Little Owls Day Nursery

1-1a First Avenue, Carlton, Nottingham NG4 1PH
Review Us
9.9 44 Reviews
  • Little Owls Day Nursery, Nottingham
At Little Owls, the team understands that choosing the right nursery is one of the most important decisions a family can make—and they are committed to making that choice simple and reassuring. From the moment families step inside, they are welcomed into a warm and friendly atmosphere where every child is valued and celebrated for who they are. Partnerships with parents are genuine, open, and family-focused, ensuring everyone feels included in each child’s learning journey.

Little Owls offers more than childcare; it provides a nurturing foundation for life. Its bespoke, EYFS-aligned curriculum blends creativity with purposeful learning to support every aspect of each child’s development. Alongside a dedicated Sports Coach who inspires healthy habits and confidence, children also benefit from a specialist Music and Drama Teacher who brings the magic of performance, rhythm, and imagination into everyday learning. Each nursery maintains its own unique charm while benefiting from the training, expertise, and high-quality resources of the wider group.

Individuality sits at the heart of Little Owls. Every child’s achievements are celebrated, and their unique potential is championed. Differences in culture, experience, and ways of thinking are embraced to deepen understanding and broaden perspectives. Through strong links with the local community and meaningful engagement with the world around them, children learn to become compassionate and confident learners.

Supported by highly qualified and experienced staff, with additional guidance from experts across the wider group, Little Owls provides a stable and inspiring environment where every child can grow into a happy, independent, and capable young learner.

Funding & Fees

8.00am– 6:00pm: £55.00
8:00am – 1:00pm: £42.50
9:00am – 4:30pm: £51.00
1:00pm – 6:00pm: £42.50
7:30am – 8:00am: £5.92

Meal Packs, Consumables and Extra-Curricular charges are not included in the above prices but will depend on the type of childcare you access.

Contact Little Owls Day Nursery to get a personalised quote.

Contact Little Owls Day Nursery to get a personalised quote.

Type of Service

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

Group/Owner

Person in Charge

  • Lisa Olejarz (Manager)

Number of Childcare Staff

  • 18

Total Places for Children

  • 83

Age Range

  • from 0 years 1 months
  • to 5 years 0 months

Opening Times

  • Monday 07:30-18:00
    Tuesday 07:30-18:00
    Wednesday 07:30-18:00
    Thursday 07:30-18:00
    Friday 07:30-18:00

When Closed

  • Bank Holidays & Christmas
9.9

Little Owls Day Nursery has a Review Score of 9.9 (9.885) out of 10, based on 43 reviews in the last 2 years.
Over all time Little Owls Day Nursery has 44 reviews.

Overall Experience
  • 43
  • 1
  • 0
  • 0
  • 0
Date Published
  • 44
  • 42
  • 43
  • 43
  • 1
Reviewer Connection to Little Owls Day Nursery
  • 38
  • 5
  • 1
Total of 44, showing 21-40
Review from A J (Mother of Child) published on 18 February 2026 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
My little one started in September last year and the nursery has been welcoming and done their very best to help him settle in. He now loves going and looks forward to getting through the gates so he can see everyone.
  • Facilities / Outside Space
  • Learning
  • Resources / Equipment / ICT
  • Care
  • Activities
  • Staff
  • Food / Nutrition
  • Management
  • Cleanliness
  • Safeguarding
  • Value for Money
Review from Nicola M (Mother of Child) published on 18 February 2026 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
We couldn't be happier with this nursery. Our son attended here years ago and is now 14, and it's amazing to see many of the same familiar staff still there as our daughter now attends. That consistency says so much about how special this place is.
From the very beginning, the team have been warm,
caring, and attentive. They create a safe, nurturing environment where children are encouraged to learn, explore, and grow at their own pace. The activities are always fun and thoughtful, supporting development while making every day exciting.
Communication with parents is excellent, and we always feel informed and reassured. The staff genuinely care about each child as an individual, and that personal touch makes all the difference. Our daughter is so happy going in each day, just like our son was.
We're incredibly grateful to have such a wonderful nursery and wouldn't hesitate to recommend it to any family.
  • Facilities / Outside Space
  • Learning
  • Resources / Equipment / ICT
  • Care
  • Activities
  • Staff
  • Food / Nutrition
  • Management
  • Cleanliness
  • Safeguarding
  • Value for Money
Review from A F (Mother of Child) published on 16 February 2026 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
My son has been going to this nursery for 6 months before he started primary school. He enjoyed every single day of it and has made special bonds with the staff and children there. We had no complaints and knew my son enjoyed being here since he was happy waking up in the mornings to attend his sessions
on time. My daughter who is 2 has recently joined in january and we can already see a change in her confidence and social skills building up due to the staff supporting her to do so. I would also say the staff are amazing each and every member of them always smiling, welcoming and if you dont understand anything they will explain it 1000 times and always help out. I would recommend anyone sending their children to this nursery since i have not faced any problem.
  • Facilities / Outside Space
  • Learning
  • Resources / Equipment / ICT
  • Care
  • Activities
  • Staff
  • Food / Nutrition
  • Management
  • Cleanliness
  • Safeguarding
  • Value for Money
Review from Katie S (Mother of Child) published on 16 February 2026 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
My son's been at this nursery now for two years and I do not have one bad thing to say.
Due to him not being able to tell me in detail how his days been going they are very informative of his activities he's been doing, how's he's getting on what food he's eaten everything! they have also been very
supportive on his SEN journey always go out there way to make sure me and my son are supported in every way they possible can do and always take extra steps in making my sons days go as smooth as possible, giving me information/strategies to help my son at home aswell as preschool so he doesn't struggle I could not fault this nursery at all.
  • Facilities / Outside Space
  • Learning
  • Resources / Equipment / ICT
  • Care
  • Activities
  • Staff
  • Food / Nutrition
  • Management
  • Cleanliness
  • Safeguarding
  • Value for Money
Review from Lisa R (Mother of Child) published on 12 February 2026 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
Great nursery, all the staff have been fantastic since the day my son started. So much care and kindness. Good facilities and good range of activities for the children. We are kept updated with the app with photos. My son also loves helping to look after the chickens they have there!
  • Facilities / Outside Space
  • Learning
  • Resources / Equipment / ICT
  • Care
  • Activities
  • Staff
  • Food / Nutrition
  • Management
  • Cleanliness
  • Safeguarding
  • Value for Money
Review from S K (Mother of Child) published on 12 February 2026 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
Highly recommended Little Owls,they are so amazing. They go above and beyond everyday for the children. My youngest attends here and they have been so supportive with his development needs. As they were for my eldest who still attends the holiday clubs the nursery provide during term times. Both boys
love going to Little Owls and have always been happy going in every morning. Fantastic team all of them.
  • Facilities / Outside Space
  • Learning
  • Resources / Equipment / ICT
  • Care
  • Activities
  • Staff
  • Food / Nutrition
  • Management
  • Cleanliness
  • Safeguarding
  • Value for Money
Review from Claire C (Mother of Child) published on 10 February 2026 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
We have been with Little Owls nursery for more than 11 years. Both of our children joined the baby room at around 11-12 months old and moved through the toddler room, pre-school, after-school club, and even the holiday club! They have always been well cared for and happy to attend. It is where they
met many of their closest friends. The staff are very caring and personable. A lovely nursery, that I would highly recommend.
  • Facilities / Outside Space
  • Learning
  • Resources / Equipment / ICT
  • Care
  • Activities
  • Staff
  • Food / Nutrition
  • Management
  • Cleanliness
  • Safeguarding
  • Value for Money
Review from Lisa H (Mother of Child) published on 10 February 2026 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
Both my sons have attended nursery and have used the holiday club. My son still currently attends full time. I couldn't be happier with the care and support he receives. Always keep me informed with everything and nothing is to much trouble. Very grateful to have such great care for my children. Would
recommend to anyone looking for childcare.
  • Facilities / Outside Space
  • Learning
  • Resources / Equipment / ICT
  • Care
  • Activities
  • Staff
  • Food / Nutrition
  • Management
  • Cleanliness
  • Safeguarding
  • Value for Money
Review from S C (Father of Child) published on 4 February 2026 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
Our daughter has been going to Little Owls now for almost two years. Not once have we had an issue. She looks forward to going every day and always enjoys it. The staff are great and our daughter has taken to a couple of them in particular who she's always excited to see. Can't fault the staff at all.
They're always professional and keep us up to date on our daughter's progression.
  • Facilities / Outside Space
  • Learning
  • Resources / Equipment / ICT
  • Care
  • Activities
  • Staff
  • Food / Nutrition
  • Management
  • Cleanliness
  • Safeguarding
  • Value for Money
Review from R B (Mother of Child) published on 3 February 2026 Submitted via Postal Card • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
Both my children have attended this nursery. The staff are all amazing. The nursery has a home from home feel to it. They offer a large range of extra activities such as yoga, music and movement classes and stay and play sessions. They give you regular updates and pictures via the app as well as ensuring
an update is given on collection. This is a fantastic nursery and ill be sad when my children leave.
  • Facilities / Outside Space
  • Learning
  • Resources / Equipment / ICT
  • Care
  • Activities
  • Staff
  • Food / Nutrition
  • Management
  • Cleanliness
  • Safeguarding
  • Value for Money
Review from Dean W (Father of Child) published on 26 January 2026 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
I recently visited Little Owls Day Nursery and came away genuinely impressed. From the moment I walked in, the nursery felt warm, welcoming, and very well organised.


The staff were friendly, professional, and clearly passionate about what they do. They took the time to talk me through the daily routines,

learning activities, and how they support each child's individual development. It was reassuring to see how attentive and caring they were with the children, who all seemed happy, settled, and engaged.


The facilities were clean, bright, and thoughtfully set up, with plenty of age-appropriate resources to encourage learning through play. I was particularly impressed with the focus on both educational development and emotional wellbeing, as well as the clear emphasis on safety and hygiene throughout the nursery.


Overall, Little Owls Day Nursery left a very positive impression

  • Facilities / Outside Space
  • Learning
  • Resources / Equipment / ICT
  • Care
  • Activities
  • Staff
  • Food / Nutrition
  • Management
  • Cleanliness
  • Safeguarding
  • Value for Money
Review from Melissa H (Mother of Child) published on 26 January 2026 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
I have 2 children that attend this nursery.


It is a lovely setting and feels more like a home style set up with the same staff members and consistency in the care.


The children go out into the local area for trips out and they have additional resources such as actual chickens!


I transferred

my oldest from a larger group of nurseries and I havent regretted my decision once.
  • Facilities / Outside Space
  • Learning
  • Resources / Equipment / ICT
  • Care
  • Activities
  • Staff
  • Food / Nutrition
  • Management
  • Cleanliness
  • Safeguarding
  • Value for Money
Review from Craig C (Father of Child) published on 26 January 2026 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
Both of children have attended Little Owls Day Nursery. We've loved the last seven years, the staff have always shown care and affection towards our kids. Lisa and Kia, are really easy to talk and deal with on the management side of things.


Carren and Debra are absolutely amazing and we honestly

can not say think you enough. We've always felt are children are cared for and looked after as if you was leaving them with family. I hope they don't ever lose that touch, as it sets them apart from the rest.
  • Facilities / Outside Space
  • Learning
  • Resources / Equipment / ICT
  • Care
  • Activities
  • Staff
  • Food / Nutrition
  • Management
  • Cleanliness
  • Safeguarding
  • Value for Money
Review from Karolina F (Mother of Child) published on 22 October 2025 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
My daughter started Little Owl when she was 10 months old stayed there until she started school. Staff in each group is dedicated, professional and caring, with the real passion for children development. Absolutely great place, various activities each week focusing on sport, art, learning and play.
Nursery is proud part of their community and shares those values with children. My daughter truly loved it!
  • Facilities / Outside Space
  • Learning
  • Resources / Equipment / ICT
  • Care
  • Activities
  • Staff
  • Food / Nutrition
  • Management
  • Cleanliness
  • Safeguarding
  • Value for Money
Review from Emily B (Mother of Child) published on 22 October 2025 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
My children have been going to Little Owls for nearly four years now, and I cannot fault anything about them. The staff are all fantastic - they're friendly, welcoming, have great communication and always go the extra mile, leaving me consistently reassured that the children are in a happy and safe
environment. In the summer the staff held a graduation ceremony for those that were leaving to start school, and they had thought of everything to make the day special for both the children and parents. The activities that Little Owls provides for the children at nursery (both in-house and extra-curricular) have been enjoyed by both my children and has been very beneficial for their development. Plus the children enjoy a home cooked meal each day, which I often smell during drop off, and it smells delicious! Overall I am extremely happy with everything about Little Owls and I think the value for money is great. I can't recommend them enough! Thank you to all at Little Owls!
  • Facilities / Outside Space
  • Learning
  • Resources / Equipment / ICT
  • Care
  • Activities
  • Staff
  • Food / Nutrition
  • Management
  • Cleanliness
  • Safeguarding
  • Value for Money
Review from M R (Mother of Child) published on 16 October 2025 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
We are really happy with Little Owls. Our daughter started at 10 months and is now in preschool.
She is always talking about the staff and has built up great relationships with her key workers in each room.
It's nice to have the offer of stay and plays, extra circular visits and the chance to take
part in holiday parties.
We get regular updates on the app with photos of what her room is doing, which is always something different.
Potty training, her language and motor skills have come on leaps and bounds as doing this alongside other children with great support from staff.
The staff are kind and helpful and are always attentive to all the children, even when they move up to the next room. Our daughter loves going to nursery and we are so pleased we chose Little Owls!
  • Facilities / Outside Space
  • Learning
  • Resources / Equipment / ICT
  • Care
  • Activities
  • Staff
  • Food / Nutrition
  • Management
  • Cleanliness
  • Safeguarding
  • Value for Money
Review from Sharnie W (Mother of Child) published on 16 October 2025 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
I've had 2 children pass through little owls nursery over the past 5 years.
During our time at the nursery my family had a life changing event, during this time the manager Lisa and staff Kia, Niamh, Beth, Jackie, Beth, Karen and Deborah went above and beyond for my family during one of the most difficult
times. The support they offered both my children and myself will never be forgotten, they became family!
Both of my children thrived while being there. I will never have enough words to thank them. I recommend them 1000% to anyone wanting to send their children here.
Thank you Lisa for everything <3
  • Facilities / Outside Space
  • Learning
  • Resources / Equipment / ICT
  • Care
  • Activities
  • Staff
  • Food / Nutrition
  • Management
  • Cleanliness
  • Safeguarding
  • Value for Money
Review from A C (Mother of Child) published on 15 October 2025 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 4.0 out of 5
We joined Little Owls recently and I couldn't be more satisfied. All the people there is really nice and caring. At the beginning I was worried about my baby's reaction, but the ladies always take good are of my son, and now he is well adjusted. Even when he has a moment, they are always ready for comfort
and cuddles.
  • Facilities / Outside Space
  • Learning
  • Resources / Equipment / ICT
  • Care
  • Activities
  • Staff
  • Food / Nutrition
  • Management
  • Cleanliness
  • Safeguarding
  • Value for Money
Review from Nolan S (Father of Child) published on 15 October 2025 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
My daughter has been attending Little Owls for over 3 years now and loves it. The staff are amazing and work so hard to make sure each child is happy in their setting. The renovations to the out door space has been fantastic, so much so that our daughter doesn't want to leave at pick up time. We will
certainly be using the school club once she starts school :-)
  • Facilities / Outside Space
  • Learning
  • Resources / Equipment / ICT
  • Care
  • Activities
  • Staff
  • Food / Nutrition
  • Management
  • Cleanliness
  • Safeguarding
  • Value for Money
Review from A A (Mother of Child) published on 14 October 2025 Submitted via Postal Card • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
We've had such a positive experience with this nursery. The staff are incredibly friendly and welcoming, and they create a warm, safe environment for the kids. My daughter is always learning new things, and it's wonderful to see her develop new skills and confidence each week. The team is very caring
and attentive, not only with the kids but also in keeping parents informed and involved. I feel reassured knowing she's in such good hands. Highly recommend!
  • Facilities / Outside Space
  • Learning
  • Resources / Equipment / ICT
  • Care
  • Activities
  • Staff
  • Food / Nutrition
  • Management
  • Cleanliness
  • Safeguarding
  • Value for Money
Current Review Score: 9.9 (9.885)

Overview of Review Score

The Review Score of 9.9 (9.885) out of 10 for Little Owls Day Nursery 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 43 Reviews in the last 24 months.
  2. The score for the number of positive Reviews is 5.0 out of 5 from 43 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 4.885 for Little Owls Day Nursery is calculated as follows: ( (460 Excellents x 5) + (51 Goods x 4) + (4 Satisfactorys x 3) ) ÷ 515 Ratings = 4.885
  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 Little Owls Day Nursery is based on 43 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 83 number of registered child places is 16.6, which has been reached with 43 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.

Loading

Loading

Awards / Recognitions (0)

Loading...

Meet the Team (12)

Lisa

Lisa Olejarz

Job Title: Nursery Manager Joined: 2012

I have worked at Little Owls for 13 years. I started my childcare career as an apprentice and am in the manager role. I have worked with all ages of children from the baby room up to the preschool room. I am passionate about watching children learn and develop. I am also the nursery Safeguard Lead.

No image found

Kia Collier

Job Title: Deputy Manager and SENDCO Lead Joined: 2016

I started working at Little Owls in 2016 as a apprentice and am now the nursery deputy manager and the SENDCO lead.

Niamh

Niamh Kirk

Job Title: Level 3 Nursery Practitioner Joined: 2019

I started working at Little Owls in 2019 as a apprentice, I am now the Third in Charge and the Baby Room Leader.
In my spare time I enjoy reading and watching TV.

Bethany

Bethany Sisson

Job Title: Level 2 Nursery Practitioner Joined: 2023

I have worked at Little Owls for the past 2 years, I started as a nursery apprentice and am now qualified as a Level 2. I currently work in the baby room.
My biggest passion is all things Disney.

Emine

Emine Kahraman

Job Title: Nursery Apprentice Joined: 2025

I have worked at Little Owls for the past 6 months and am currently working towards my Level 2. I work in the baby room but have experience in all rooms.

No image found

Jackie Pedwell

Job Title: Level 5 Nursery Practioner Joined: 2012

I have worked at Little Owls since 2012 and currently work in the Toddler Room but have experience working with all age groups of children.

No image found

Julia

Job Title: Level 2 Nursery Practitioner Joined: 2024

I started working at Little Owls in 2024, I am a Level 2 qualified and work in the Toddler Room.

Karen

Karen Smith

Job Title: Level 3 Nursery Practitioner Joined: 2004

I began working at Little Owls in 2004. I am a Level 3 qualified and currently work in the Preschool room but I have experience working in all rooms of the nursery.

No image found

Deborah Fowler

Job Title: Level 3 Nursery Practitioner Joined: 2007

I started working at Little Owls in 2007 and currently work in the Preschool Room. I started as a nursery apprentice and completed my qualification as a Level 3.

No image found

Bethany Ellis

Job Title: Level 3 Nursery Practitioner Joined: 2020

I completed my Level 3 at Little Owls in 2020. I work in the Preschool room but have experience working with all ages of children.

Lily

Lily Rieley

Job Title: Level 2 Nursery Practitioner Joined: 2024

I started working at the nursery in 2019 as a Level 2 practitioner and am currently working towards my Level 3 qualification. I have experience working in the Preschool Room and am now working in the Baby room

No image found

Agnieszka Matkowska

Job Title: Level 2 Nursery Practitioner

I am a Level 2 Nursery Practitioner and currently work in the nursery's Breakfast and Afterschool Club.

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