Loading...

Handkerchief Day Nursery

High Street, Kegworth, Derby DE74 2DA
Handkerchief Day Nursery Logo
Handkerchief Day Nursery logo
Handkerchief Day Nursery, Derby
Handkerchief Day Nursery, Derby
Handkerchief Day Nursery, Derby

Handkerchief Day Nursery Kegworth is renowned for its extensive outdoor learning environment, which forms a central part of the nursery experience. Highly experienced Forest School leaders deliver daily Forest School sessions, supporting children as they explore the natural world through hands-on activities. Under close supervision, children are encouraged to use real tools, chop wood, cook over a fire pit, and enjoy experiences such as making hot chocolate, while the discovery...  

Funding & Fees

Contact Handkerchief Day Nursery to get a personalised quote:

Type of Service

  • Day Nursery

Opening Schedule

Open all year

Full days available

Yes

Half day sessions offered

No

Group/Owner

Person in charge

  • Julie Stamps (Nursery Manager)

Number of Childcare Staff

  • 30

Total Places for Children

  • 110

Age Range

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

Meals Provided

No

Consumables provided

No

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

Parking

  • Onsite parking available.

Handkerchief Day Nursery Reviews (62)

9.9

Handkerchief Day Nursery has a Review Score of 9.9 (9.935) out of 10, based on 27 reviews in the last 2 years. Over all time Handkerchief Day Nursery has 62 reviews.

Filter Reviews
Overall Experience
Date Published
Reviewer Connection to Handkerchief Day Nursery
Loading...
Showing 62 reviews matching selected criteria
Review from Claire G (Mother of Child) published on 8 June 2026 Submitted via Website
Overall Experience

Handkerchiefs is a welcoming, humble, joyful place. Our baby moved unexpectedly here and she took to it ecxcellently! The staff are warm and show genuine care about her. The food is loved by my little one, with the most varied menu I have come across. The outdoor environment is rustic and great for little explorers to be at one with nature. I would definitely recommend this Nursery. My extremely good encounters have been with Penny, Jayne and Deputy Manager Zoe; they are a credit to your team!

Reply from Becca Broadhurst, Customer Care Partner at Handkerchief Day Nursery

Thank you for your lovely review and for recommending Handkerchief Nursery.

We're so pleased to hear that your daughter settled in so well and has enjoyed her time with us. It's wonderful to know that our team's care, the varied menu and our outdoor environment have all contributed to a positive...  

Facilities / Outside Space
Learning
Resources / Equipment / ICT
Care
Activities
Staff
Food / Nutrition
Management
Cleanliness
Safeguarding
Value for Money
Review from Sophie F (Mother of Child) published on 8 June 2026 Submitted via Website
Overall Experience
My daughter has been going to Handkerchief since she was 9 months old, the staff have always been great from the baby room up to toddlers room with is where my daughter is now..

She is always happy to attend nursery and is excited to see her favourite key worker. My daughter has thrived and her confidence had grown since going to nursery.. I'm really pleased with the nursery as a whole, I know there recent offstead wasn't the best but the nursery have worked hard to make the chances where necessary.

Reply from Becca Broadhurst, Customer Care Partner at Handkerchief Day Nursery

Thank you for taking the time to share your experience.

We're delighted to hear that your daughter enjoys coming to nursery and has built such a positive relationship with her key worker. It's wonderful to know that she has grown in confidence and continues to thrive as she progresses through...  

Facilities / Outside Space
Learning
Resources / Equipment / ICT
Care
Activities
Staff
Food / Nutrition
Management
Cleanliness
Safeguarding
Value for Money
Review from Natalie M (Mother of Child) published on 8 June 2026 Submitted via Website
Overall Experience

The nursery is wonderful. My son who is now 8 attended and my 2 year old currently. Despite changing from privately owned to family first I was pleased to find the nursery just as great as when my eldest attended. I had viewed so many nurseries and my 2 year old attended elsewhere to begin with but he just wasn't happy. Now at Hankerchief he is thriving. The staff are superstars and the rooms are stimulating, fun, safe, cosy and clean.

Reply from Becca Broadhurst, Customer Care Partner at Handkerchief Day Nursery

Thank you for your lovely review and for choosing us for both of your children.

We're so pleased to hear that your youngest is happy and thriving with us. It's especially rewarding to know that you found the nursery just as positive after the transition to Family First.

Thank you for your...  

Facilities / Outside Space
Learning
Resources / Equipment / ICT
Care
Activities
Staff
Food / Nutrition
Management
Cleanliness
Safeguarding
Value for Money
Review from D W (Mother of Child) published on 22 May 2026 Submitted via Website
Overall Experience
My son has been attending since August 2025 and he absolutely loves it here, he gets excited to go, which says everything. The staff are all so lovely, caring, and supportive, and they've created such a warm and welcoming environment.He has developed so much and learned an incredible amount. We've seen a huge boost in his confidence, communication, and overall development. One thing we especially love is how much time the children spend outdoors, exploring and playing outside, which he really enjoys.

It's so reassuring as a parent to know your child is happy, safe, and genuinely thriving. We're so grateful to all the staff for the care and effort they put into every day. Highly recommend!

Reply from Becca Broadhurst, Customer Care Partner at Handkerchief Day Nursery

Thank you so much for your wonderful review and recommendation.

We are delighted to hear how much your son enjoys attending the nursery and that he is excited to come each day. Creating a warm, welcoming, and supportive environment where children feel happy and confident is something we are very...  

Facilities / Outside Space
Learning
Resources / Equipment / ICT
Care
Activities
Staff
Food / Nutrition
Management
Cleanliness
Safeguarding
Value for Money
Review from J C (Mother of Child) published on 22 May 2026 Submitted via Website
Overall Experience
Both of my little ones go to this nursery and we think it's a fab place for them to be :)!
The staff are friendly and helpful and genuinely care about the children and building strong relationships with them!
My little boy has been in each room now and has come away every day with a big smile on his face, my little girl is currently in babies and really enjoys it :)

A great nursery with great staff that id recommend to anyone!

Reply from Becca Broadhurst, Customer Care Partner at Handkerchief Day Nursery

Thank you very much for your kind review and recommendation.

We are delighted to hear that both of your children are so happy and settled with us. It is wonderful to know that your little boy has enjoyed his journey through each room and that your little girl is also thriving in our baby...  

Facilities / Outside Space
Learning
Resources / Equipment / ICT
Care
Activities
Staff
Food / Nutrition
Management
Cleanliness
Safeguarding
Value for Money
Review from Ellie W (Mother of Child) published on 14 May 2026 Submitted via Website
Overall Experience
Our son moved to handkerchief nursery at the start of the new year, following the closure of the nursery he was previously at. with such a change we were worried about him resettling etc, but all the staff were absolutely amazing and so reassuring during the settling in process, it really helped putting our mind at ease.
Our son seems to have settled so well and happily goes over to staff at drop off. We get frequent pictures on the family app of what he has been up to during the day and things he's enjoyed! What he's eaten and how much he's ate!
The nursery itself is lovely both inside and outside, and I really enjoy how much they get the children outside playing, at several pick ups they have been playing out in the gardens having fun!

Thank you to all staff who have been so reassuring, helpful, and supportive with everything

Reply from Becca Broadhurst, Customer Care Partner at Handkerchief Day Nursery
Thank you so much for taking the time to share your experience with us. We completely understand how worrying a nursery transition can be, so we're delighted to hear that our team helped make the settling-in process reassuring and positive for both you and your son.

It's wonderful to know he has...  

Facilities / Outside Space
Learning
Resources / Equipment / ICT
Care
Activities
Staff
Food / Nutrition
No Rating
Management
Cleanliness
Safeguarding
Value for Money
Review from A P (Mother of Child) published on 11 May 2026 Submitted via Website
Overall Experience
My daughter has been at Handkerchief since March 2024, and she absolutely loves it. The staff are wonderful they always know exactly how to cheer her up, even on those more difficult, rushed mornings.
I've also experienced their incredible support personally during a challenging time, and it reassured me that I wouldn't want my daughter anywhere else.
She comes home singing the songs they teach and proudly shows me the paintings and drawings she's created. The updates on the app are fantastic and so reassuring while I'm at work-it's lovely to see photos of her happy and playing, or to know she's slept well and enjoyed her meals.

I would wholeheartedly recommend this nursery-and my daughter would too!

Reply from Jennifer OShea, Customer Care Manager at Handkerchief Day Nursery

Thank you so much for your lovely review. We are delighted to hear how much your daughter enjoys her time at Handkerchief and that she feels so happy and settled with us. It means a great deal to know that our team has been able to support both your daughter and your family, especially during more challenging times.

Facilities / Outside Space
Learning
Resources / Equipment / ICT
Care
Activities
Staff
Food / Nutrition
Management
Cleanliness
Safeguarding
Value for Money
Review from Laura W (Mother of Child) published on 11 May 2026 Submitted via Website
Overall Experience

All 3 of my children have been to Handkerchief and I have always been pleased with their care. The children have been safe and happy. The team are lovely and approachable and form lovely relationships with the children. I would highly recommend the nursery.

Reply from Jennifer OShea, Customer Care Manager at Handkerchief Day Nursery

Thank you so much for your kind words. It is lovely to hear that all three of your children have been happy, safe, and well cared for at Handkerchief. We're also pleased to hear that the team's relationships with the children and families have made such a positive impact.

Facilities / Outside Space
Learning
Resources / Equipment / ICT
Care
Activities
Staff
Food / Nutrition
Management
Cleanliness
Safeguarding
Value for Money
Review from Andrew O (Father of Child) published on 8 May 2026 Submitted via Website
Overall Experience
Amazing little nursery which Phoebe-Drew loves going to, the staff are super attentive.

And super friendly, and I couldn't think of a better place to set her.

Outdoor time and forest club, she's absolutely adores.

Thanks guys

Reply from Jennifer OShea, Customer Care Manager at Handkerchief Day Nursery

Thank you so much for your kind words. Were thrilled to hear how much Phoebe-Drew loves coming to nursery and that youve had such a positive experience with our team.

Facilities / Outside Space
Learning
Resources / Equipment / ICT
Care
Activities
Staff
Food / Nutrition
Management
Cleanliness
Safeguarding
Value for Money
Review from Jessica P (Mother of Child) published on 6 May 2026 Submitted via Website
Overall Experience

My daughter has attended Handkerchief since she was 9 months old and settled in straight away. She absolutely adores the staff and this has made dropping her off in the mornings such a breeze as I know that she is in great hands of staff that are loving and caring.

Reply from Dawn Baker, Customer Care Partner at Handkerchief Day Nursery

Thank you so much for your kind words. We're delighted to hear that your daughter settled in so quickly and feels so happy with us. It's wonderful to know she adores the team-that really means a lot, as building warm, trusting relationships is at the heart of what we do.

Facilities / Outside Space
Learning
Resources / Equipment / ICT
Care
Activities
Staff
Food / Nutrition
Management
Cleanliness
Safeguarding
Value for Money
Review from Rachael T (Mother of Child) published on 6 May 2026 Submitted via Website
Overall Experience
I absolutly love this Nursery.

My little boy Arthur has been here since September 2025 and he loves it.

From the moment I came to look around, to sorting the preperation out before the start date and up until now every member of staff has been fabulous. They are caring and friendly and go above and beyond to support you on your childs journey but also you on your new parent journey.

Ive felt so welcomed by the team, the babies team are amazing and i genuinly believe my little boy is confident, outgoing and smiley because of them.

He has now moved up to tweenies and again the transtion was easy.

Hes learning lots and is on track with his development, again thanks to the variety of activities they do.

The outdoor space here is brilliant, im so glad I chose this nursery and would recommend to anyone

Reply from Dawn Baker, Customer Care Partner at Handkerchief Day Nursery

Thank you so much for your wonderful feedback. It means a lot to know that you've felt supported not only in Arthur's journey but in your own as a parent too-that's something we truly value. We'll be sure to pass on your kind words to both the babies and tweenies teams; they'll be delighted to hear...  

Facilities / Outside Space
Learning
Resources / Equipment / ICT
Care
Activities
Staff
Food / Nutrition
Management
Cleanliness
Safeguarding
Value for Money
Review from L H (Mother of Child) published on 6 May 2026 Submitted via Website
Overall Experience

The care for the children is second to none. My little one has settled in perfectly and thats down to the devoted team.

Staff dont only care for my child but they're understanding of us as parents.

The surroundings and facilities are great.

My little one loves the food there is so much variety

Reply from Dawn Baker, Customer Care Partner at Handkerchief Day Nursery

Thank you so much for your kind feedback. We're delighted to hear that your little one has settled in so well-it's always our priority to help children feel safe, happy, and confident in their environment. It's especially lovely to know you feel supported as parents too; building strong...  

Facilities / Outside Space
Learning
Resources / Equipment / ICT
Care
Activities
Staff
Food / Nutrition
Management
Cleanliness
Safeguarding
Value for Money
Review from K D (Mother of Child) published on 6 May 2026 Submitted via Website
Overall Experience

I have two children at Handkerchief, both in different rooms and I am so very pleased and happy with their care. They both have food allergies which are catered to incredibly well and treated formally and professionally. I feel they are treated with true care and compassion. As well as a brilliant amount of time outside - my 2 year old taught me how to saw wood this weekend and was very insistent on telling me how not to touch the blades of his plastic saw. The staff are 'the village' we all hear about and I am safe in the knowledge I trust their judgement. Their communication and updates via the app are also very efficient, in real time and thorough which I really appreciate. Would highly recommend

Reply from Dawn Baker, Customer Care Partner at Handkerchief Day Nursery

Thank you so much for your thoughtful and detailed feedback. We're absolutely delighted to hear how happy you are with the care your children receive across both rooms. Supporting children with food allergies safely and professionally is incredibly important to us, so it's wonderful to know you...  

Facilities / Outside Space
Learning
Resources / Equipment / ICT
Care
Activities
Staff
Food / Nutrition
Management
Cleanliness
Safeguarding
Value for Money
Review from C C (Mother of Child) published on 24 April 2026 Submitted via Website
Overall Experience

My son has been at Handkerchief since September 2025 amd he's loving every minute of every day that he attends. The staff always keep me up to date on his well being and he's always happy to run to them at drop off, even after a week off sick, he runs in to warm welcome arms and tell the staff he missed them. My child is well looked after, happy and safe at Handkerchief.

Reply from Angie Russell, Customer Care Partner at Handkerchief Day Nursery
Thank you so much for your kind words about Handkerchief Nursery. Its truly lovely to hear how much your son is enjoying his time with us and that he feels so happy and secure in our care.

Were especially pleased to hear how confident and excited he is at drop-offeven after time away, that warm...  

Facilities / Outside Space
Learning
Resources / Equipment / ICT
Care
Activities
Staff
Food / Nutrition
Management
Cleanliness
Safeguarding
Value for Money
Review from P G (Mother of Child) published on 21 April 2026 Submitted via Website
Overall Experience

Our daughter joined Handkerchief in September 2025, she is currently in the Baby room and settled so quickly. The staff in the whole nursery are so welcoming and caring. The developments our daughter has achieved already is amazing and it's thanks to the wonderful team caring for her. Knowing our daughter will be spending the first 4 years of her life here getting the best possible start in her education makes us very happy. We recommend Handkerchief to anyone looking for a nursery where their child can shine!

Reply from Angie Russell, Customer Care Partner at Handkerchief Day Nursery

Thank you so much for your thoughtful and heartfelt review. Were absolutely delighted to hear how well your daughter has settled into the Baby Room and that shes already thriving. It means so much to our team to know that their care and dedication are making a positive difference in her...  

Facilities / Outside Space
Learning
Resources / Equipment / ICT
Care
Activities
Staff
Food / Nutrition
Management
Cleanliness
Safeguarding
Value for Money
Review from Laura C (Mother of Child) published on 21 April 2026 Submitted via Website
Overall Experience
Our daughter adores attending this nursery. The staff are so warm and welcoming to her and she's made real bonds with both staff and other children. She's moved up from the baby room, to the Tweenies room and is currently in Toddlers 1. All rooms have been great with her. They have lovely facilities, amazing outdoor spaces and lots of creative play. She also loves the Jo Jingles class that comes every other Tuesday.

Would recommend!

Reply from Jennifer OShea, Customer Care Manager at Handkerchief Day Nursery

Thank you for your lovely feedback. We're so pleased to hear how much your daughter enjoys coming to nursery and that she's built such strong bonds with both staff and her friends. It's wonderful to know her transitions through the rooms have been positive and that she's enjoying the facilities, outdoor spaces, and creative activities.

Facilities / Outside Space
Learning
Resources / Equipment / ICT
Care
Activities
Staff
Food / Nutrition
Management
Cleanliness
Safeguarding
Value for Money
Review from R L (Father of Child) published on 21 April 2026 Submitted via Website
Overall Experience

My child really enjoys going to Handkerchief nursery. They love the outdoor playing spaces and forest school activities in particular. The staff are all friendly and there are some really lovely, caring people working there. The food menu is varied, healthy and interesting. The children learn about a range of topics and get to do lots of drawing. We can really see progression in being able to draw shapes and hold a pen correctly. Most days she loves it so much she doesn't want to come home.

Reply from Jennifer OShea, Customer Care Manager at Handkerchief Day Nursery

Thank you so much for your wonderful feedback. We're delighted to hear how much your child enjoys their time at Handkerchief, especially the outdoor spaces and forest school activities. It's lovely to know that our team's care, as well as the varied menu and learning experiences, are making a positive impact.

Facilities / Outside Space
Learning
Resources / Equipment / ICT
Care
Activities
Staff
Food / Nutrition
Management
Cleanliness
Safeguarding
Value for Money
Review from Lauren W (Mother of Child) published on 21 April 2026 Submitted via Website
Overall Experience

My son has spent time in each room from Babies, Tweenies and now Toddlers and our experience has been so positive. The staff show genuine care and interest in his welfare and interests. When he's struggled settling in they have even borrowed a toy from another room because they know that he likes it. It's so reassuring as a parent to know that your child is thriving and settled away from home. Nursery is amazing for little ones and I'd have no hesitation in recommending Handkerchief.

Reply from Jennifer OShea, Customer Care Manager at Handkerchief Day Nursery
Thank you for your lovely feedback. We're so pleased your son has had a positive experience across all rooms and is happy and settled with us.

It's wonderful to hear that the team's care and attention to his interests, especially during transitions, has made a difference.

Facilities / Outside Space
Learning
Resources / Equipment / ICT
Care
Activities
Staff
Food / Nutrition
Management
Cleanliness
Safeguarding
Value for Money
Review from B N (Mother of Child) published on 21 April 2026 Submitted via Website
Overall Experience
My son started here when he turned one and I cannot fault the care attention all the staff have given him to settle in. He was very unsettled with the transition to nursery and every single staff member has ensured he has happy and content.

The facilities and opportunities he has had since he started have been amazing and he absolutely loves coming here.

Reply from Angie Russell, Customer Care Partner at Handkerchief Day Nursery

Thank you so much for sharing your experience. We understand how big the transition into nursery can be, so its incredibly rewarding to hear that your son now feels happy and settled with us. Our team is dedicated to providing a nurturing and supportive environment for every child, and its...  

Facilities / Outside Space
Learning
Resources / Equipment / ICT
Care
Activities
Staff
Food / Nutrition
Management
Cleanliness
Safeguarding
Value for Money
Review from Sian M (Mother of Child) published on 21 April 2026 Submitted via Website
Overall Experience

I love this place, my daughter is happy and all the staff are lovely and I feel confident my daughter is having the best care and she loves it! Would highly recommend if anyone is thinking of sending their child here.

Reply from Angie Russell, Customer Care Partner at Handkerchief Day Nursery

Thank you so much for your kind words and recommendation! It means a lot to us to hear that your daughter is happy and enjoying her time here. Our team works hard to create a caring and supportive environment, so its wonderful to know you feel confident in the care we provide. Were so glad to have you and your daughter as part of our community!

Facilities / Outside Space
Learning
Resources / Equipment / ICT
Care
Activities
Staff
Food / Nutrition
Management
Cleanliness
Safeguarding
Value for Money

Child Vacancies

Please contact us for latest vacancies.

News (0) & Events (0)

News

There are no news items for Handkerchief Day Nursery.

Upcoming Events

There are no upcoming events for Handkerchief Day Nursery.

Awards / Recognitions (3)

Meet the Team (1)

Julie Stamps Job Title: Nursery Manager Joined: 2025
Julie Stamps

I have built a diverse and extensive career in the early years of education, including 16 years leading a preschool within a school setting. My experience also encompasses managing private day nurseries, leading individual rooms, and working as a nanny, giving me a well-rounded understanding of childcare across different environments. 

I hold a BA (Hons) in Education, alongside the NNEB qualification. I am committed to fostering a supportive and nurturing environment for everyone I work with, including children, practitioners, parents, and families. Guided by my Christian values, I take a compassionate and collaborative approach to my work. I adopt a holistic perspective on childcare and firmly believe that all children can thrive and achieve when provided with the right environment and support.

I joined Handkerchief in September 2025, and I love it here because there is so much support. Basically, I just love to make a difference to the lives of the people I encounter.

Frequently Asked Questions about Handkerchief Day Nursery

What is the Age Range of Children that Handkerchief Day Nursery accepts?

Handkerchief Day Nursery accepts Children aged from 0 years 3 months to 5 years 0 months.

What Days & Hours is Handkerchief Day Nursery Open?

Handkerchief Day Nursery is open: 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.

How many Children does Handkerchief Day Nursery have capacity for?

Handkerchief Day Nursery has capacity for a total of 110 Children.

How far is Handkerchief Day Nursery to the centre of Derby?

10.1 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 Handkerchief Day Nursery to verify any information. View our terms and conditions. Handkerchief Day Nursery has an Enhanced Service - more info.