Little Rays Nursery Ballymena

83a Galgorm Road, Ballymena BT42 1AA
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9.2 106 Reviews
  • Little Rays Nursery Ballymena, Ballymena
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Funding & Fees

All fees are revised in April each year.
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Contact Little Rays Nursery Ballymena to get a personalised quote.

Contact Little Rays Nursery Ballymena to get a personalised quote.

Type of Service

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

Group/Owner

Person in Charge

  • Lesley Walker (Manager)

Number of Childcare Staff

  • 37

Total Places for Children

  • 197

Age Range

  • from 0 years 2 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
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Little Rays Nursery Ballymena Reviews (106)

9.2

Little Rays Nursery Ballymena has a Review Score of 9.2 (9.238) out of 10, based on 16 reviews in the last 2 years.
Over all time Little Rays Nursery Ballymena has 106 reviews.

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Review from Laura M (Mother of Child) published on 31 January 2024 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 4.0 out of 5
My daughter started Little Rays when she was nearly 9 months old and has been there now for nearly a year. In that time she has thrived and flourished. She thoroughly enjoys going there and has become a confident and friendly child. The girls have been brilliant with her in the baby room. They respected
the routine we had in place with her with regard to naps and bottles and never forced a change on her (dropping a nap). They tried and if she or I wasn’t happy then they went straight back to the original routine until she was ready to try again. Something I have appreciated as a mum. I cannot sing the girl's praises highly enough. They helped settle my daughter into a strange environment amazingly and as such took a lot of worries away from me as a first-time mum. They have also been very supportive of my child’s milk allergy and helping us with the milk ladder.
Reply from Ashleigh McCrum, Area Manager at Little Rays Nursery BallymenaThank you for taking the time to leave us a review! It's great to hear the positive experience you've had at Little Rays.
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Review from Mikey S (Father of Child) published on 31 January 2024 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
We have had multiple children at the nursery for several years from baby onwards and Little Rays have been amazing. The facilities and activities keep them entertained and developing but what sets Little Rays apart is the staff. Each staff member knows you and your child and the individual care that
is provided is second to none. Thanks, Little Rays! Would recommend this nursery to anyone!
Reply from Ashleigh McCrum, Area Manager at Little Rays Nursery BallymenaIt's wonderful to hear about the positive experience you have had in Little Rays with each of your children! Your kind words really brighten our day!
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Review from R C (Mother of Child) published on 30 January 2024 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
Little Rays Ballymena have looked after both my children. The youngest still being in the preschool room. The staff are so friendly and really take the time to get to know each individual child and their own needs. I have experienced all staff from the toddler room up (children didn’t attend the baby
room) they are so friendly and go above and beyond. The preschool room is fantastic with my little one regularly coming home to say what she has learned today, e.g. all about space
Reply from Ashleigh McCrum, Area Manager at Little Rays Nursery BallymenaYour children's positive experiences at Little Rays make all the hard work worthwhile! Thank you for taking the time to leave us a review!
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Review from Jennifer M (Mother of Child) published on 24 January 2024 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
My daughter has been attending for just over a year and she absolutely loves going in every morning. The girls genuinely seem happy to see her every day and she reciprocates this totally. Her speech development and social development have been amazing during her time in Little Rays and I attribute this
to the wonderful work by all of the staff who work with her. Saorlaith has had a great experience and I am so grateful and thankful for everything the nursery and the staff have done for her. We travel from Derry each day and I feel content and peaceful leaving her off and heading to work.
Reply from Ashleigh McCrum, Area Manager at Little Rays Nursery BallymenaIt's wonderful to know that Little Rays is playing a role in your daughter's development. Thank you for taking the time to share your feedback!
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Review from Patrick M (Father of Child) published on 24 January 2024 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
Our wee boy loves his nursery. The staff are excellent with him and also with us in terms of communication. The variety of food is very good and there are a wide range of activities each day, including as much outdoor play as possible. Couldn’t recommend the nursery enough!! 10/10
Reply from Ashleigh McCrum, Area Manager at Little Rays Nursery BallymenaThank you for taking the time to leave us a review. It's amazing to hear that your son is getting so many positive experiences from Little Rays!
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Review from Joanne H (Mother of Child) published on 24 January 2024 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
This is my second time using Little Rays for my children, I sent my son many years ago when he was a baby right up until he went to playgroup, and my daughter has been attending the nursery since I went back to work from maternity leave. I can't fault the staff, they are always so attentive and extremely
accommodating to anything my daughter needs. She loves going there and playing, and she really enjoys seeing all the staff that she has bonded with. I know that the staff are committed to making sure the children are always engaged and learning. I am a nervous mum and they do everything to put my mind at ease and are always there to answer any questions or accommodate any requests I may have, which I appreciate so much. I wouldn't send my children anywhere else as I know I can have peace of mind when I send them to Little Rays! Thank you to all the staff for being so attentive, and caring and doing their best to be a home away from home for all the children.
Reply from Ashleigh McCrum, Area Manager at Little Rays Nursery BallymenaI'm so glad you have peace of mind knowing that your daughter is being well cared for! Thanks for your kind review.
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Review from H M (Mother of Child) published on 24 January 2024 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
Little Rays in Ballymena are fantastic! The staff have been wonderful and our two have been cared for so well since day one. Even when they were adjusting to going somewhere new, the staff were so good with them and helped them settle really quickly. My oldest is in preschool now and he loves it as
well. Nothing is too much trouble for the girls and the Manager is a fantastic manager - she knows the name of every child, which tells you a lot. I couldn’t give enough praise to this amazing group of caring staff and the building itself is a brilliant space. Love the app as well - especially as I was trying to stick to nap routines at the start.
Reply from Ashleigh McCrum, Area Manager at Little Rays Nursery BallymenaThank you for the kind review, our team put their heart and soul into the care they provide. I'm so glad that your children enjoy their time in Little Rays!
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Review from PJ O (Father of Child) published on 24 January 2024 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
Excellent facilities and caring staff who have brought our son on from a shy baby to a talkative outgoing and confident toddler! His progress has been down to the 40 - 50 hours he spends at Little Rays each week!
Reply from Ashleigh McCrum, Area Manager at Little Rays Nursery BallymenaIt's great to hear how our team has helped your son's confidence grow! Thank you for the review.
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Review from Kyle D (Father of Child) published on 23 January 2024 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
My children have been attending Little Rays for a few months now, and honestly, I have nothing but good things to say about them. They have kept me up-to-date and in the loop about all developments in my children's care, the staff are all amazing and friendly people, and my children enjoy their time
there so much it cannot possibly be put into words in any language I know. I would happily and without hesitation recommend Little Rays to anyone and everyone I know, as the level of care they provide to the children in their charge is quite frankly nothing short of impeccable, and is more than deserving of any awards and recognition that may come their way as a result of their unparalleled enthusiasm and dedication to the care and education of those we as parents hold most dear.
Reply from Ashleigh McCrum, Area Manager at Little Rays Nursery BallymenaThanks for the amazing review! Your family's positive experiences at Little Rays make all the hard work worthwhile.
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Review from Amanda M (Grandmother of Child) published on 23 January 2024 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
My grandson will be 2 next month. He has been at Little Rays for 1 year and really loves it. Loves going in each morning. Really thriving in this environment. Staff great and full of fun. Outdoor and indoor activities are age-appropriate and he enjoys activities and his little friends.
Reply from Ashleigh McCrum, Area Manager at Little Rays Nursery BallymenaYour kind words about Little Rays are appreciated! We're so happy to hear your grandson is thriving with us.
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Review from Judith S (Mother of Child) published on 23 January 2024 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
My child has been attending for almost a year. They are happy and well cared for during their time there and the staff have good communication with parents.
Very child-centred care and great activities planned.
Reply from Ashleigh McCrum, Area Manager at Little Rays Nursery BallymenaIt warms our hearts to know your child is having such positive experiences at Little Rays. Thank you for sharing your review!
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Review from C M (Mother of Child) published on 18 January 2024 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
Excellent childcare facility. My child has attended for over 2 years from baby room right through to preschool. He has made some great friends and talks about the staff all the time. Can't recommend enough.
Reply from Ashleigh McCrum, Area Manager at Little Rays Nursery BallymenaThank you for taking the time to leave a review. I hope your son continues to enjoy his time in Little Rays with all his friends!
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Review from Diana M (Mother of Child) published on 18 January 2024 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
Little Rays Childcare Nursery excels in nurturing and educating children. Its welcoming, creative environment is bolstered by exceptionally attentive staff who act as friends, ensuring personalised care. The nursery adopts a holistic approach, offering diverse activities like arts, storytelling, and
outdoor play, catering to various interests and learning styles. Academically, it prepares children for future learning, integrating key skills seamlessly. The children's happiness, active participation, and friendships attest to the positive impact of Little Rays, making it a safe, enriching space for growth and exploration.
A massive thank you to all the staff for making it such a fun place for my child.
Reply from Ashleigh McCrum, Area Manager at Little Rays Nursery BallymenaThank you so much for your review, it is lovely to hear the wealth of experiences your child has gained from Little Rays.
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Review from Bronagh G (Mother of Child) published on 17 January 2024 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
Little Rays provides such a caring environment to play and learn in. The staff are all lovely. My daughter has so much fun and is very well fed. She has grown in confidence and is making so many friends. Thank you for all that you do for GG!
Reply from Ashleigh McCrum, Area Manager at Little Rays Nursery BallymenaThank you for the kind review, I hope your daughter continues to thrive in Little Rays!
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Review from V T (Mother of Child) published on 17 January 2024 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
Our son loves going to nursery, he’s 1.5 and has never had any issues, runs in and out the door, the staff are incredible and how much they care really shows. Communication is always brilliant and staff and management couldn’t be more helpful. Could not speak more highly of this daycare, and the relief
it is as a parent to be able to send your child somewhere you know they are so happy and well cared for.
Reply from Ashleigh McCrum, Area Manager at Little Rays Nursery BallymenaIt is lovely to hear the positive experience you have had with us! I hope your son continues to enjoy his days in Little Rays, thank you for taking the time to leave us a review.
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Review from Clare T (Mother of Child) published on 24 May 2023 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
I find the staff extremely caring towards my son. They have dedicated so much time in teaching him how to socialise with other children, manners, patience, kindness, and the ability to learn new activities.
My son is thriving so I no longer have that 'mum guilt'. Without Little Rays Nursery my son
wouldn’t be, in my eyes, as outgoing and advanced for three. The activities range from learning about different seasons, counting, painting, nature, culture, music, reading, and various fun activities throughout each term.
The opening hours are ideal and the meals my son is provided with are very healthy and nutritional (with the odd wee ice cream cone, which really pleases my son).
I am truly thankful, so grateful and blessed to have such a first class nursery. Thank you Little Rays. Highly recommended.
Reply from Lesley Walker, Manager at Little Rays Nursery BallymenaThank you so much for your kind words about our setting. We really appreciate you taking the time to write such lovely words. We adore having your little one in the nursery, he is a great wee boy. We can only strive to keep providing this level of care and thank you for your continued support.
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Review from Rory S (Father of Child) published on 3 May 2023 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
We enrolled our 2-year-old son in Little Rays at the start of the year to try to bring on his speech and social skills. The staff at Little Rays were very understanding and fantastic at putting us at ease during the induction period. The staff are so engaging and friendly, our son doesn't want to leave
at the end of the day! Receiving regular updates throughout the day shows us how much the staff do with the children and our son surprised us all by spontaneously bursting into song one evening. For parents worried about meeting his milestones that was an incredible moment that we credit entirely to the staff of Little Rays.
Reply from Ashleigh McCrum, Area Manager at Little Rays Nursery BallymenaThank you so much for your kind review and sharing your son's journey, we will be sure to pass this onto the team!
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Review from Michaela C (Mother of Child) published on 25 April 2023 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
Amazing and friendly staff that care for my daughter and always smiling. The interaction and activities they do are so beneficial for a child's development. Lovely atmosphere and my daughter loves attending.
Reply from Ashleigh McCrum, Area Manager at Little Rays Nursery BallymenaIt's great to hear that your daughter enjoys her time at Little Rays! Thank you for taking the time to leave us a review!
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Review from Emma K (Mother of Child) published on 24 April 2023 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
Fantastic after school, my 10-year-old loves going. She has so much fun and loves the team. She always comes home buzzing and they are extremely kind to the kids. My daughter loves the leaders. They are always very welcoming. Little Rays is like home from home.
Reply from Ashleigh McCrum, Area Manager at Little Rays Nursery BallymenaIt's great to hear that your daughter loves our afterschool! Thank you for your kind review and support of Little Rays!
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Review from Claire H (Mother of Child) published on 24 April 2023 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
Super nursery. My daughter has been attending for almost two years. She is very happy and well cared for. Staff are incredibly friendly and she has developed strong relationships with them and the other little kids in her pre-school.
Reply from Ashleigh McCrum, Area Manager at Little Rays Nursery BallymenaIt's great to hear that your daughter is building friendships with her peers and our team! Thank you for your support of the nursery and for taking the time to leave us a review!
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Current Review Score: 9.2 (9.238)

Overview of Review Score

The Review Score of 9.2 (9.238) out of 10 for Little Rays Nursery Ballymena 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 16 Reviews in the last 24 months.
  2. The score for the number of positive Reviews is 4.3 out of 5 from 16 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 4.932 for Little Rays Nursery Ballymena is calculated as follows: ( (178 Excellents x 5) + (11 Goods x 4) + (1 Satisfactorys x 3) ) ÷ 190 Ratings = 4.932
  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 4.306 Points relating to the number of positive Reviews for Little Rays Nursery Ballymena is based on 16 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 = 3.9
    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 197 number of registered child places is 39.4. 16 Positive Reviews ÷ 39.4 = 0.406
  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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