Little Acorns Pre-School

c/o Kennington Primary School, Kennington Road, Preston PR2 8ER
Review Us
9.9 46 Reviews
  • Little Acorns Pre-School, Preston
Little Acorns Pre-School Nursery is based on the outskirts of Fulwood, Preston in Lancashire and is a charity run setting that operates in the grounds of Kennington Primary school.

The setting has been operating for over 25 years and has a current Outstanding Ofsted rating (October 2024).

At Little Acorns children are engaged in a fun and supporting environment, where children learn through play, in a mixture of indoor and outdoor activities. All the staff are warm, friendly and truly care about children.

The setting provides strong links with parents and ensure parents feel valued, listened too and respected. Staff learn to know children well and provide regular reports and updates.
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Funding & Fees

We offer a range of Goverment funded sessions Monday to Friday
8.30 to 11.30
12.15 to 3.15
8.30 to 3.15.
Tue to Thursday 8.30 to 5.30
2 year olds £19.50 per session
3 year olds £16.00 per session
Extended session 8.30 to 3.15 £5.00

Contact Little Acorns Pre-School to get a personalised quote.

Contact Little Acorns Pre-School to get a personalised quote.

Type of Service

  • Nursery School
  • Open term time
  • Full Day Care
  • Sessional Day Care

Owner

  • Little Acorns Pre-School
  • Voluntary / Not for Profit Owned

Person in Charge

  • Alison Shepherd (Manager)

Number of Childcare Staff

  • 7

Registered Charity Number

  • 1136626

Total Places for Children

  • 36

Age Range

  • from 2 years 0 months
  • to 5 years 0 months

Opening Times

  • Monday 08:00-15:15
    Tuesday 08:00-17:30
    Wednesday 08:00-17:30
    Thursday 08:00-17:30
    Friday 08:00-15:15

When Closed

  • School Holidays

Little Acorns Pre-School Reviews (46)

9.9

Little Acorns Pre-School has a Review Score of 9.9 (9.869) out of 10, based on 16 reviews in the last 2 years.
Over all time Little Acorns Pre-School has 46 reviews.

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Total of 46, showing 1-20
Review from B G (Father of Child) published on 12 March 2026 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
Fantastic, Brillant and professional staffs and management, always helpful, supportive and friendly. My daughter loves it and so do I. Will definitely recommend it to anyone. Good setup and curriculum. Well done to them!
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Review from N A (Mother of Child) published on 27 February 2026 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
The introductory visit we had beforehand was excellent and really helped us feel confident in our decision, and from the moment our child joined the nursery, he has had a wonderful experience and genuinely looks forward to attending each day.
We feel the nursery provides a warm, welcoming atmosphere
for both children and parents, and the staff are consistently polite and professional. In particular, we appreciate the thoughtful feedback the teachers share, as well as the activity photos posted on the app, which we really value.
The nursery's facilities are excellent, and the wide range of engaging, high-quality activities has been fantastic for our child's development.
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Review from Sabnam M (Mother of Child) published on 27 February 2026 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
We are so happy with this nursery. The staff are caring, professional, and genuinely invested in the children's development. Our child feels safe, happy, and excited to attend every day. We've seen wonderful progress and couldn't recommend them more highly.
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Review from Fez A (Father of Child) published on 27 February 2026 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
Amazing nursery settings and lovely caring staff , great indoor and outdoor areas plenty spaces for kids to be kids ,
Would highly recommend this nursery to anyone that's looking for a good one!
My daughter is comfortable and confident within the setting and it's all thanks to the lovely staff who
are so wonderful and welcoming ,
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Review from Nada A (Mother of Child) published on 27 February 2026 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
Perfect place for any child. Big thanks for All of the lovely team and very happy to share my experience with my son's nursery. From the very first day, I felt that the staff genuinely care about each child's well-being and development. The nursery provides a warm and welcoming environment where children
feel safe, loved, and encouraged to explore and learn.
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Review from Siobhan O (Mother of Child) published on 27 February 2026 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
Absolutely amazing staff very friendly & welcoming. Amazing with all children and takes every individual need into consideration, keeps parents updated regularly on child's day to day activities and achievements.
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Review from Z A (Mother of Child) published on 27 February 2026 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
I am extremely happy with the care and support my child has received at this nursery. The staff are warm, attentive and genuinely dedicated to each child's development. I've seen such positive growth in my child's confidence, communication and social skills since starting here.
The activities are engaging
and varied and it's clear that a lot of thought goes into creating a safe and stimulating environment. Communication with parents is also excellent, which gives us real peace of mind.
We're very grateful for the wonderful start you've given our child and would highly recommend this nursery to other families.
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Review from Nimeelita Y (Mother of Child) published on 21 February 2026 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
I would like to take a moment to express my heartfelt appreciation to all the staff at the nursery. The care and dedication they show goes far beyond simply doing a job - it truly comes from a place of compassion and genuine commitment to the children.
The love, patience, and nurturing environment they
provide every day is deeply valued and immensely appreciated. As a parent, it is incredibly reassuring to know that my child is surrounded by such caring and attentive professionals.
When my child was identified with a developmental delay, the support we received from the nursery was outstanding. The team not only guided us with clarity and understanding regarding the concerns, but they also took proactive steps in handling the necessary paperwork and submissions to the relevant support teams. Their guidance and involvement made a process that could have felt overwhelming much more manageable. Honestly, I do not know how I would have navigated this journey without their continued support
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Review from F A (Mother of Child) published on 18 March 2025 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
After having not a good experience at my son's previous nursery, we decided to visit Little Acorns through recommendation. As soon as we walked in my son who has delayed development took to it. We instantly felt it was the place for him, the nursery was well organised, different play themes for the
little ones to explore which the staff rotate on a regular basis giving the little ones a chance to learn different things, the cleanliness of the nursery is above and beyond. The staff are all highly experienced, mature who come with much life experiences, they have been there a long time, they are an absolute blessing to the little ones, the initial welcome and introduction was very thorough everything was explained in detail. It's been 7 months for our little one and he's come along way, the staff initiated all the support for our son. Communication is excellent always keep us informed and up to date. Staff ensure that clothes and nappies are changed regularly. Thank you
Reply from Alison Shepherd, Manager at Little Acorns Pre-SchoolThank you so much for such kind words. We love providing new experiences for the children and through this we can see that the children are thriving and making so much progress.
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Review from Jackie L (Mother of Child) published on 17 March 2025 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
My son went to this pre school in 2018 and after his experience there, I knew that if I had any more children they HAD to come here. As soon as my 2nd child turned 2, I applied for her place and so glad I did because the preschool is everything I remember it to be and more, was lovely that all the staff
was familiar and have been there a long time. The effort they put into the children is unmatched . Both of my children went to different nurseries before they were 2 years old and came here and nothing compares to Little Acorns. They have gotten to know my daughter so well, like they did my son, know her likes and dislikes etc! Know how to calm her down, I will continue to recommend this setting to anyone who is looking. It's a homely; friendly but also professional environment. The children are so lovely they always greet you if they're playing outside and the children play so lovely together. Wonderful team of staff and children. x
Reply from Alison Shepherd, Manager at Little Acorns Pre-SchoolThank you so much for your amazing review. We really do love all the children like they are our own.
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Review from S Y (Mother of Child) published on 17 March 2025 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
Fantastic nursery and preschool. My son has come so far thanks to the managers and teachers. He is so confident and made friends with everyone. Lots of opportunities for parents to get involved and fun interactive events for good bonding with parents and child. Will be sending his brother to the same
nursery. Cannot recommend Little Acorns enough. Everyone has made us feel very welcome.
Reply from Alison Shepherd, Manager at Little Acorns Pre-SchoolThank you so much we really appreciate your kind words.
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Review from S G (Mother of Child) published on 17 March 2025 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
Amazing staff with so much heart and caring mindset. Both my children attended this nursery. The teachers go that extra mile to engage with the kids and develop them in a very individualised way. The management is very committed to providing a safe clean fun and loving environment. As parents we are
very thankful to the whole team so glad I chose little acorns preschool!
Reply from Alison Shepherd, Manager at Little Acorns Pre-SchoolThank you this is such a lovely review and we all appreciate your kind words
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Review from Emma E (Mother of Child) published on 25 February 2025 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
Lovely nursery! My little girl started at Little Acorns about a year ago and is absolutely thriving thanks to their care and dedication. All the staff are caring and welcoming to parents and children. Any concerns, they call me promptly and send updates about my little one regularly. She loves going
to the nursery and has great relationships with staff members and other children. Can't wait for my little boy to start going when he's old enough!
Reply from Alison Shepherd, Manager at Little Acorns Pre-SchoolThank you so much for your kind words. We love seeing her smiley face in the morning.
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Review from Jessica F (Mother of Child) published on 10 February 2025 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
I've had both my children attend Little Acorns Pre-School. The nursery always goes above and beyond to make sure my child is happy and enjoying her time at nursery. The staff are friendly and supportive and keep me informed and up to date with my child's progress at all times. Highly recommend.
Reply from Alison Shepherd, Manager at Little Acorns Pre-SchoolThank you for such kind words about the setting. We love providing a wide range of activities for the children and look forward to seeing them everyday.
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Review from I J (Mother of Child) published on 14 November 2024 Submitted via Postal Card • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
Choosing Little Acorns Pre-School is the best decision me and my partner have made. Our daughter has flourished since attending last year and she continues to show growth in her development, learning and social skills everyday. The communication with Little Acorns is second to none, they always keep
us informed of topics they are focusing on each term, ideas for learning at home, daily activities and everything in between.
Every single member of staff is incredibly helpful and friendly and they are always available on drop-off or pick-ups to give an update on the day. I could not recommend enough to anyone looking for a preschool for their child, outstanding in every way.
Reply from Alison Shepherd, Manager at Little Acorns Pre-SchoolThank you for such kind words. All the staff try hard throughout the year to provide interesting and exciting activities to support children's learning and development.
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Review from Jenny M (Mother of Child) published on 30 September 2024 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
I wanted to express my view on this wonderful Nursery in the hope it will reach lots of other parents who are searching for the perfect one! My Son has just started in September after a long 12 months of never settling into his previous Nursery. I had prepared myself for weeks of crying and was very
surprised this wasn't the case. He settled extremely well, within a couple of days. He's made lots of new friends and I can finally drop him off without feeling guilty all day at work. You instantly get a warm feeling when you enter, just feels like home. My only regret is not moving him sooner. Extremely pleased with how soon he settled in and not only do I have a happy, content son, I also feel the same. I would recommend this place to everyone. Thank you so much to his key worker - he's insisted I bring you a 'love heart' cupcake in this week! Thank you to everyone involved - especially the manager who went above and beyond for us.
Reply from Alison Shepherd, Manager at Little Acorns Pre-SchoolAfter our conversation we were prepared for him being upset for a long time but he soon settled and has a beautiful big smile when he arrives and is doing so well. Thank you for the lovely comment.
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Review from Sophie K (Mother of Child) published on 18 December 2023 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
All the staff are great and I couldn’t have picked a better nursery/preschool! So happy how my little girl has come on since starting. They tackle any problems and help as much as they can between home and school time. They have activities to do all the time... sing songs... lots of learning between
outside and inside. Overall it’s great and I can’t fault the Little Acorns team, 100% effort all the time, they are very understanding and very caring... my little girl loves each and every single one of the staff members.
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Review from C S (Mother of Child) published on 13 December 2023 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
A very safe and caring environment for the children, and my daughter loves coming to nursery each day and has a great bond with her teachers and the other children, she’s always happy to be there.
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Review from Bincy B (Mother of Child) published on 13 December 2023 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 4.0 out of 5
I like the school very much. The teachers are also good. My child also likes to go to nursery every day. All teachers are putting good effort into teaching the children. Every day my child is doing a lot of activities. My child learns a lot from this nursery.
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Review from S E (Mother of Child) published on 13 December 2023 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
I am so happy that I made the decision to send my daughter to this amazing nursery, I wouldn’t have her anywhere else. The staff are brilliant, they always go above and beyond for each and every child. My daughter is so happy here, she has come on leaps and bounds since she started and she absolutely
loves going. They do so many different activities for the children, welly walks, picnics, stay and play sessions and so much more. I would recommend this nursery to any parent wanting to start the child’s journey into nursery. I finally feel like I can go to work with my mind at rest knowing my child is happy and well cared for. Thank you so much.
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Current Review Score: 9.9 (9.869)

Overview of Review Score

The Review Score of 9.9 (9.869) out of 10 for Little Acorns Pre-School 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 16 Reviews in the last 24 months.
  2. The score for the number of positive Reviews is 4.9 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 4.969 for Little Acorns Pre-School is calculated as follows: ( (185 Excellents x 5) + (6 Goods x 4) ) ÷ 191 Ratings = 4.969
  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 4.9 Points relating to the number of positive Reviews for Little Acorns Pre-School 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 36 number of registered child places is 7.2, which has been reached with 16 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 (7)

Meet the Team (6)

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Alison Shepherd

Job Title: Manager Joined: 2005

Hi, have worked at the setting for over 20 years and have been a manager at the setting for 17 years. I hold a foundation degree, in paediatric first aid and food hygiene. I keep up to date with all the changes by attending meetings and reading.


I enjoy working with children and spend a lot of my time looking at ways to improve the setting and new ideas. During the holidays I look after my grandchild and we like to go for days out.

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Stephanie Jenkinson

Job Title: Deputy Manager Joined: 2002

I have been a nursery practitioner for over 20 years and have been at Little Acorns for 10 years where I am SENCO. I am NNEB qualified, hold paediatric first, and food hygiene.
I am a kind and caring person and have a passion for child development.


My hobbies are reading and spending time with my family.

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Jennifer Carr

Job Title: Nursery Practitioner

I am a qualified level 3 practitioner and have worked in childcare for over 20 years. I hold first aid and food hygiene and keep up to date with relevant changes.


I enjoy creative and sensory activities with the children. I also enjoy activities outdoors in all weather.


During my spare time, I like days out with my 3 children, going for walks and having film nights.

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Amanda O'Rouke

Job Title: Nursery Practitioner Joined: 1997

I qualified in 1997 as a level 3 practitioner. Over the years I have worked in a variety of settings including school nurseries and children's centres. As my own children are almost adults now I enjoy working with all age ranges of children and get a real sense of achievement seeing them develop and progress into their own little people.

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Stacy Lakeland

Job Title: Nursery Practitioner Joined: 1998

I have been a nursery practitioner for 24 years and worked at Little Acorns for 6 of them. I am qualified NVQ level 2 and 3 and hold first aid, food hygiene and safeguarding.


I have 2 children and together we enjoy going for walks. My hobbies are spending time with my family and socialising with friends.

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Jasvinder Kaur-Singh

Job Title: Nursery Practitioner Joined: 2007

I am qualified to level 3 practitioner and up to date with the relevant qualifications that enable me to be a good practitioner. I have worked in childcare for 15 years and have 2 children of my own. I enjoy spending time with my family I also enjoy reading and cooking.

Frequently Asked Questions about Little Acorns Pre-School

What is the Age Range of Children that Little Acorns Pre-School accepts?

Little Acorns Pre-School accepts Children aged from 2 years 0 months to 5 years 0 months.

What Days & Hours is Little Acorns Pre-School Open?

Little Acorns Pre-School is open: Monday 08:00-15:15, Tuesday 08:00-17:30, Wednesday 08:00-17:30, Thursday 08:00-17:30, Friday 08:00-15:15.

How many Children does Little Acorns Pre-School have capacity for?

Little Acorns Pre-School has capacity for a total of 36 Children.

How far is Little Acorns Pre-School to the centre of Preston?

1.1 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 Little Acorns Pre-School to verify any information. View our terms and conditions. Little Acorns Pre-School has an Enhanced Service - more info.