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 C H (Mother of Child) published on 7 April 2026 Submitted via Website
Overall Experience

I have my two girls in the nursery, both have been through from babies and the eldest about to move to preschool. Staff are so lovely and really care about my girls. I love hearing at the dinner table what they have done. As well as how excited they are to tell me and show me things they have made/drawn.

Reply from Dawn Baker, Customer Experience at Handkerchief Day Nursery
Thank you so much for your lovely review. It's truly special to have been part of both of your girls' journeys from babies through to preschool.

We're so pleased to hear how much they enjoy their time with us and how excited they are to share their day, creations, and experiences with you-that's exactly what we hope for every child.

Facilities / Outside Space
Learning
Resources / Equipment / ICT
Care
Activities
Staff
Food / Nutrition
Management
Cleanliness
Safeguarding
Value for Money
Review from Chris M (Father of Child) published on 7 April 2026 Submitted via Website
Overall Experience

After changing local nurseries, we couldn't have hoped for a smoother transition. The move has been fantastic for my son. The staff are wonderful, and the communication and feedback have been excellent throughout. He settled in quickly, feels completely comfortable in the environment, and now genuinely looks forward to going.

Reply from Dawn Baker, Customer Experience at Handkerchief Day Nursery

Thank you so much for sharing your experience. We're delighted to hear that the transition to our nursery has been such a smooth and positive one for both you and your son. It's wonderful to know that he has settled in so quickly, feels comfortable in his environment, and looks forward to coming...  

Facilities / Outside Space
Learning
Resources / Equipment / ICT
Care
Activities
Staff
Food / Nutrition
Management
Cleanliness
Safeguarding
Value for Money
Review from M H (Father of Child) published on 7 April 2026 Submitted via Website
Overall Experience

Following the move of our daughter to Handkerchief we can only say positive things about the staff and the facilities

We were nervous as all parents can be with the move but the staff really couldn't have been better, they put our mind at ease and our daughter is thriving in the amazing environment they provide

We really can't recommend the nursery highly enough to do them justice and we're forever grateful to the team there.

Reply from Dawn Baker, Customer Experience at Handkerchief Day Nursery
Thank you so much for your kind and thoughtful review. We completely understand how nerve-wracking changing nurseries can be, so it's wonderful to hear that our team were able to put you at ease and support both you and your daughter through the transition.

We're delighted that she is thriving and...  

Facilities / Outside Space
Learning
Resources / Equipment / ICT
Care
Activities
Staff
Food / Nutrition
Management
Cleanliness
Safeguarding
Value for Money
Review from C B (Mother of Child) published on 18 December 2025 Submitted via Website
Overall Experience

My son is so well looked after here - he's happy, healthy and thriving. He runs in at drop-off without even looking back, which says it all. We're really happy with the care and the team. The only thing that would make it even better is a few more pictures during the day, because I love to see what he's up to. Overall, we couldn't recommend it more.

Reply from Jennifer OShea, Customer Experience Team Leader at Handkerchief Day Nursery

Thank you for your lovely feedback. We're so pleased to hear your son is happy, thriving, and settling in so confidently at drop-off. It's great to know you're happy with the care and the team.

Facilities / Outside Space
Learning
Resources / Equipment / ICT
Care
Activities
Staff
Food / Nutrition
Management
Cleanliness
Safeguarding
Value for Money
Review from Amelia B (Mother of Child) published on 1 December 2025 Submitted via Website
Overall Experience
Can't fault Handkerchief Day Nursery! My daughter was there from babies right through to pre school she is now turning 11 and it was the best then so there was no doubt in my mind when I had my son 8.5 years on that he would go there too. I think it says something when some of the staff are still there all these years on! They are all so friendly and loving, they go out there way to give me a full handover when I pick up. My son absolutely loves it! He has developed so early with his speech and funny character!! His favourite day being Tuesday when and entertainer goes and now he is starting Forest School which is just the best for his learning and development and getting all that fresh air!
Every time he moves up a room I feel nervous but they do the transitions so well and my son has never been upset or worried, just excited and the bond he builds with the team in each room is so wonderful to see!!

All in all a positive experience that has lasted years!! Thank you everyone xx

Reply from Jennifer OShea, Customer Experience Team Leader at Handkerchief Day Nursery

Thank you for your lovely review. We're pleased to hear that both your children have had positive experiences with us over the years. It's great to know our long-standing team, smooth room transitions, and activities such as weekly entertainment and Forest School have supported your son's development and enjoyment.

Facilities / Outside Space
Learning
Resources / Equipment / ICT
Care
Activities
Staff
Food / Nutrition
Management
Cleanliness
Safeguarding
Value for Money
Review from Becca N (Mother of Child) published on 25 November 2025 Submitted via Website
Overall Experience

Daughter is in the tweenies room and absolutely loves it! The staff take wonderful care of her, offering fun, engaging activities, lots of support & encouragement for developmental growth, and tasty, nutritional meals.

The center is well-organized, clean, and welcoming and the outdoor play space is wonderful!

Management is very pleasant and communicative.

We have zero complaints - it's a fantastic daycare center!

Reply from Jennifer OShea, Customer Experience Team Leader at Handkerchief Day Nursery

Thank you for your positive feedback. We're glad to hear your daughter is enjoying her time in the Tweenies room and benefiting from the activities, support, and meals provided. We also appreciate your comments on the environment, outdoor space, and communication from the team

Facilities / Outside Space
Learning
Resources / Equipment / ICT
Care
Activities
Staff
Food / Nutrition
Management
Cleanliness
Safeguarding
Value for Money
Review from H S (Mother of Child) published on 25 November 2025 Submitted via Website
Overall Experience
Handkerchief Nursery have been truly amazing since our son started in May.
We were incredibly impressed with the process of settling our son in, offering as many settling in sessions needed for him to feel comfortable.
Due to a medical condition and ongoing tests, we have a personal treatment plan which the team have remained diligent with the whole way through.
There is absolutely no doubt that everyone genuinely cares.
The nursery is our sons favourite place, he loves socialising with the other children as well as adults, painting, outside play, food, and is also given the time and space to play independently.
The team are always warm and welcoming and are so informative with updates throughout the day, both on the app and in person on pick up.
Parents evening offered is in depth, with personal feedback and time to discuss any questions or concerns.

The team have always respected our schedule around feeding and naps etc, and have always been reactive and supportive with any change.

Reply from Jennifer OShea, Customer Experience Team Leader at Handkerchief Day Nursery

Thank you for sharing your feedback. We're pleased to hear that the settling-in process, communication, and support around your son's routine and medical plan have met your expectations. It's great to know he enjoys his time at the nursery and engages well with the activities provided. We appreciate your comments and will continue working to maintain a positive experience for all families.

Facilities / Outside Space
Learning
Resources / Equipment / ICT
Care
Activities
Staff
Food / Nutrition
Management
Cleanliness
Safeguarding
Value for Money
Review from Liz L (Mother of Child) published on 21 June 2019 Submitted via Website
Overall Experience

Great family feel nursery - my daughter loves it. All staff are so kind and caring. The food is excellent and varied and the room and outdoor space is great.

Facilities / Outside Space
Learning
Resources / Equipment / ICT
Care
Activities
Staff
Food / Nutrition
Management
Cleanliness
Safeguarding
Value for Money
Review from Sarah P (Mother of Child) published on 19 June 2019 Submitted via Website
Overall Experience

The nursery staff provide excellent care and support to both the children and the parents. They are never too busy to update parents or answer questions.

Your outdoor space is amazing and imaginative with something for all tastes and interests. Forest School is a big hit in our family and it is evident that the staff put a lot of thought into everything.

Well done to those staff who work within the preschool and baby room.

Facilities / Outside Space
Learning
Resources / Equipment / ICT
Care
Activities
Staff
Food / Nutrition
Management
Cleanliness
Safeguarding
Value for Money
Review from Gemma W (Mother of Child) published on 7 June 2019 Submitted via Website
Overall Experience
The nursery's support has been outstanding and my daughter has love every minute! So thank you.

She's ready now for school and that's thanks to your help.

Facilities / Outside Space
Learning
Resources / Equipment / ICT
Care
Activities
Staff
Food / Nutrition
Management
Cleanliness
Safeguarding
Value for Money
Review from Jim D (Father of Child) published on 5 June 2019 Submitted via Website
Overall Experience
From the minute we visited Handkerchief we knew this was the nursery for our boy.
Overall appearance, features, rooms, areas, facilities and especially the staff really stood out and still do on a daily basis.
We love the ethos of Handkerchief and the efforts everybody goes to maintain it, great variety of fresh fruit and cooked food on a daily basis, utilising natural, rustic and effective equipment to stimulate all of the children and modern technology to record, report and keep the parents updated regularly.

Every member of Handkerchief really is a credit to it in every role they play. Top marks!

Facilities / Outside Space
Learning
Resources / Equipment / ICT
Care
Activities
Staff
Food / Nutrition
Management
Cleanliness
Safeguarding
Value for Money
Review from M H (Mother of Child) published on 5 June 2019 Submitted via Website
Overall Experience

We fell in love with the nursery from the first visit to look around and it hasn’t disappointed. We love everything about the place and the philosophy and vision trickles through to every detail. The staff are wonderful, the delivery is consistent. I couldn’t ask for more!

Facilities / Outside Space
Learning
Resources / Equipment / ICT
Care
Activities
Staff
Food / Nutrition
Management
Cleanliness
Safeguarding
Value for Money
Review from Katie K (Mother of Child) published on 5 June 2019 Submitted via Website
Overall Experience
Handkerchief is a lovely nursery.
Both my daughters attend here. They both have special dietary and heath conditions. Handkerchief have always kept up to date with their health conditions, informing all staff who keep my daughters safe. They are able to cater and carefully plan around my children to ensure they’re involved in all activities. My eldest loves forest school. She enjoys looking after the animals, climbing the trees and exploring the workshop area. My youngest daughter started in the Spring and settled well with the staff members. Despite her separation anxiety, the staff are able to help keep her calm at drop off times.
The staff are all well trained and treat each child with the love, care and attention they all need.

They give me great confidence knowing my children are safe and happy.

Facilities / Outside Space
Learning
Resources / Equipment / ICT
Care
Activities
Staff
Food / Nutrition
Management
Cleanliness
Safeguarding
Value for Money
Review from Jan (Mother of Child) published on 5 June 2019 Submitted via Website
Overall Experience

I couldn't sleep the night before my daughter started at Handkerchief because I was just so excited for her to start there. Luckily my excitement has continued as she has such a lovely time at every session. The staff, the surroundings, the energy, the other pupils just everything is brilliant and what you want from your child's nursery.

Facilities / Outside Space
Learning
Resources / Equipment / ICT
Care
Activities
Staff
Food / Nutrition
Management
Cleanliness
Safeguarding
Value for Money
Review from Julie (Mother of Child) published on 5 June 2019 Submitted via Website
Overall Experience
The staff at Handkerchiefs are amazing and so lovely with the children. My little girl started at seven months in the baby room and is now in the Tweenie room so have met staff in both rooms. My girl settled very quickly in both rooms and it’s reassuring I can leave her and she will have a lovely day.

It’s great that everything is included and the meals are nice and healthy too.

Facilities / Outside Space
Learning
Resources / Equipment / ICT
Care
Activities
Staff
Food / Nutrition
Management
Cleanliness
Safeguarding
Value for Money
Review from Erin D (Mother of Child) published on 5 June 2019 Submitted via Website
Overall Experience
Our daughter has LOVED going to Handkerchief’s from the very first day she started.
The staff in the Tweenies room are lovely and they think up extremely creative activities for the children to do which I could never replicate at home.

Would recommend to anyone.

Facilities / Outside Space
Learning
Resources / Equipment / ICT
Care
Activities
Staff
Food / Nutrition
Management
Cleanliness
Safeguarding
Value for Money
Review from Catherine O (Mother of Child) published on 28 May 2019 Submitted via Postal Card
Overall Experience
From the moment we visited Handkerchief Day Nursery we knew it was the one.

Our son is very happy here and developing well. The staff are fantastic and the facilities are outstanding!

Facilities / Outside Space
Learning
Resources / Equipment / ICT
Care
Activities
Staff
Food / Nutrition
Management
Cleanliness
Safeguarding
Value for Money
Review from Lee H (Father of Child) published on 1 February 2019 Submitted via Website
Overall Experience

You will not find another nursery where the word excellent can be applied to every aspect of it. From the office team, through to the nursery facilities and all the nursery staff right down to its very ethos Handkerchief shines out above all others.

We looked at 9 separate nurseries before we decided on Handkerchief Nursery and I cannot convey succinctly enough just how pleased and impressed we have been. They make you feel like you are part of one big family, where nothing is too much trouble and your parenting is their parenting, and this can be seen in just how happy our little boy is with them.

The facilities and approach the nursery has is without doubt leading the way in modern childcare, providing brilliant enrichment, enhancing our little one's development and encouraging him to explore, interact and grow. The Nursery Manager, Office Manager and ALL the team in the baby room are to be commended on a truly brilliant job.

This nursery should be your only choice.

Facilities / Outside Space
Learning
Resources / Equipment / ICT
Care
Activities
Staff
Food / Nutrition
Management
Cleanliness
Safeguarding
Value for Money
Review from Ayaka M (Mother of Child) published on 19 January 2018 Submitted via Website
Overall Experience

My son loves going to nursery because all staff are lovely and friendly. No plastic toys is another good point. There is a huge garden right next to the baby room and babies can feel nature all the time.

Facilities / Outside Space
Learning
Resources / Equipment / ICT
Care
Activities
Staff
Food / Nutrition
Management
Cleanliness
Safeguarding
Value for Money
Review from Chris T (Father of Child) published on 19 January 2018 Submitted via Website
Overall Experience

My daughter has been attending this nursery now for 4 months, at the start she would not settle when dropping her off but now loves attending and waves us off. This is down to the baby team being patient and helping her settle in. They are all very helpful and clearly caring of the children they have in their care. We receive detailed events of her day which always seem jam packed with fun and learning activities along with random emails with pictures during the day of what she is up to.

Our daughter loves attending and, knowing this, we enjoy sending her there.

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.

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.