Willows Farm Day Nursery

Willows Activity Farm, Coursers Road, London Colney, St Albans AL4 0PF
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9.8 115 Reviews
  • Willows Farm Day Nursery, St Albans
Willows Farm Day Nursery & Pre-School in London Colney, near St Albans, offers high-quality childcare and early years education for children aged 0 to 5.
Set within the beautiful surroundings of Willows Activity Farm, the nature-based nursery gives children the freedom to explore, learn, and grow through play.

Willows Farm Day Nursery follow the Forest School approach, encouraging confidence, independence, and curiosity through outdoor learning and hands-on experiences. From caring for animals to planting seeds in the gardens, every day is an opportunity for discovery.

Conveniently located just off the M25, Willows Farm Day Nursery welcome families from St Albans, London Colney, and across Hertfordshire.
The qualified team provides a nurturing environment with dedicated baby, toddler, and pre-school rooms, plus access to funded childcare places for eligible families.

Discover why parents call Willows Farm Day Nursery one of the best nurseries in St Albans for outdoor, farm-based learning - book a visit to Willows Farm Day Nursery & Pre-School today.
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Funding & Fees

Full-day session: 7:30 am - 6:30 pm
Morning session: 7:30 am - 1:00 pm
Afternoon session: 1:00 pm - 6:30 pm

Each situation is different and bespoke to your childcare needs. To find out more about our fees, please do get in touch so we are able to build a profile and give you a breakdown of what we believe best suits your child’s needs.

Contact Willows Farm Day Nursery to get a personalised quote.

Contact Willows Farm Day Nursery to get a personalised quote.

Type of Service

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

Group/Owner

Person in Charge

  • Lucy Nicholson (Senior Childcare Manager)

Number of Childcare Staff

  • 70

Total Places for Children

  • 188

Age Range

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

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 & Christmas

Willows Farm Day Nursery Reviews (115)

9.8

Willows Farm Day Nursery has a Review Score of 9.8 (9.838) out of 10, based on 50 reviews in the last 2 years.
Over all time Willows Farm Day Nursery has 115 reviews.

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Total of 115, showing 81-100
Review from Rach (Mother of Child) published on 19 November 2020 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 4.0 out of 5
The nursery is such a great setting for little ones, they love going out on the farm and the great space there is. The staff are all so friendly and genuinely really care about my children which is such a comfort.
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Review from Stephanie T (Mother of Child) published on 13 November 2020 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
My son has settled in so well at nursery, he seems so happy here and always has a day full of fun activities. I love that Willows Nursery uses the farm as part of their day and I hear nothing but good things from all the other parents that use this nursery. My son has been to a previous nursery and
he never fully seemed to settle but he is a different child here at Willows.
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Review from Sophie T (Mother of Child) published on 10 November 2020 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
My son has attended Willows Nursery since he was six months old, and I cannot recommend the setting enough. The staff are caring, genuine and passionate, they know him so well, what makes him laugh, what things he enjoys doing and they always go above and beyond to ensure he has the best day with his
little friends. Being a working mum I always have slight guilt that he has been in childcare, but he is being looked after by Willows makes me feel so much better. He loves going to Pre School now, the garden is huge with lots of activities in. He enjoys going on regular trips to the farm to see the Peter Rabbit shows, on Tristan the Tractor and seeing all the animals. He has been transitioned between rooms extremely well, with the staff knowing a lot about him. He's moved from the baby room all the way to Pre School. Highly recommend for anyone looking for nature-based childcare.
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Review from Victoria C (Mother of Child) published on 26 October 2020 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
My son loves going to Willows nursery, he waves to the animals as we drive along the road and can’t wait to go in when we arrive! All staff are warm, friendly and give a thorough debrief on my son's day. He loves the outside and seems to get plenty of time doing activities and going to the farm; if
he had his way he would be outside all day! I would highly recommend Willows, my son has attended since he was 6 months and he is coming up to 2.5 and he is progressing very well. My 2nd son is due to start in January, he will be 6 months and it makes it that little bit easier going back to work knowing he is in such great hands.
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Review from Emma C (Mother of Child) published on 26 October 2020 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
Willows Farm is an amazing nursery that both my children have thrived and grown in. The staff are all extremely friendly and nurturing and give their all to ensure a safe and fun environment. The facilities are like no other and the children get to experience the fresh country air and fun on the farm.
They have always been so accommodating and supporting all our childcare needs and continue to grow to provide a wonderful place for my children to thrive.
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Review from Linda W (Mother of Child) published on 26 October 2020 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
After looking at a number of nurseries for my 1-year-old daughter (at the time), I had no doubt that Willows was the best by far for outdoor space. My son now attends Willows and has since he was 1 year old and now nearly 4 years old. It is a fabulous nursery/pre-school. What drew me was having outside
space and visits to the farm and the fun and care he receives whilst there. He has had so much fun and learning whilst at Willows and as he will be starting school next September I will be very sad not to be taking him to Willows pre-school anymore. He has been very lucky to have such a great nursery/pre-school. My daughter and son will look back on their early years there with great fondness. My daughter is still in touch with friends she made whilst there. The staff work really hard and have really excelled throughout the extra difficulties of Covid and still try to make it as fun and nurturing as they can in very difficult circumstances.
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Review from Emma N (Mother of Child) published on 26 October 2020 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
Couldn’t think of a better place for our child to attend nursery - the addition of the farm and the safe outdoor environment is a huge added bonus. One of the greatest strengths is the staff - They are so kind and caring and we are very impressed with all the things our little boy comes home with having
learnt or done during the day. We have a lot of confidence in the nursery and the staff and couldn’t ask for more.
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Review from Katie F (Mother of Child) published on 26 October 2020 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
All staff at Willows Farm Nursery have been absolutely brilliant with my son. He started at 1 year old and settled very quickly with no issues. We get daily feedback at the end of each day from his key worker on how much he has eaten, slept, dirty nappies and play highlights. Some of the massive plus
points for us was that the kids get to go out and see the farm animals, there are nice large indoor and outdoor areas for each age group, plenty of parking and they serve a range of great meals (mix of hot and cold) and snacks to ensure a varied diet. They do a range of exciting activities with the kids that really activate different areas of their learning and development through play. A big thank you to all the staff but especially to our key worker who has been exceptional and always has a smile on her face!
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Review from Lee H (Father of Child) published on 26 October 2020 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
We couldn’t recommend this nursery enough, our little one has attended the setting since he was 6 months old, he’s now 3 and absolutely loves going every day! He always goes in with the biggest smile on his face and leaves telling me “he’s done everything today!” He loves the weekly visits to Willows
Farm, seeing the animals, playing on the adventure play areas and even seeing the Peter Rabbit shows. The staff are kind, caring and always ensure all of his needs are met going above and beyond! He has a great bond with his key worker and has made lots of little friends along the way. He absolutely loves going to preschool! Would recommend to anyone looking for a nature-based, outdoor-focused nursery!
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Review from Colette B (Mother of Child) published on 26 October 2020 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
We are so thrilled with Willows Farm Day Nursery. My daughter gets to explore the farm, has made loads of friends and loves her key workers. There is a family feel about this nursery, and the atmosphere from drop off to pick up is one where all staff and children are happy. Highly recommend.
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Review from Dave H (Father of Child) published on 26 October 2020 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
I spent a lot of time researching local nurseries and talking to other parents and after visiting Willows Farm with my mother in tow who is a retired headteacher, it was a no brainer. Willows nursery won based on their ethos, organisation and structure. The bonus is it's on a farm and they take the
children to visit an animal every day. I honestly believe the care and education she receives has helped her develop at a rate of knots. I am looking at moving to Bedfordshire and if I do we will still bring our daughter to Willows Farm. If you are a parent looking for a nursery, look no further. They have looked after my daughter since she was 6 months old and she adores her keyworkers and is absolutely thriving. I am beyond happy with our decision to choose Willows Farm Nursery.
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Review from Gabrielle R (Mother of Child) published on 20 October 2020 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 4.0 out of 5
My child has recently just started at Willows Nursery and so far we are very pleased with our experience so far. Great communication between staff and parents, even in this difficult time. They have really helped my child settle and been understanding and caring even when he was poorly. They seem to
be building a great relationship with my child which is reassuring and makes it easier when dropping him off.
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Review from Emily S (Mother of Child) published on 20 October 2020 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
We have been part of the Willows nursery journey from September 2013 to July 2020 as both my daughters very much enjoyed their time here. It was a brand new nursery and we immediately knew it was right for us. The setting on a farm was so unique and because of this, both girls have a great love and
confidence with animals. The staff have always been amazing, such a pleasure to talk to at drop off and pick up and a lot of the ‘originals’ are still there. They continue to do more and work really hard. My children have flourished from being here and are continuing their Willows journey with the Kids Camp- it is their second home!
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Review from B F (Mother of Child) published on 20 October 2020 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
Absolutely wonderful. Cannot fault them. The site is amazing, the building is lovely and spacious. Even the car parking facilities are great and easy. The staff make you feel so welcome every morning, they remember your child's name and are familiar with the parents. They all greet the children as though
they are so happy to see them. Throughout the day the children seem to have so much fun. The tiered room system is fantastic and each room is packed full of activities and lovely outdoor space. They seem to go around the farm every day and every age gets to go. The staff and managers are wonderful - always happy and smiling. They cannot do enough for you and your family. We have been at Willows nursery for 5 years now and will be there for another 4 at least. We are so happy leaving our children in their care and when our youngest reaches school age, we will be sad to have to leave Willows nursery.
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Review from Mandy Z (Mother of Child) published on 20 October 2020 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
We can not recommend this nursery enough. Our son has been attending since he was 10 months old and thoroughly enjoys his days at nursery. During the last few months, they have gone above and beyond for our family making sure our son resettled after a period of absence and supporting him in the transition
of becoming a big brother. Staff are always welcoming and friendly. They know all the children and families by name and are extremely approachable. They know our son's next steps and ask us for regular feedback to support his development. I think when a two-year-old wakes up in the morning asking for nursery that speaks a 1000 words.
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Review from Komal A (Mother of Child) published on 20 October 2020 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
I was quite nervous to send my daughter to nursery especially with the covid situation but Willows has been amazing, she was settled in prior to lockdown and then was off for 3 months. She quickly settled back in and Willows have been amazing and ensuring she is happy and I am reassured. She loves her
days there and she has learnt so much since joining them.
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Review from Eloise H (Mother of Child) published on 20 October 2020 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
My son has attended Willows since he was one and we cannot fault it. He loves it and the staff seem to adore him, which makes us feel very confident that he is in the right place. They are always accommodating and willing to go the extra mile to help him and teach him.
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Review from Nikki (Mother of Child) published on 20 October 2020 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
Absolutely fantastic nursery, my daughter has been going there for 6 months now and she absolutely loves it. She comes home so happy every day she goes and the staff have a brilliant rapport with her. She has learnt and developed so much during her time there and they really encourage her. She loves
going to the farm. Can’t fault them in any way!
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Review from Gem E (Mother of Child) published on 8 November 2019 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
We moved our three-year-old daughter from another nursery. We were so blown away by the professionalism and warmth of the staff at Willows, right from the initial look around to setting up the account with admin, carefully co-ordinating the settling in sessions. You really feel that everybody that works
there, cares about what they do and your child and you. Our daughter settled so quickly and literally begs us each day to stay there longer. What impresses me most is the way that they do everything they can to accommodate your needs and be flexible where they can, which as a parent is massively important and very much appreciated. We enrolled our younger son into there pre-toddlers room too and love the way there are things like Heartbeeps for the little ones to enjoy in addition to the regular farm visits. We wouldn’t want our kids to go anywhere else, and I feel there is no other nursery that offers what Willows does. It is a truly special place, and I will be sad when my kids leave.
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Review from Grace D (Mother of Child) published on 7 November 2019 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
A unique and special nursery, the new pre-school managerial team is fantastic, they’ve brought the school to a whole other level.
I have a little girl who skips in happy every morning. I have every faith and trust in them to look after our daughter to an exceptional standard.
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Current Review Score: 9.8 (9.838)

Overview of Review Score

The Review Score of 9.8 (9.838) out of 10 for Willows Farm Day Nursery 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 50 Reviews in the last 24 months.
  2. The score for the number of positive Reviews is 5.0 out of 5 from 48 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 4.838 for Willows Farm Day Nursery is calculated as follows: ( (523 Excellents x 5) + (61 Goods x 4) + (8 Satisfactorys x 3) + (4 Poors x 2) + (2 Very Poors x 1) ) ÷ 598 Ratings = 4.838
  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 Willows Farm Day Nursery is based on 48 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 + 0.025 + 0.025 + 0.025 + 0.025 = 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 188 number of registered child places is 37.6, which has been reached with 48 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 (1)

Meet the Team (1)

Lucy

Lucy Nicholson

Job Title: Senior Childcare Manager

Hi, I’m Lucy Nicholson, Senior Childcare Manager of Willows Farm Day Nursery & Pre-School! Our Day Nursery offers childcare full of discovery and rich learning experiences, with the daily opportunity to meet the farm animals and enjoy forest school sessions in the great outdoors. We are located in the heart of the countryside of St. Albans, where we provide our children with the best in early year’s education and learn through the ‘Planning in the moment’ child-led teaching approach.

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