Little Pioneers Nursery & Pre-School, Tavistock

Tavistock House, Borough Road, Sunderland SR1 1PG
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9.7 110 Reviews
  • Little Pioneers Nursery & Pre-School, Tavistock, Sunderland
Ofsted rating for Tavistock Nursery is Good (November 2023)

At Little Pioneers Tavistock, they like to consider themselves a home from home for their children. They provide a happy and vibrant learning environment and focus equally on all areas of learning.

Little Pioneers Tavistock are big on happy children. They have regular visits to a local care home, focus on taking care of each other and the world and have areas for growing food (and eating it).

The nursery team are big on safety which is why ALL staff are paediatric first aid trained. They use 5 Little Pioneers to help share core values with children from making a difference in the world to expressing their feelings.

They use an app called ParentZone which keeps parents and carers informed about life at nursery days and includes photos from their day, meals eaten and even toilet training progress!

Little Pioneers Tavistock believe in the importance of development in the early years of your child's life. Their qualified Early Years Practitioners have created an environment designed to support their development in every way.
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Type of Service

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

Group/Owner

Person in Charge

  • Lisa Robertson (Manager)

Number of Childcare Staff

  • 28

Total Places for Children

  • 136

Age Range

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

Funding & Fees

  • (0-2) Full Day £68.50/ Short Day £65.00 / School Day £51.25 / Half Day £39.00


    (2-3) Full day £65.25 / Short Day £62.25 / School Day £49.00 / Half Day £37.25


    (3-5) Full day £58.75 / Short Day £55.75 / School Day £44.00 /Half Day £33.50

  • Full day 7.30am-6.30pm
    Short Day 8am-6pm
    School Day 9am-3pm
    Half Day 7.30am-1pm/1pm-6.30pm


    Short Morning (9am-12) and Short Afternoon (1pm-4pm) also offered


    Government Funding accepted

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

Parking

  • Drop-Off Bays available

Little Pioneers Nursery & Pre-School, Tavistock Reviews (110)

9.7

Little Pioneers Nursery & Pre-School, Tavistock has a Review Score of 9.7 (9.671) out of 10, based on 25 reviews in the last 2 years.
Over all time Little Pioneers Nursery & Pre-School, Tavistock has 110 reviews.

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Reviewer Connection to Little Pioneers Nursery & Pre-School, Tavistock
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Review from Helen S (Mother of Child) published on 20 March 2019 Submitted via Postal Card • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
I cannot say enough good positive things about Tavistock.
They have become like family to me and my 2 boys.
My 2 boys started Tavistock at 9 months and both have stayed until school.
The love, care and support they have is so lovely to see and I never worry while I am at work.
The extra activities
such as yoga, football and Spanish are a hit.
Always something new each week to be done. Thank you.
Reply from Gemma Baldassarra at Little Pioneers Nursery & Pre-School, Tavistock
Thank you for your lovely review Helen. Both your boys have been a pleasure to look after, we will miss seeing you all when your youngest leaves for school in September. We are so glad that our extra…read more
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Review from Katie T (Mother of Child) published on 20 March 2019 Submitted via Postal Card • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
I have only been using the nursery since January and I'm thoroughly impressed.
All the girls are extremely nice and make me feel like my daughter is well looked after.
I love seeing what she has been up to during the day in her booklet.
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Review from Daniela M (Mother of Child) published on 13 March 2019 Submitted via Postal Card • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
My daughter has been attending Tavistock Nursery since October 2018. She has settled in extremely well due to the caring nature of the staff in her room.
He keyworkers are very welcome and approachable. We are informed regularly of how she is doing through a daily diary.
We have also had 2 reviews
about the progress she is making in her development.
Reply from Laura Forbes at Little Pioneers Nursery & Pre-School, Tavistock
It is so lovely to hear that our staff have made both you and your child welcome here at Tavistock. By using our daily diaries and doing parents evenings we are able to communicate with parents about…read more
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Review from Leanne M (Mother of Child) published on 23 August 2018 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
From walking through the door on my first visit to look around the nursery to the day my daughter left the staff were fantastic and very caring and helpful. My daughter started here when she was 8 months old and has recently left to start school in September. The commitment the staff have put in to
help my daughter achieve everything she has has been excellent and second to none, I couldn’t have asked for anything more in every room she has been in. I could not have chosen a better nursery for my child and I always felt happy leaving her with the wonderful staff. I will always recommend this nursery to family and friends. It is like being part of a family and myself and my daughter will definitely miss coming here.
Reply from Gillian Hopkins at Little Pioneers Nursery & Pre-School, Tavistock
Dear Leanne

Thank you so much for taking the time to post a review. It has been an absolute pleasure looking after your little girl, we are going to miss her immensely now that she is off to…read more
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Review from Gina R (Mother of Child) published on 13 August 2018 Submitted via Postal Card • Report
Overall Experience 4.0 out of 5
My little girl enjoys coming to nursery. Staff have built an amazing relationship with her and are aware of her individual needs. They work alongside parents to ensure the development of the 'whole child', not just academic needs. My daughter is now confident and independent from being at Tavistock
House Day Nursery.
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Review from Lee B (Father of Child) published on 9 August 2018 Submitted via Postal Card • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
Overall quality of nursery is very good, my child has come on leaps and bounds whilst attending here. Staff are very passionate about their job and care dearly about the children.
Reply from Gillian Hopkins at Little Pioneers Nursery & Pre-School, Tavistock
It is lovely to hear how well your child has come on whilst being at nursery. We try our very best to offer the very best childcare and plan activities to help with each individual child's development…read more
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Review from Geoff B (Father of Child) published on 7 August 2018 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
My wife and I recently attended the open day at Tavistock Nursery which was fantastic. The staff are always superb and the level of creativity and the overall standard of the nursery is always on point. This event was what we have come to expect.


Our daughter has been full time at the nursery now

for 18 months and my wife and I are convinced that the nursery and the staff are responsible for how advanced she seems to be in everything she does. It's easy to say when it's your child, we acknowledge that of course, but her 'parents evening' reports always reflect it.


We love the fact it's a multicultural environment and the staff at every level have always been great. If you are looking for a nursery in Sunderland then you should at least consider Tavistock. I always remember the owner encouraging us to consider other nurseries at the same time we looked at Tavistock so that we made the best decision for our daughter and found a nursery we were really comfortable with. That says a lot!

Reply from Gillian Hopkins at Little Pioneers Nursery & Pre-School, Tavistock
It is lovely to hear that you attended our open day, we all had a great time showing our nursery off to its highest standard. Our staff try very hard to ensure that activities set out are planned to…read more
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Review from Eve S (Mother of Child) published on 1 August 2018 Submitted via Postal Card • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
An excellent nursery. My little boy has attended since he was eight months and will be starting school this year. He has progressed so well because of this nursery. All the staff are so welcoming, activities are great and we are sad to leave.
Reply from Gillian Hopkins at Little Pioneers Nursery & Pre-School, Tavistock
It is so lovely to hear that you rate us as an "excellent" nursery as we thrive on making sure the children in our care receive the best possible care and education. We will miss you all.
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Review from Shaffraz A (Father of Child) published on 1 August 2018 Submitted via Postal Card • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
Very happy with the care my son is getting. He is more interactive and cheerful. He loves to go to the nursery now. This puts our minds at rest leaving him every morning in good hands.


The only disappointment was when we first came to inquire, the administration staff told us that he will not be

charged for 2-3 weeks of holiday leave in a years time but when we asked this at a later date, we were told that it's not the case.
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Review from Claire S (Mother of Child) published on 27 July 2018 Submitted via Postal Card • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
A fabulous nursery with the child at the centre. Staff are friendly, helpful and welcoming. My child has made great progress and formed strong bonds with his key workers and other staff. My child enjoys attending nursery. I have used this nursery for both of my children over the years and would highly
recommend this nursery to others.
Reply from Gillian Hopkins at Little Pioneers Nursery & Pre-School, Tavistock
It is nice to hear that we are doing our job right and that you have returned with your second child. Our staff work extremely hard in making sure each child is achieving as much as they possibly can…read more
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Review from Catherine G (Mother of Child) published on 27 July 2018 Submitted via Postal Card • Report
Overall Experience 4.0 out of 5
My daughter has settled into Tavistock lovely. The staff are fantastic and I believe this nursery has brought my daughter on leaps and bounds. Thank you all.
Reply from Gillian Hopkins at Little Pioneers Nursery & Pre-School, Tavistock
It is lovely to hear your daughter has settled in so well. Our staff work very hard to ensure they make a bond with every child within their room and it is nice to see that this is happening. The…read more
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Review from C D (Mother of Child) published on 27 July 2018 Submitted via Postal Card • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
I have had two children who have both been cared for at Tavistock House Day Nursery since they were nine months old. Both of my children have had exceptional care. I have been overwhelmed by the amazing staff who will always go the extra mile to ensure your child is happy and well looked after. Both
children have loved their time at Tavistock and I would recommend the nursery to anyone thinking of childcare in Sunderland. Thank you Tavistock.
Reply from Gillian Hopkins at Little Pioneers Nursery & Pre-School, Tavistock
Hi, Thank you so much for your positive review.
It has been a privilege to look after your children for so long, and we wish you all the very best for the future.

Best regards

Director
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Review from A R (Mother of Child) published on 18 July 2018 Submitted via Postal Card • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
My daughter has attended Tavistock since she was 6 months old, everything has been fantastic during her 3 years there. Staff are highly attentive, kind, caring and respectful. They clearly have my child's best interests at heart. My daughter loves going to nursery and her development has undoubtedly
been supported by the environment and staff at Tavistock. We look forward to sending our new baby here early next year!
Reply from Gillian Hopkins at Little Pioneers Nursery & Pre-School, Tavistock
Thank you for your lovely review. We are pleased you are happy with the level of care your child receives. We will be sad to see your daughter leave us for school but we hope she enjoys it as much as…read more
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Review from Gemma (Mother of Child) published on 17 July 2018 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
When I had my first child I visited lots of nurseries, however, Tavistock was different and we loved it the moment we went. When I had my second son there was no hesitation about where to send him.


He is currently in the Caterpillar Room - the staff in there are amazing. They have developed his confidence

both socially and academically - ensuring he is prepared for Reception school. The room has a range of activities and they often have little visits out - the local park or museum.


I am immediately at ease after leaving him and know my child will be well looked after through day.


The office-based staff also don't mind me ringing just to check in and ensure he's fine - if he's ever had a 'clingy' morning! All staff are extremely approachable and the communication between them and parents is clear and regular. A wonderful environment.

Reply from Gillian Hopkins at Little Pioneers Nursery & Pre-School, Tavistock
It's lovely to hear both your children loved attending our nursery, and you feel happy and comfortable with the level of care we provide.
Your child will be a big miss and we hope he loves school as…read more
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Review from Karen B (Grandmother of Child) published on 17 July 2018 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
My granddaughter started here a couple of months ago, she was 20 months and she sobbed when she was left for the hour. The staff were excellent with her and the hourly visits continued, to the point now she loves to go, and sometimes she doesn't want to go home. Everyone has persevered and been so understanding
and you can tell it is bringing her on loads. I would definitely recommend you to visit here, you won't be disappointed.
Reply from Gillian Hopkins at Little Pioneers Nursery & Pre-School, Tavistock
Hi Karen, we are so pleased your Granddaughter settled and loves to attend nursery now. We believe our free visiting process works well for children who are a little unsettled it allows them time to…read more
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Review from Marsha M (Mother of Child) published on 10 July 2018 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
I viewed many nurseries in Sunderland before selecting Tavistock House Day Nursery. I knew it was perfect for my daughter the minute we walked in! My daughter has now been attending the nursery for over 2.5 years and she loves the staff and the variety of activities. My husband and I are often amazed
at the new things she shows us she can do. I can't recommend Tavistock House Day Nursery enough!
Reply from Gillian Hopkins at Little Pioneers Nursery & Pre-School, Tavistock
It is lovely to hear that you looked around other nurseries before choosing us. We thrive on making sure the children are given the best start in their little lives and do this through our activities…read more
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Review from Ralph W (Grandfather of Child) published on 6 July 2018 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
My granddaughter has been going to Tavistock for over 3 years and has enjoyed her time there immensely. She loves learning Spanish and football training that they do. The staff make you welcome as soon as you go in and deal with any problems/queries you might have. They do a lot more than just look
after children, they help them on their first step to getting ready for school. Words don't do them justice and I'll gladly recommend Tavistock to anyone who wants a good nursery for their child.
Reply from Gillian Hopkins at Little Pioneers Nursery & Pre-School, Tavistock
Hi Ralph,
Thank you so much for the lovely review you have given us. We are so glad you are happy with the level of care your Granddaughter receives from our staff.
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Review from Esther M (Mother of Child) published on 2 July 2018 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
Tavistock has been an excellent environment for my son, who has been here since his first birthday and he is now 2 years old. I have seen him grow from being very clingy to his parents to now interacting and playing with children of his age which is an excellent improvement. Additionally, coming from
a different ethnic background, it has been comforting and encouraging to see how the staff have received and made my son feel comfortable and well supported. The Tavistock staff have also been very supportive as a mum who works in the healthcare profession and has accommodated my varying shifts to work around my son's childcare.
Reply from Gillian Hopkins at Little Pioneers Nursery & Pre-School, Tavistock
Thank you so much for your lovely review. We love to see the children grow and develop into confident characters.
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Review from Anuoluwapo S (Mother of Child) published on 28 June 2018 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
I will recommend Tavistock House Day Nursery to every child because I am very well pleased with their services, my daughter has really improved since she has been attending Tavistock House Day Nursery. The staff are excellent and they put their best in teaching the kids.
Reply from Gillian Hopkins at Little Pioneers Nursery & Pre-School, Tavistock
That is so lovely to hear that you are pleased with everything in the nursery and it is great to hear your child has improved since attending.
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Review from Claire V (Mother of Child) published on 27 June 2018 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
So pleased I chose this nursery. My little boy has been there from 8 months old and I have always felt very comfortable leaving him with the caring and enthusiastic staff. I have never had any concerns or complaints, the nursery has a lovely atmosphere, nutritious menu and plenty of age-appropriate
activities to keep the children entertained. The staff are very vigilant and proactive and communication is fantastic!!
Reply from Gillian Hopkins at Little Pioneers Nursery & Pre-School, Tavistock
Claire it is lovely to hear such a lovely response to our nursery and staff team. Both ourselves and staff work very hard to make sure we are providing activities that are fun as well as great for…read more
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Current Review Score: 9.7 (9.671)

Overview of Review Score

The Review Score of 9.7 (9.671) out of 10 for Little Pioneers Nursery & Pre-School, Tavistock is based on a) the Average Rating and b) the number of positive Reviews.

  1. The Average Rating is 4.8 out of 5 from 25 Reviews in the last 24 months.
  2. The score for the number of positive Reviews is 4.9 out of 5 from 24 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 4.789 for Little Pioneers Nursery & Pre-School, Tavistock is calculated as follows: ( (270 Excellents x 5) + (13 Goods x 4) + (6 Satisfactorys x 3) + (2 Poors x 2) + (8 Very Poors x 1) ) ÷ 299 Ratings = 4.789
  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 4.882 Points relating to the number of positive Reviews for Little Pioneers Nursery & Pre-School, Tavistock is based on 24 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 136 number of registered child places is 27.2. 24 Positive Reviews ÷ 27.2 = 0.882
  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

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Awards / Recognitions (10)

Meet the Team (1)

Lisa

Lisa

Job Title: Nursery Manager Joined: 2020

Hello, I'm Lisa, the manager here at Tavistock nursery in Sunderland.

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