Bright Horizons First Class Day Nursery and Preschool

Cunningham Building, Macaulay Drive, Craigiebuckler, Aberdeen AB15 8QW
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10 85 Reviews
  • Bright Horizons First Class Day Nursery and Preschool, Aberdeen
Discover, play, and grow at a nursery in rural Airyhall near Aberdeen.

Bright Horizons First Class Day Nursery and Preschool, located in a very quiet area of Airyhall, has been carefully designed to support your child’s education and development, from 3 months to 5 years.

The nursery in Airyhall, Craigiebuckler is conveniently located with excellent transport links to the Aberdeen city centre. It has its own car park and is within walking distance of Airyhall Primary School.

The nursery offers a warm, welcoming environment supporting the transition from home to nursery, and excellent nutritionally-balanced menus using fresh ingredients prepared by the chef. The nursery is located in the grounds of The James Hutton Institute, which is surrounded by woodlands for children to explore.

With access to three separate gardens, your child will have daily access to their very own secret garden, duck pond and vegetable plot. The team loves encouraging children to explore all of their favourite extracurricular activities and this abundance of outdoor space gives them room to learn, play and develop their love of the outdoors.

In addition, they practise a Growing Enhancement programme unique to Bright Horizons, further giving your child the inspiration and confidence to explore subjects such as mathematics, art, reading and writing well ahead of their journey into school.

The experienced team would love to meet you and your family. Book a visit today and they will show you everything the nursery has to offer during your own personal tour.
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Type of Service

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

Group/Owner

Person in Charge

  • Caroline (Nursery Manager)

Number of Childcare Staff

  • 25

Total Places for Children

  • 108

Age Range

  • from 0 years 3 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

  • Christmas Day, Boxing Day, 1st & 2nd January

Bright Horizons First Class Day Nursery and Preschool Reviews (85)

10

Bright Horizons First Class Day Nursery and Preschool has a Review Score of 10 (9.974) out of 10, based on 41 reviews in the last 2 years.
Over all time Bright Horizons First Class Day Nursery and Preschool has 85 reviews.

Overall Experience
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Date Published
  • 85
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Reviewer Connection to Bright Horizons First Class Day Nursery and Preschool
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Total of 85, showing 1-20
Review from Chloe C (Mother of Child) published on 27 November 2025 Submitted via Postal Card • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
I really love first class nursery, I feel confident putting my daughter in, knowing she is safe
Willow has really built a strong realationship with Ewelina her keyworker. She has learnt alot of new skills since moving into two's
Reply from Amanda Barlow, The Parent Team at Bright Horizons First Class Day Nursery and Preschool
Thank you! We're delighted Willow feels safe, has bonded with Ewelina and is learning new skills.
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Review from Raymond R (Father of Child) published on 27 November 2025 Submitted via Postal Card • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
We cannot be more appreciative for the support, care & understanding Bright Horizons First Class Day Nursery & Preschool have been to us as a family. Our daughter's well being & development has been their priority at all times, especially to cater to her additional health needs. Thank you to all the
teams in Bright Horizons First Class.
Reply from Amanda Barlow, The Parent Team at Bright Horizons First Class Day Nursery and Preschool
Thank you for your heartfelt feedback! We're so pleased our team has supported your family and prioritized your daughter's well-being and development. We truly appreciate your kind words.
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Review from A C (Father of Child) published on 27 November 2025 Submitted via Postal Card • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
The entire setup with Bright Horizons and First Class nursery has been nothing but wonderful. We have had only good experiences with all the staff and Riley enjoys the nursery so much keep up the great work!
Reply from Amanda Barlow, The Parent Team at Bright Horizons First Class Day Nursery and Preschool
Thank you for your lovely feedback! We're thrilled Riley enjoys nursery and that you've had such positive experiences with our team.
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Review from Barbara M (Mother of Child) published on 27 November 2025 Submitted via Postal Card • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
I am very happy with care the nursery is providing for my son. He is developing new skills all the time and loves his time here.
Reply from Amanda Barlow, The Parent Team at Bright Horizons First Class Day Nursery and Preschool
Thank you for your lovely feedback! We're delighted your son is enjoying nursery and developing new skills - it's wonderful for the team to see his progress.
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Review from Mihai K (Father of Child) published on 27 November 2025 Submitted via Postal Card • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
We are extremely happy with our experience at First Class Nursery. The staff are caring, attentive and creat a warm, welcoming environment for the children. The variety of activities encourages creativity and curiosity and social development. Overall it is a wonderful place for all child to grown and
learn and play.
Reply from Amanda Barlow, The Parent Team at Bright Horizons First Class Day Nursery and Preschool
Thank you for your lovely feedback! We're delighted you feel First Class Nursery provides a caring, creative environment where children can learn, grow, and thrive.
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Review from J H (Father of Child) published on 26 November 2025 Submitted via Postal Card • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
Since joining Bright Horizons, our son has come on so much and is always so excited to get into nursery. He gets on so well with the staff, and the food must be good because he always seems to eat here and not at home!
Reply from Amanda Barlow, The Parent Team at Bright Horizons First Class Day Nursery and Preschool
Thank you for your lovely feedback! We're thrilled your son is thriving, excited for nursery and enjoying mealtimes.
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Review from Hannah D (Mother of Child) published on 20 November 2025 Submitted via Postal Card • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
Excellent staff who show genuine passion, care & skill for our daughter. Staff go above & beyond supporting and caring for the children & we couldn't be happier with the care that is received. Love the outdoor space and the access to the local community/nature that is facilitated. Thank you!
Reply from Amanda Barlow, The Parent Team at Bright Horizons First Class Day Nursery and Preschool
Thank you so much for your lovely feedback. Were thrilled you feel supported and that your daughter enjoys the outdoor space and community experiences.
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Review from S J (Mother of Child) published on 20 November 2025 Submitted via Postal Card • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
Fantastic halloween event with lots of fun activities for both adults & children. I have loved hearing the stories of all the activities that Noa has participated in to prepare.
Noa has the best time at Pre-school & its great to get to join her for some play.
Reply from Amanda Barlow, The Parent Team at Bright Horizons First Class Day Nursery and Preschool
Thank you so much for lovely review. We're thrilled your daughter enjoyed the Halloween event and all the fun activities. It's lovely that you could join her for some playtime too!
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Review from J T (Father of Child) published on 20 November 2025 Submitted via Postal Card • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
My son attends First Class & it absolutely is First Class. My sons key workers since he has started have all been excellent & there is no doubt that his development is directly attributed to the level of interaction, development & friendly atmosphere that is created within the pre school. Staff make
an excellent effort every morning to welcome my son & make him feel comfortable. My sons dietary requirements are also met, he will often come home raving about the dairy free meal provided. The app is also a great way to check any details & echo the above. Very fortunate our son attends here :)
Reply from Amanda Barlow, The Parent Team at Bright Horizons First Class Day Nursery and Preschool
Thank you so much for your wonderful feedback. We're thrilled your son feels so happy and supported here, and that our team and app make a real difference for your family.
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Review from Ross M (Father of Child) published on 20 November 2025 Submitted via Postal Card • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
The staff are excellent and are very attentive to the needs of the children. Facilities are very good and there are always activities to keep all children entertained and educated.
Reply from Amanda Barlow, The Parent Team at Bright Horizons First Class Day Nursery and Preschool
Thank you so much for your kind words. We're thrilled to hear you appreciate our caring team and the activities that keep children happy, learning and engaged.
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Review from Danielle S (Mother of Child) published on 20 November 2025 Submitted via Postal Card • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
First class has been amazing for not only my daughter but myself also. I was very nervous to put my child into childcare but she has absolutely thrived since the minute she started. Staff completely made me feel at ease.
Reply from Amanda Barlow, The Parent Team at Bright Horizons First Class Day Nursery and Preschool
Thank you so much for sharing your review. We're delighted to hear your positive feedback and thrilled that your daughter is flourishing at our nursery.
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Review from M R (Father of Child) published on 20 November 2025 Submitted via Postal Card • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
Really good facilities, the staff and management team go above and beyond for the kids making fun play days and creative learning experiences.
Reply from Amanda Barlow, The Parent Team at Bright Horizons First Class Day Nursery and Preschool
Thank you for your 5-star review and positive feedback; we truly appreciate your kind words about the team.
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Review from Nadia V (Mother of Child) published on 3 September 2025 Submitted via Postal Card • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
Our daughter joined Bright Horizons First Class Nursery in August 2024. In just 1 year; we could notice an amazing increase in her confidence and she truly enjoyed attending Nursery. The staff have been amazing at supporting her learning and development - especially preparing for P1. They made her feel
at home, built lasting relationships and I'm sure she will remember her time @ FIRST CLASS for years to come. As parent we could HIGHLY recommend this Nursery! It has been her home away from home; where she felt loved and supported throughout. Thank you to the AMAZING team of Educators, we appreciate your time, effort and enthusiasm for our daughter her peers immensely!
Reply from Amanda Barlow, The Parent Team at Bright Horizons First Class Day Nursery and Preschool
Thank you for your wonderful words. We're delighted your daughter has thrived at Bright Horizons First Class Nursery and felt so supported, prepared, and happy throughout her early years journey!
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Review from A M (Mother of Child) published on 3 September 2025 Submitted via Postal Card • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
Great staff
Really good with allergies
Good communication
Reply from Amanda Barlow, The Parent Team at Bright Horizons First Class Day Nursery and Preschool
Thank you for your kind words about Bright Horizons staff and communication!
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Review from Lyndsay D (Mother of Child) published on 3 September 2025 Submitted via Postal Card • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
First class in every sense of the word.
This nursery is inclusive to everyone.
Supportive nuturing and caring
The faculities are fantastic, with a great outdoor play area.
The staff are the best.
Reply from Amanda Barlow, The Parent Team at Bright Horizons First Class Day Nursery and Preschool
Thank you for your glowing review. We're delighted you value the inclusive, supportive environment at Bright Horizons and appreciate our fantastic team and facilities!
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Review from Jamie R (Father of Child) published on 3 September 2025 Submitted via Postal Card • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
Our child attended this nursery for just over a year and we are very happy with the overall experience and great staff
Reply from Amanda Barlow, The Parent Team at Bright Horizons First Class Day Nursery and Preschool
Thank you for your kind feedback. We're so pleased your child had a positive experience at Bright Horizons and that you've been happy with our dedicated staff!
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Review from L D (Mother of Child) published on 3 September 2025 Submitted via Postal Card • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
A very happy environment, who transition kids very well at each stage.
Always felt there was a real connection between the staff and kids and a real interest in building relationships and focus on development.
Reply from Amanda Barlow, The Parent Team at Bright Horizons First Class Day Nursery and Preschool
Thank you for your lovely words. We're delighted you've felt such strong connections at Bright Horizons and that your child is thriving through each stage of development!
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Review from A D (Mother of Child) published on 3 September 2025 Submitted via Postal Card • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
The staff are extremely caring - my son adores them all. I trust that he is in good hands whilst at nursery.
I have been impressed with the 'prep for school' activities and feel confident they have done all they can to ensure my son is ready for school.
The graduation party was well planned and executed.
A
big thank you to everyone!
Reply from Amanda Barlow, The Parent Team at Bright Horizons First Class Day Nursery and Preschool
Thank you for your wonderful feedback. We're so pleased your son has enjoyed his time at Bright Horizons and feels prepared and excited for school!
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Review from E I (Mother of Child) published on 14 August 2025 Submitted via Postal Card • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
My son has thrived since joining Bright Horizons! The staff have always been so warm and welcoming to my son and me as the parent, the communication in person and via the app is always detailed and my son has built a strong bond with his keyworker, who took the time to understand his needs and likes
and dislikes and has helped build his confidence and teach new skills. My son is always keen to tell me all the great activities he gets up to in his days spent at Bright Horizons. I am very impressed by the standard of care and learning resources the children are offerd.
Reply from Amanda Barlow, The Parent Team at Bright Horizons First Class Day Nursery and Preschool
Thank you for your wonderful feedback. We're so pleased to hear how well your son has thrived, built confidence and enjoyed his activities.
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Review from Sreedish D (Father of Child) published on 16 May 2025 Submitted via Postal Card • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
Amazing staff, a very safe environment for our little one. The nursery is definitely a great place for our daughter to learn and play, and we would recommend it to everyone.
Reply from Amanda Barlow, The Parent Team at Bright Horizons First Class Day Nursery and Preschool
Thank you so much for your positive feedback! Thank you for recommending us!
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Current Review Score: 10.0 (9.974)

Overview of Review Score

The Review Score of 10 (9.974) out of 10 for Bright Horizons First Class Day Nursery and Preschool 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 41 Reviews in the last 24 months.
  2. The score for the number of positive Reviews is 5.0 out of 5 from 41 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 4.974 for Bright Horizons First Class Day Nursery and Preschool is calculated as follows: ( (479 Excellents x 5) + (13 Goods x 4) ) ÷ 492 Ratings = 4.974
  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 Bright Horizons First Class Day Nursery and Preschool is based on 41 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 108 number of registered child places is 21.6, which has been reached with 41 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.

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Awards / Recognitions (4)

Meet the Team (3)

Caroline

Caroline

Job Title: Nursery Manager

Caroline has been the nursery manager since 2020, bringing a wealth of experience and a deep passion for early childhood education to her role. She completed her Professional Development Award in Childhood Practice Level 9, reflecting her commitment to excellence in the field.


As a dedicated mother of two, Caroline’s life outside of work is vibrant and dynamic, often filled with the joys and challenges of family life. Her enthusiasm for mentoring, coaching, and developing a team is evident in her approach to leadership. She thrives on fostering a supportive and collaborative environment, where both staff and children can flourish.


Caroline eagerly anticipates the opportunity to work with the exceptional First Class staff and is excited to contribute her expertise and passion for nurturing growth and development. Her dedication to creating an enriching and stimulating environment ensures that the nursery remains a place where both children and staff thrive.

Amber

Amber

Job Title: Deputy Nursery Manager

Amber has worked in the childcare sector for over eight years. She has taken on various roles, and she is currently the Deputy Manager at First Class Nursery. Having earned her SVQ qualification she is now working towards a Bachelor's Degree in Childhood Practice.


Passionate about promoting inclusivity and ensuring every child feels a sense of belonging, she loves supporting the team in creating welcoming and stimulating environments. Filled with loose parts and natural, authentic play materials that encourage children’s curiosity and exploration.


In her spare time, Amber enjoys spending time with her family.

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Kim

Job Title: Curriculum Lead

Kim has over 15 years of commitment to the childcare sector. Experienced in various roles, including Room Leader and Nursery Manager. She completed the PDA Level 9 in Childhood Practice qualification and works alongside her team to provide meaningful experiences, promote a culture of learning among colleagues, and enhance the service.


With a passion for creating stimulating and inviting environments to support the children’s learning and interests, she enables them to reach their full potential.

Frequently Asked Questions about Bright Horizons First Class Day Nursery and Preschool

What is the Age Range of Children that Bright Horizons First Class Day Nursery and Preschool accepts?

Bright Horizons First Class Day Nursery and Preschool accepts Children aged from 0 years 3 months to 5 years 0 months.

What Days & Hours is Bright Horizons First Class Day Nursery and Preschool Open?

Bright Horizons First Class Day Nursery and Preschool is open: 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.

How many Children does Bright Horizons First Class Day Nursery and Preschool have capacity for?

Bright Horizons First Class Day Nursery and Preschool has capacity for a total of 108 Children.

How far is Bright Horizons First Class Day Nursery and Preschool to the centre of Aberdeen?

2.2 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 Bright Horizons First Class Day Nursery and Preschool to verify any information. View our terms and conditions. Bright Horizons First Class Day Nursery and Preschool has an Enhanced Service - more info.