Busy Bees Nursery

Priory Road, Newton Hall, Durham DH1 5HW
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10 185 Reviews
  • Busy Bees Nursery, Durham
Busy Bees Day Nursery provides quality and inspirational learning for children up to eleven years old.

They provide a nurturing and caring environment where everyone feels welcome and valued in their own right. They have established an enviable reputation for delivering a high-quality childcare service and this is recognised by both parents and Ofsted.

The children are cared for in a stimulating environment where each child can reach their full potential. Children are actively encouraged to explore, learn, communicate and interact with one another.

Busy Bees is very proud of its staff who you will find are enthusiastic, dedicated and highly qualified and this is what makes the nursery so special.

There are extensive separate gardens where the babies and children can explore and feel safe, but most of all have fun.

There is an open door policy to ensure there is effective communication at all times between the nursery and parents/carers.

The staff would love to show you around their wonderful nursery.
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Type of Service

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

Owner

  • Busy Bees (Durham) Ltd
  • Privately Owned

Person in Charge

  • Carey-Anne Bonser (Nursery Manager)

Number of Childcare Staff

  • 64

Total Places for Children

  • 170

Age Range

  • from 0 years 0 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 & 1 week at Christmas

Busy Bees Nursery Reviews (185)

10

Busy Bees Nursery has a Review Score of 10 (9.966) out of 10, based on 33 reviews in the last 2 years.
Over all time Busy Bees Nursery has 185 reviews.

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Date Published
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Review from Jason M (Father of Child) published on 28 April 2023 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
Since my daughter has started at Busy Bees her confidence has grown so much, it has been amazing to see how much she enjoys going to nursery and the genuine friendships she has made with not only the other children but the staff. The staff always provide me lots of updates and pictures of her time and
her development has come along so much.
I would recommend this nursery to everyone.
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Review from S A (Mother of Child) published on 28 April 2023 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
My daughter has been attending Busy Bees Nursery for over a year now. She has developed amazingly and now knows sign. Majority of the staff are amazing and show kindness and care to all children, as observed during a couple of stay and plays. Parents are greeted with a smile and a warm welcome whenever
you are dropping off/picking up your child. The nursery has an app which keeps parents updated on the activities/meals/nappy changes/naps throughout the days and often post pictures of your child taking part in some of the activities which is lovely to see. Highly recommend this nursery to anyone thinking of putting their child into it
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Review from Laura C (Mother of Child) published on 29 March 2023 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
My daughter attended this nursery for around 18 months. She absolutely loved it, the staff were consistently caring and she had so much fun! We will be returning to Busy Bees for holiday care and I know she'll be thrilled to go back!
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Review from Gemma C (Mother of Child) published on 17 March 2023 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
I love this nursery the staff have always been so helpful, approachable and supportive. My son loves going in and has so many different messy play and adventures that he wouldn’t of normally had at home, the nursery has a great app so I see what he’s been up to and what he’s eaten etc highly recommended
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Review from N G (Mother of Child) published on 16 March 2023 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
My little boy has attended Busy Bees since he was five months old. He has developed amazingly throughout his time here. All the separate rooms are age-related, and the activities suit their abilities. In each room he has attended, I have seen a difference and his confidence growing. When he got a bit
older after Covid, he became apprehensive and didn't want to attend, this was dealt with, with compassion and care by the staff, and it soon passed. He will be leaving in September to start school, and I know he will miss the staff and the nursery as he enjoys it. I have especially seen a massive difference, and he has come on leaps and bounds in the last couple of months. I definitely think he is school ready, and this is down to the brilliant staff at Busy Bees.
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Review from Lyndsey E (Mother of Child) published on 7 February 2023 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
Just amazing! Both my sons have attended Busy Bees and have loved their time at the nursery. The staff are amazing and provide an exceptional level of care. In addition to my sons being so well looked after, they have had such a fun time and have had lots of lovely adventures!
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Review from H P (Mother of Child) published on 6 February 2023 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
I have two children at Busy Bees and one attended during Covid etc, which was dealt with exceptionally well. The staff are absolutely wonderful, both my children have thrived in their care. I observed staff at several stay-and-play days and during pick-up - I was taken back at how nurturing, patient
and kind they all were, with all of the children. They have also made time to ensure my child - one of the oldest in his year - is learning at the right level, inviting him to sessions in the year above etc. They also encourage both children in anything they have taken a special interest in - going home to learn more about it just so they can connect with them. They greet my children with smiles and cuddles. Such a special place!
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Review from Hannah G (Mother of Child) published on 6 February 2023 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
We have had an extremely positive experience with Busy Bees since our daughter started back in August 2019, which has continued with our second child who joined in 2022. The staff are so friendly from the moment you arrive in the morning, right through till pick up. You can tell they really get to know
the children by the feedback they give you, with regular updates/pictures via the app and verbally at the end of the day. My daughter who is now in reception still talks about her time there and has settled so well into school, thanks to all the preparation nursery did to support this. I wouldn't hesitate to recommend this nursery to any families in the area!
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Review from Kayleigh T (Mother of Child) published on 13 December 2022 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
Our twins currently attend Busy Bees and have done since April 2022 when they turned three years old. They attended a small childminder setting prior to this so they were very overwhelmed and shy when they first started, but I cannot praise the staff enough for how patient and caring they were with
them until they came out of their shell. In September 2022 they moved up to big bumbles and they absolutely love it! They have little friends and play separately with them, have lots to tell me about their fun-filled days. Daily updates on activities and meals on the app always makes my day, to see they will be busy learning and eating delicious, varied, healthy meals, that they really enjoy. Learning/play time is excellent, there is always outdoor play when the weather permits and always lots going on for them to take part in and enjoy. All the staff are so friendly, from kitchen and cleaning staff to admin and nursery practitioners. It is just an all round, lovely nursery.
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Review from Christy F (Mother of Child) published on 12 December 2022 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
I always knew I would send my son here. The relationship that the staff or should I say special carers have with each child, is amazing. Everyone is so welcoming and really take the time to know each child and parent. It has a second-home environment feel and that's what you want and need when choosing
where to send your child. My son loves it here and has now been in pretty much every room. We love it and would recommend to anyone!
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Review from Moranda M (Mother of Child) published on 7 December 2022 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
My twin sons has been in attendance at Busy Bees Nursery since August 2021. It was the best care and educational choice I could've made for them. They are non-identical. Both have thrived since being in attendance. I'd had concerns that one of my sons had autism. I was very unprepared and unaware of
how to get access to diagnostic assessments and speech and language assessments. For a long time, my concerns have been put down to the effects of a pandemic. The manager has a wealth of experience in SEN, other staff members also went above and beyond but the whole team are amazing and facilitated getting an early diagnosis and an Education and Health Care Plan. Arranging meetings, referring to appropriate services, checking in on how we as a family were doing. Constantly working with my son to accommodate his extra needs, being inclusive, adaptive and responsive. This went beyond just being an outstanding nursery. I truly believe that because we attended this nursery it has had a lifelong impact on both my sons' development. They are happy and working towards their potential. They are helping us transition to a mainstream school. Both my sons feel very comfortable. I fully trust that they are in the safest environment for their specific needs with experienced staff. They are always happy to attend. As I work in the NHS and have shifts, they are constantly trying to accommodate extra days and through the nursery I have made friends with other parents. For all this I am truly grateful and would recommend this nursery to any parent with a child with a special educational need.
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Review from Beth M (Mother of Child) published on 7 November 2022 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
The staff at Busy bees nursery have gone above and beyond for my son and I couldn't be more grateful, he loves the place. My second son started a few months back and again absolutely loves it. They really do care about every single child that attends and their needs. The meals, activities and rooms
are very well thought out. I would recommend any parent/caregiver to without a doubt be happy to put their children into this nursery.
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Review from Doug M (Father of Child) published on 3 November 2022 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
I highly recommend Busy Bees. Great nursery that can meet the needs and provide all the necessary support needed for each individual child. Childcare is delivered to the highest of standards. Great support staff, well-resourced and experienced. The boys thoroughly enjoyed their time there.
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Review from Gemma M (Mother of Child) published on 3 November 2022 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
Both of our children have attended the nursery. From the moment we first visited to the time our youngest left, the staff have been amazing! We are still amazed at how all the staff remember every child's name. We can definitely recommend this nursery as we saw a huge difference in both our children's
confidence, independence and speech development.
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Review from Rachel B (Mother of Child) published on 3 November 2022 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
My son has attended Busy Bees for four months now. So far, I cannot fault the care he receives. The staff are excellent, professional, welcoming and exceptionally organised. During this period, he has been unwell on several occasions. The ladies at Busy Bees went above and beyond to take care of him,
till I arrived. They are compassionate and truly care about the welfare of their students and parents. He thoroughly enjoys his time at nursery.
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Review from Emma W (Mother of Child) published on 2 November 2022 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
Our daughter has been at the nursery since October 2020 and has loved every minute. The staff are really helpful, friendly and informative. She has grown and learned so much and keeps excelling in all she does. Thanks to the staff for all their support, kindness, loving nature and caring for our daughter.
She loves going into nursery each day.
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Review from Jacqui W (Mother of Child) published on 6 September 2022 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
Busy Bees is an outstanding nursery! The environment in which the staff have created is so special. My little one has thoroughly enjoyed his time at the nursery and he has developed so much. This is testament to all of the staff who are all lovely, especially the staff in the honey room who have gone
above and beyond to ensure the highest quality of care is given to my little boy.
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Review from Louise B (Mother of Child) published on 13 August 2022 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
Busy Bees Nursery, Durham. I highly recommend it with no hesitation. I believe that the first years of development are crucial to the foundations of a positive, social and inquisitive approach to life. Busy Bees Nursery provides a service that matches the needs of every individual child, encouragement,
support and guidance is given, and these children thrive in such an enabling environment. I found a gem when I discovered Busy Bees Nursery. As a full time working Mother, the nursery gave me peace of mind and at the same time, my child's development flourished. Child care that is exceptional, delivering to the highest of standards and most importantly is safe and secure for our children.
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Review from Chelsea B (Mother of Child) published on 12 August 2022 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
My little boy is 3 years old and started Busy Bees Nursery at the start of the year. We joined Busy Bees Nursery following a bad experience with a previous nursery. I can honestly say moving my child to Busy Bees was the best thing we have ever done. My little boy is naturally very shy but he is coming
out of his shell and growing in confidence every day. The staff are so relatable and really care about each individual child! When I pick my little boy up they will always spend the time to let me know how his day has been, what he has eaten and if there is anything to let me know. The nursery staff are simply amazing! The app is also fantastic in providing photos and keeping you updated. I couldn’t recommend the nursery enough and they will always go the extra mile to help with childcare etc. I am so pleased about my little boy's progress and I am looking forward to another year of fun and learning! Thank you so much for everything you do!
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Review from J C (Mother of Child) published on 5 August 2022 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
My son has just finished his time here and what a time it’s been. From starting at the age of two and a half unable to say more than a couple of words, he’s left with all the knowledge he needs to begin his journey at primary school.
The staff at busy bees go above and beyond and the children are
their number one priority. Regular updates throughout the week regarding what your child is learning and the friends they are making keep your mind at ease and the smile on the childrens faces when they leave say it all. I remember a time my son told his teacher he was bored. The manager approached him and asked what she could do to make his days more fun, he responded with ‘more bikes’ - well she did just that. The resource they have and the experience they hold is exactly why busy bees comes so highly recommended. The personal relationships built between staff and parents/children are amazing and busy bees will always have a special place in our hearts.
Thank you for everything you do.
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Current Review Score: 10.0 (9.966)

Overview of Review Score

The Review Score of 10 (9.966) out of 10 for Busy Bees Nursery is based on a) the Average Rating and b) the number of positive Reviews.

  1. The Average Rating is 5.0 out of 5 from 33 Reviews in the last 24 months.
  2. The score for the number of positive Reviews is 5.0 out of 5 from 33 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 4.995 for Busy Bees Nursery is calculated as follows: ( (393 Excellents x 5) + (2 Goods x 4) ) ÷ 395 Ratings = 4.995
  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 4.971 Points relating to the number of positive Reviews for Busy Bees Nursery is based on 33 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 170 number of registered child places is 34. 33 Positive Reviews ÷ 34 = 0.971
  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.

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