Arcadia @ Kings Buildings

Kings Buildings, University of Edinburgh, Max Born Crescent, Edinburgh EH9 3BF
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9.9 27 Reviews
  • Arcadia @ Kings Buildings, Edinburgh
Arcadia is a purpose-designed nursery, opened in 2014, designed by award-winning architect Malcolm Fraser. Established to give early years children an ideal setting in which they can learn and develop. The design is based on supporting free play and giving children the chance to learn new skills and interests. As well as light, bright and flexible internal spaces Arcadia Kings Building has large outdoor spaces for children to grow and learn.

Meals are enjoyed in an open plan shared dining space and are freshly prepared each day by chefs.
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Type of Service

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

Group/Owner

Person in Charge

  • Vivi Koumati (Manager)

Number of Childcare Staff

  • 28

Total Places for Children

  • 113

Age Range

  • from 0 years 3 months
  • to 5 years 0 months

Funding & Fees

  • Our fees include all meals, snacks, nappies and wipes.

  • In partnership with Edinburgh City Council, 1140 hours funded places are also available.

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

  • 2 weeks at Christmas & 3 In Service Days

Arcadia @ Kings Buildings Reviews (27)

9.9

Arcadia @ Kings Buildings has a Review Score of 9.9 (9.907) out of 10, based on 25 reviews in the last 2 years.
Over all time Arcadia @ Kings Buildings has 27 reviews.

Overall Experience
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Reviewer Connection to Arcadia @ Kings Buildings
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Total of 27, showing 1-20
Review from M W (Mother of Child) published on 30 September 2025 Submitted via Postal Card • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
Arcadia is a caring and experienced setting. Both our children have thrived here. I recommend whole heartedly.
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Review from Euan K (Father of Child) published on 23 September 2025 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
We have been continuously impressed with the staff and their authentic care of the children at Arcadia nursery. Our daughter has grown there, starting in Harmony and now in Serenity. She has thrived in the setting and that is fully attributable to the nurture and care she has been given at Arcadia.


Recently, my wife went to collect our daughter for a GP appointment. When she entered the room, the staff didn't immediately notice her but my wife saw that they were plaiting my daughter's hair, speaking softly and kindly to her while she prepared for her doctor's appointment. It was just a small moment that represented all that we value about this nursery. Highly recommend.

Reply from Laura Brownlee, Head of Nursery Operations at Arcadia @ Kings Buildings
Many Thanks for such a heartfelt review. On behalf of everyone at Arcadia KB we appreciate you taking the time to do this.
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Review from L M (Father of Child) published on 22 September 2025 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
Overall we are very happy with our experience at the nursary. Some points below:
-Nice facilities on site
-Opportunities for activities that are fun and stimulating such as sensory play and catapiller music (note some external parties can cost extra)
-The staff communicate well about our childs daily
routine and activities which as a parent is great to hear about. Although we have noticed some staff are better at doing this than others
- Any concerns we have raised have always been dealt with swiftly by management.
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Review from M K (Mother of Child) published on 22 September 2025 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
We love the staff at Arcadia. The setting is so child-centred and the staff are brilliant with every kid. They give excellent detailed feedback each day and you get the sense that they do love what they do. Our daughter has been at Arcadia since she was <1 year old and she had absolutely flourished.
She is challenged every day and brings that learning home with her.
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Review from C S (Mother of Child) published on 22 September 2025 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 4.0 out of 5
Arcadia is an excellent nursery with lovely outdoor space that the children utilise almost every day. We enjoy being able to get daily feedback as this also allow us to get to know the staff (who are always very friendly). We would highly recommend it!
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Review from Fiona E (Mother of Child) published on 22 September 2025 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 4.0 out of 5
Arcadia is great. We have had 2 children move through and they have been well cared for with friendly and kind staff who get to know them as individuals. Good range of nutritious food with lovely chefs on site. The facilities are super- every room is carefully designed and the gardens are brilliant.
We are very happy with it and so is our child!
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Review from Donal R (Father of Child) published on 16 September 2025 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
Really happy with this nursery. The staff are super friendly and you can tell they really care about the kids. The place is always clean and feels safe, which is a big thing for me. I get regular updates on how my little boy is getting on. It's nice to know what he's been up to during the day. There
are loads of fun activities to keep him busy and he always comes home smiling (and sometimes tired out, which is a bonus!). The location works really well for us, and the price is fair compared to others we looked at. Honestly can't fault it and would definitely recommend to other parents.
Reply from Laura Brownlee, Head of Nursery Operations at Arcadia @ Kings Buildings
Hello,We really appreciate your lovely feedback, many thanks for taking time to do this. From all at Arcadia KB.
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Review from Shaun C (Father of Child) published on 28 March 2025 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
We've been very pleased with the care and attention our son receives at Arcadia Nursery. The staff are kind, nurturing, and professional, creating an environment where children feel safe and well looked after. The facilities are excellent, with activities that encourage creativity, learning, and social
development.
One feature we really value is their use of the app. The nursery regularly uploads photos, which gives us insight into our son's day and helps us feel more connected to his experiences. This level of communication is something we genuinely appreciate.
It's clear that the team at Arcadia takes the time to understand each child and adapt their approach accordingly. We're glad to have found a nursery that feels like a good fit for our little one.
Reply from Laura Brownlee, Head of Nursery Operations at Arcadia @ Kings Buildings
We really appreciate you taking the time to leave such a lovely review. Many Thanks from all at Arcadia KB.
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Review from Ruairidh H (Father of Child) published on 27 March 2025 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
It's a great nursery full of caring people who are constantly trying new ways and approaches to engage the children.
It's a nice modern facility too with lots of different gardens to explore. There's also ample parking for easy drop offs, which many nurseries lack.
We have had kids here since 2019
and are so, so happy to leave them each morning!
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Review from N B (Mother of Child) published on 27 March 2025 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
My son has been in Arcadia for a year and 4 months. He's recently moved into the Peace room. The transition between Harmony and Peace went very well and the staff made this a smooth one. He continues to thrive under the supervision of the staff while learning through a variety of activities that he
is involved in every day. Daily communication from the staff about what my son has done is very helpful. My son loves to go to nursery every day to see his friends and the friendly staff who are always welcoming and happy to see each and every child who arrives in the morning. Now the weather is getting better the garden has become one of my son's favourite activities and with the resources available in the garden he can run around with his friends or pretend play whether making mud pies or riding bikes. I continue to be very impressed with Arcadia and would recommend it 100% to anyone who needs their child(ren) looked after.
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Review from Prema H (Mother of Child) published on 9 September 2024 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
Our baby had a tough time settling, but the team worked patiently with us and him to ensure his comfort and incorporation into the routine there. He absolutely loves the team there now and won't even let me kiss him goodbye anymore as he just wants to jump out of the car to get there faster. He was
always reluctant to leave our side, so this is a huge change for him and one that wouldn't have happened without the excellence of the team and environment there! Care is also given to manage our son's allergies, and there is a process in place to help manage flare-ups, monitor conditions and administer prescribed supplies. Food is prepared on-site, so can be customised for individual allergy needs. The team are friendly and professional and while they are very much child-first (as they should be!), they also respect the concerns of parents and work with them to overcome what is needed for the benefit of the child. We recommend Arcadia Kings Buildings and give a special shout out to the team there!
Reply from Laura Brownlee, Head of Nursery Operations at Arcadia @ Kings Buildings
On behalf of Team KB, we can't thank you enough for such a wonderful review. We are so happy that you and your family are having such a positive experience with us.
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Review from Daniela I (Mother of Child) published on 4 September 2024 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
We enrolled our son at Arcadia Nursery nine months ago when he was still very young (younger than most would expect, but circumstances did not leave us much choice). Looking back, it was the best decision we could have made. The facilities are amazing, and the staff is genuinely dedicated to each child's
well-being and development. As two foreigners with demanding jobs and no family nearby, we were worried about starting nursery so early. But with short maternity leave and no extra help, it was our only option. Thankfully, he quickly bonded with his nanny and the staff, which was a relief (though I'll admit I felt a bit jealous!). The social interaction and gentle peer pressure have helped his development too; he has even hit some milestones early. Arcadia has become like an extended family for us, and we're incredibly thankful for the care they've provided to our son (and, by extension, to us). We highly recommend Arcadia Nursery. They've been a real lifesaver.
Reply from Laura Brownlee, Head of Nursery Operations at Arcadia @ Kings Buildings
On behalf of Everyone at Arcadia, we are glad to hear how well your son is doing at nursery, thank you very much for your kind words. We appreciate you taking the time to give us such positive…read more
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Review from Dominika B (Mother of Child) published on 8 March 2024 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
I cannot speak highly enough of the outstanding care and support provided by the dedicated staff. From the moment we enrolled our child, it was evident that Arcadia Nursery is committed to meeting the individual needs of each child in their care. One of the most impressive aspects of Arcadia Nursery
is its dedication to working closely with parents. The staff communicates openly and regularly, ensuring that parents are kept informed and involved in their child's experiences and progress. What truly sets Arcadia Nursery apart is its genuine commitment to understanding and nurturing each child's unique personality, interests, and developmental milestones. The staff creates a nurturing and stimulating environment where children feel safe, valued, and encouraged to explore and learn. We are grateful for the caring staff who go above and beyond to support our child's growth and development. We feel fortunate to be part of such a wonderful community.
Reply from Laura Brownlee, Head of Nursery Operations at Arcadia @ Kings Buildings
Thank you! This review really means a lot to the team at Arcadia @ Kings Buildings, we are very thankful to have such a great team and for them to be recognised is lovely. We are glad you have had…read more
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Review from A J (Father of Child) published on 8 March 2024 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
I have 2 children who have attended Arcadia @ Kings Buildings and I am very happy with the nursery. In all rooms, the staff are friendly and pleasant and give great communication about my child. Both children developed excellent relationships with staff members who are fully invested in the children
and making sure they learn and have fun throughout the day.
Reply from Laura Brownlee, Head of Nursery Operations at Arcadia @ Kings Buildings
Many thanks for taking the time to leave us such a kind review, we really appreciate it.
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Review from Carolyn N (Mother of Child) published on 7 March 2024 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
Have nothing negative to say about this nursery. My daughter has thrived there and loves it. Menus are excellent, really great experience of foods and textures, the facilities are always clean, staff always friendly and approachable. Most importantly my little girl has her needs met and there is regular
communication about her day (nappies/seep/food eaten etc). She comes home happy and clean and we have peace of mind that she’s been well looked after in the best facilities. Opening hours are good for the 8am working parents and the price includes everything which is superb.
Reply from Laura Brownlee, Head of Nursery Operations at Arcadia @ Kings Buildings
From the whole team at Arcadia Kings Buildings, we want to thank you for your kind review, we really appreciate it.
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Review from M C (Father of Child) published on 7 March 2024 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
A truly great nursery - the staff are attentive and confident, treat each child with respect and ensure their development needs are met, all whilst providing a fun environment for the children. We find all of the staff pragmatic and helpful - allowing us more predictably in our child care schedule which
is incredibly important. In summary, great staff make a great nursery setting.
Reply from Laura Brownlee, Head of Nursery Operations at Arcadia @ Kings Buildings
Many thanks for taking time to leave such a lovely review. We are glad you have had such a positive experience with us and are thankful to have such a great team at Arcadia Kings Buildings.
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Review from H S (Father of Child) published on 5 March 2024 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
My son really enjoys his time at nursery. He has made some great friends and has a great bond with the majority of the staff. The staff are always very friendly, polite and really care about my son. The activities for him are stimulating and varied. The building is modern, clean, and the outdoor area
great for his needs.
Reply from Laura Brownlee, Head of Nursery Operations at Arcadia @ Kings Buildings
Thank you very much for taking time to leave such a lovely review, we really appreciate the feedback.
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Review from F C (Father of Child) published on 29 February 2024 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
Daughter took a while to settle and staff where patient and kind while she adjusted. Good food choices with many options. She looks forward to going now and we will be sending our son when he's old enough.
Reply from Laura Brownlee, Head of Nursery Operations at Arcadia @ Kings Buildings
Thank you for taking the time to leave our Kings Buildings Nursery such a kind review.
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Review from Jen L (Mother of Child) published on 29 February 2024 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
We have four children, all of whom have attended or are still attending Arcadia @ Kings Buildings. The staff are extremely friendly and invested in the children’s development. We have been given advice on how to further support our children at home and receive regular feedback (online and in person)
re. our child’s day at nursery.
The building itself is amazing with great space indoors and outdoors.
Reply from Laura Brownlee, Head of Nursery Operations at Arcadia @ Kings Buildings
On behalf of everyone at Kings Buildings, we would like to thank you for taking the time to leave such a lovely review!
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Review from Martine M (Mother of Child) published on 29 February 2024 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
Child-centred environment where practitioners are both supportive and nurturing of my child’s needs. Staff have worked so hard to make transitions between nursery rooms as smooth as possible for my son as he has grown. My son loves the play spaces and wonderful garden area. He thrives with the opportunities
provided to him to develop independence and learning practical skills (tidying up, keeping his drawings in his own personal storage tray, baking, helping out in daily tasks/routines). We are also looking forward to our son attending nature school next year with the pre-schoolers. Such a wonderful opportunity.
The feedback I receive from nursery practitioners is always so thoughtful and it’s clear that my child is well cared for. Our family love Arcadia @ Kings Buildings.
Reply from Laura Brownlee, Head of Nursery Operations at Arcadia @ Kings Buildings
From the whole team at Kings Buildings, we can't thank you enough for such a positive review!
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Current Review Score: 9.9 (9.907)

Overview of Review Score

The Review Score of 9.9 (9.907) out of 10 for Arcadia @ Kings Buildings 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 25 Reviews in the last 24 months.
  2. The score for the number of positive Reviews is 5.0 out of 5 from 25 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 4.907 for Arcadia @ Kings Buildings is calculated as follows: ( (274 Excellents x 5) + (24 Goods x 4) + (2 Satisfactorys x 3) ) ÷ 300 Ratings = 4.907
  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 Arcadia @ Kings Buildings is based on 25 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 113 number of registered child places is 22.6, which has been reached with 25 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 (0)

Meet the Team (1)

Vivi

Vivi Koumati

Job Title: Nursery Manager Joined: 2023

Our Kings Building Nursery is a large 113-place setting and is managed by Vivi Koumati.


Vivi has vast experience in leadership roles and has over 12 years of experience in Early Childhood Education. Vivi holds a PDA in Childhood Practice as well as a speech and language diploma.


Vivi ensures she supports her whole team to deliver the best outcomes for the children in their care, with the child at the centre of all they do.

Frequently Asked Questions about Arcadia @ Kings Buildings

What is the Age Range of Children that Arcadia @ Kings Buildings accepts?

Arcadia @ Kings Buildings accepts Children aged from 0 years 3 months to 5 years 0 months.

What Days & Hours is Arcadia @ Kings Buildings Open?

Arcadia @ Kings Buildings 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 Arcadia @ Kings Buildings have capacity for?

Arcadia @ Kings Buildings has capacity for a total of 113 Children.

How far is Arcadia @ Kings Buildings to the centre of Edinburgh?

1.8 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 Arcadia @ Kings Buildings to verify any information. View our terms and conditions. Arcadia @ Kings Buildings has an Enhanced Service - more info.