5BL
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10 152 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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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 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

Children 1st Chesterfield Nursery School Reviews (152)

10

Children 1st Chesterfield Nursery School has a Review Score of 10 (9.954) out of 10, based on 49 reviews in the last 2 years.
Over all time Children 1st Chesterfield Nursery School has 152 reviews.

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Total of 152, showing 121-140
Review from Amanda R (Mother of Child) published on 8 November 2017 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
Having moved to the area in May, I spent a lot of time looking for the right nursery for my 2-year-old. (Who loved his previous nursery) from the moment we walked in he loved it and just wanted to play with everything. He especially enjoys the outside space which is great for exploring and learning.


Despite being a little unsettled to start with all of the staff were so patient and kind that he settled in really quickly. He is progressing really well through the great leading techniques they have.


Also, the meals are great and he is eating all sorts of new foods.

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Review from Danny (Father of Child) published on 13 June 2017 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
Our child started in April 2017 and has settled really well, the staff have brought the best out of him. They keep detailed records of his progression which they feed back to us on a regular basis and since starting at the nursery he has become more sociable and has developed numerous key skills. The
only slight criticism I have is that the meal selection has become less "healthy" than when we first went in and checked the menu. That said the staff have been great and have assisted my wife with carrying out our child following her back surgery. Overall we are extremely happy with the nursery and its staff.
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Review from Jodie R (Mother of Child) published on 12 April 2017 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
Extremely happy with my child's care at nursery. He learns so much and enjoys the activities he undertakes. Once the upstairs refurbishment is complete, the nursery will be modern and up to date. They have excellent outside facilities and my little one spends a great deal of time outside, weather permitting,
which he loves.
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Review from Ian L (Father of Child) published on 23 March 2017 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
The staff are great and build a good rapport with the children. Management generally resolves issues quickly and respond to comments in a timely manner. We selected this nursery as a family member recommended it and the OFSTED rating but the outside space was the deciding factor. All facilities either
have or are being refurbished to a good standard including outdoor facilities; clearly demonstrating the business is investing in the nurseries future for the benefit of all stakeholders. The eyLog system was a great addition to enable parents to follow their child's progress online. The only comment I would make is I'd like to see more videos or images reflecting the observations. Lastly, I have found the accounts team very helpful when determining account balances and fees due which we made all the more complicated by overpaying through two separate childcare voucher schemes.
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Review from Lauren S (Mother of Child) published on 22 March 2017 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
I would highly recommend Children 1st Nursery @ The Chesterfield Royal Hospital. Both my children have attended the nursery and have really enjoyed their time at Nursery. The nursery itself is lovely and has a lovely welcoming feeling as soon as you enter. All the staff are excellent, loving, supportive
& make all the children feel happy and at ease. I visited many nurseries in Chesterfield and confirm this nursery was my favourite by far. The "outstanding" ofsted report also gives you the piece of mind you need when making a difficult decision of returning to work and leaving your babies.
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Review from Sunita K (Mother of Child) published on 8 March 2017 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
I am extremely happy with the development of my daughter. She is a confident, happy and independent child who thoroughly enjoys attending nursery. Nursery staff have a brilliant relationship with her and I am always comfortable leaving her.
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Review from Nazma S (Mother of Child) published on 28 February 2017 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
I have previously used Children 1st at Chesterfield Royal Hospital for my son many years ago and was so impressed with both their facilities and staff, that when I fell pregnant with my daughter, there really was no question as to which nursery she would be attending when I returned to work from maternity
leave. It's really good to see that the standards are still high as they were back in 2008. I would just like to add that all the staff are very welcoming and very very approachable. Keep up the good work ladies!!
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Review from Josie (Mother of Child) published on 27 February 2017 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 4.0 out of 5
The staff are very friendly and I am confident my daughter is well looked after and happy at this Nursery. The staff have been very supportive during potty training and helping my child progress by providing a great learning environment. The only negative is that we have to pay for bank holidays even
though the Nursery is closed, although I appreciate the staff still have to be paid.
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Review from Philippa F (Mother of Child) published on 27 February 2017 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
Really friendly staff who seem to care about our daughter and make her days at nursery fun and stimulating for her. The food always looks to be good quality. Management and staff in the baby room with our daughter are always happy and smiling when I pick her up.
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Review from Sam (Mother of Child) published on 27 February 2017 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
Good friendly staff who seem to know children and parents well, seem to be good meals and nursery is clean,
I was told when looking around in October that upstairs was waiting to be refurbished this is now happening end of Feb so good and fast with promises they make
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Review from Dawn A (Mother of Child) published on 27 February 2017 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
I have two children with a 10 year age gap and both of them have been to this nursery. It is fantastic. I have recommended it several times and at least 2 of the current children have come via a recommendation from me.
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Review from Jeannette R (Mother of Child) published on 27 February 2017 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
The nursery is amazing - both facilities and staff could not be better. I know that my daughter is safe, well looked after, stimulated and taught whilst there. I would (and do) recommend it to friends and colleagues.
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Review from Clare (Mother of Child) published on 27 February 2017 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
Children's 1st nursery at the Royal hospital, Calow is a fantastic nursery. All the staff are attentive to each individual child and the atmosphere is always friendly and relaxed. The children always look like they are having a great time, there's plenty of space for play and there are a variety of
activities from day to day. Communication between staff and parents is excellent, with an individual hand over every day, a written diary as well as updates on the app which include photos of what your child has been up to. They cook homemade nutritious food on the premises. Every member of staff has a lovely manner with all the children and my daughter always comes away happy. Couldn't recommend it enough!
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Review from Cheryl S (Mother of Child) published on 17 October 2016 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
It took a long time for us to find a nursery that we felt happy to leave our young daughter at and even once we decided, it felt a leap of faith. However, now after nearly a year, we couldn't be happier with our choice. The nursery itself is a safe, clean and stimulating environment with exceptional
outdoor space. The staff are welcoming, caring and knowledgeable. The activities are varied and interesting. It is reassuring to know that we know as parents through their detailed daily feedback they understand her personality and whilst allowing her to enjoy the things she loves they also encourage her to develop other skills and interests. My husband, in particular, likes the e-log updates that we regularly receive about her progress and especially the photographs that evidence these. The food is prepared fresh on-site and is varied and high quality. It is fantastic to know that she is being looked after so well while we're at work!
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Review from Edward (Father of Child) published on 22 September 2016 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
My second child had just started here and already loves it as much as the eldest. The brilliant staff are very welcoming and make sure the kids feel at home in a warm and friendly environment, it gives you a real confidence to leave your children in their care. The outside space is fantastic with large
areas for each age group to play in and explore.
Our children have such a fantastic time here - I cannot recommend it enough.
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Review from Alex H (Father of Child) published on 1 September 2016 Submitted via Postal Card • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
Really great nursery, friendly staff. My daughter loves going there and loves the staff. I have total confidence in the nursery, staff and management and my daughter is encouraged to develop socially, emotionally and intellectually. The nursery environment is welcoming, warm and safe. Staff and management
are professional and knowledgeable as well as friendly and polite at all times. Her development in terms of socialising, playing, sharing etc. since going to nursery has gone up leaps and bounds.
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Review from Kerry W (Mother of Child) published on 19 August 2016 Submitted via Postal Card • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
The nursery provides a safe, secure, nurturing and yet educational setting for children. My little boy feels safe, happy and loved by the staff in his room. They appreciate each child for their individual traits and skills. Throughout the year there are a range of special days and activities. I have
just watched my little boys graduation which was wonderful! The staff also excel at promoting health and self care skills such as dressing, toileting and healthy eating. We can't thank them enough.
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Review from Ellie B (Mother of Child) published on 19 August 2016 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
I would recommend this nursery to all my family and friends, without a doubt. The staff are so friendly and helpful, and my little boy is so happy and content. He is developing amazingly and I do believe this nursery has contributed greatly to this to. All round a lovely nursery with lovely staff.
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Review from Claire H (Mother of Child) published on 18 August 2016 Submitted via Postal Card • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
I am extremely happy with this nursery. I have 2 children here currently and the nursery has helped immensely with their development. All the staff are very friendly and genuinely care for all of the children. The range of activities both indoor and outdoor is more than I could ask. Both of my children
are happy to go to nursery and enjoy everyday.
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Review from Theresa C (Mother of Child) published on 17 August 2016 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
This is a fantastic establishment with a real family ethos. The staff are wonderful and supportive in all areas of child development, attachment, healthy eating and play. I am very grateful that they are able to support my child on growing whilst I am working!
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Current Review Score: 10.0 (9.954)

Overview of Review Score

The Review Score of 10 (9.954) 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 49 Reviews in the last 24 months.
  2. The score for the number of positive Reviews is 5.0 out of 5 from 49 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 4.954 for Children 1st Chesterfield Nursery School is calculated as follows: ( (562 Excellents x 5) + (23 Goods x 4) + (2 Satisfactorys x 3) ) ÷ 587 Ratings = 4.954
  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 49 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 73 number of registered child places is 14.6, which has been reached with 49 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)

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.

Information on this page is displayed without responsibility for its accuracy on the part of daynurseries.co.uk. Please contact Children 1st Chesterfield Nursery School to verify any information. View our terms and conditions. Children 1st Chesterfield Nursery School has an Enhanced Service - more info.