Banana Moon Day Nursery Colchester

1 & 2 Oyster Court, St Helens Lane, Colchester CO1 1TY
Review Us
9.6 85 Reviews
  • Banana Moon Day Nursery Colchester, Colchester
Banana Moon day nursery offers care for children aged from three months to five years in a purpose-built setting which ensures the needs of children can be fully met.
Staff always take the needs and views of its parents very seriously to ensure the best learning and playing environment is created for children to grow and develop in.
A safe and secure playground complements the indoor facilities of Banana Moon day nursery, and an in-house kitchen is used to create nutritious and healthy daily meals.
Security is of paramount concern at Banana Moon. With this in mind, they operate a ‘fingerprint’ biometric access system to protect children and nursery staff. This system allows nursery personnel to register parents' fingerprints in seconds.
Banana Moon operates CCTV throughout the nursery. This added security is there for the protection and peace of mind of children, staff and parents. The presence of the external cameras also acts as a powerful deterrent to any unwelcome visitors.
They have a dedicated sleep room with soft lighting and natural wood cots. This calm and quiet room provides a restful environment for babies, allowing them to enjoy a comfortable nap without being disturbed by any external noise. Each child has their own bed linen, which is regularly laundered in-house.
The nursery is equipped with a number of interactive screens, which provide an interactive learning experience for children of all ages. Adding this technology to the nursery environment encourages the little ones to explore the world of ICT in bite-sized chunks.
To help share your child’s development and to make communicating with parents informative and easy, the Parent App is available to download from the App Store or Google Play. This helps staff to share ‘golden’ moments like children painting or exploring their environment and learning through play.

Type of Service

  • Day Nursery
  • Open all year
  • Full Day Care

Group/Owner

Person in Charge

  • Sophie O'Hanlon (Manager)

Number of Childcare Staff

  • 19

Total Places for Children

  • 100

Age Range

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

Funding & Fees

  • Free funded places available (limited availability). Please get in touch for fees

Opening Times

  • Monday 07:00-19:00
    Tuesday 07:00-19:00
    Wednesday 07:00-19:00
    Thursday 07:00-19:00
    Friday 07:00-19:00

When Closed

  • Bank Holidays

Parking

  • Ample Parking available on site

Banana Moon Day Nursery Colchester Reviews (85)

9.6

Banana Moon Day Nursery Colchester has a Review Score of 9.6 (9.592) out of 10, based on 13 reviews in the last 2 years.
Over all time Banana Moon Day Nursery Colchester has 85 reviews.

Overall Experience
  • 72
  • 12
  • 1
  • 0
  • 0
Date Published
  • 85
  • 2
  • 12
  • 13
  • 72
Reviewer Connection to Banana Moon Day Nursery Colchester
  • 69
  • 14
  • 2
Total of 85, showing 1-20
Review from Mollie B (Mother of Child) published on 5 August 2025 Submitted via Postal Card • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
We've had a wonderful experience with Banana Moon nursery. The learning environment has been fantastic and our son has grown so much both academically and socially. All staff are friendly and attentive and always willing to support the children and their families. A special thank you to the room leader/deputy
manager, who has played such a big role in his development. Her warmth, patience and genuine care have made a huge difference. The nursery offers a great mix of learning and fun, and we're grateful for the nurturing environment they have provided for our son. The positive impact Banana Moon has had on his early years has been incredible - it has given him a strong, happy foundation as he prepares for school. Thank you!
  • Facilities / Outside Space
  • Learning
  • Resources / Equipment / ICT
  • Care
  • Activities
  • Staff
  • Food / Nutrition
  • Management
  • Cleanliness
  • Safeguarding
  • Value for Money
Review from D S (Mother of Child) published on 20 June 2025 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
We've had a lovely experience with the nursery.
The staff have always been very professional, caring, and supportive. It's been reassuring to know our child is in such a warm and nurturing environment. Thank you for everything!
Reply from Natasha Ritchie - Loan, Senior Manager at Banana Moon Day Nursery Colchester
We are so glad to hear such fantastic feedback about our team and the nursery. I will make sure I pass this on to the staff at the setting.
  • Facilities / Outside Space
  • Learning
  • Resources / Equipment / ICT
  • Care
  • Activities
  • Staff
  • Food / Nutrition
  • Management
  • Cleanliness
  • Safeguarding
  • Value for Money
Review from Valencia T (Mother of Child) published on 31 March 2025 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
My daughter loves it there she is 16 months she is developing and learning new skills every week. Although she is only been there for 3 months only, she settled in straight away, She is absolutely looking forward to be there enjoying all the activities indoors and in the garden. she loves the food
and just waves bye to me every time. Any concerns/ questions I had have been dealt with by the management straight away, all staff are lovely and receptive. You can definitely find more cost efective alternatives however this nursery is worth every penny.
Reply from Kiera Savory, Deputy Manager at Banana Moon Day Nursery Colchester
Thank you for your review, we will pass on these comments on to the girls :)
  • Facilities / Outside Space
  • Learning
  • Resources / Equipment / ICT
  • Care
  • Activities
  • Staff
  • Food / Nutrition
  • Management
  • Cleanliness
  • Safeguarding
  • Value for Money
Review from M B (Father of Child) published on 18 March 2025 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
I couldn't recommend this Nursery enough. My daughter started in August last year. Since she started, we have noticed a lot of positive changes.
She is happier and more confident, and her hand-eye coordination has improved greatly, especially during eating time.
We appreciate everything you do for
her and just to say thank you!
Reply from Kiera Savory, Deputy Manager at Banana Moon Day Nursery Colchester
Thankyou for your kind words, I will pass this onto the girls :)
  • Facilities / Outside Space
  • Learning
  • Resources / Equipment / ICT
  • Care
  • Activities
  • Staff
  • Food / Nutrition
  • Management
  • Cleanliness
  • Safeguarding
  • Value for Money
Review from Theeparaj L (Father of Child) published on 28 February 2025 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
The staff are so friendly and kind. My son has started to speak English and his behaviour so nice. Banana Moon Nursery's food was amazing. My family feel so happy thank you Banana Moon teachers, I am originally from Sri Lanka I have been living in the UK last 15 years I love Colchester. Colchester people
are so nice thank you so much everyone for your support, especially Banana Moon teachers.
Reply from Kiera, Third in Charge at Banana Moon Day Nursery Colchester
Thank you so much for your lovely review, I will pass your praises on to the girls.
  • Facilities / Outside Space
  • Learning
  • Resources / Equipment / ICT
  • Care
  • Activities
  • Staff
  • Food / Nutrition
  • Management
  • Cleanliness
  • Safeguarding
  • Value for Money
Review from A S (Mother of Child) published on 28 February 2025 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
My daughter has been going here for nearly a year and she loves it. The staff are all lovely and I've felt confident from day one leaving my daughter with them. If I ever have a question or want to know anything, I message on the app and get a reply almost instantly. The staff are brilliant with my
daughter and knowing what she needs. I love when she comes home with little paintings or arts and crafts pieces showing the new things she has learnt.
Reply from Kiera Savory, Third in charge at Banana Moon Day Nursery Colchester
Thank you for your kind words. The girls always go above and beyond for every child so we are pleased it is noticed.
  • Facilities / Outside Space
  • Learning
  • Resources / Equipment / ICT
  • Care
  • Activities
  • Staff
  • Food / Nutrition
  • Management
  • Cleanliness
  • Safeguarding
  • Value for Money
Review from E B (Mother of Child) published on 18 February 2025 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
Our daughter loves coming to this nursery! Everyone who works there always goes above and beyond in their care for her and all the children there. She loves the activities which are always so interactive and fun whilst learning at the same time.
Reply from Natasha Ritchie - Loan, Senior Manager at Banana Moon Day Nursery Colchester
Thank you for such positive feedback. We are always happy to hear such great comments about the activities that the staff plan for the children. Thank you!
  • Facilities / Outside Space
  • Learning
  • Resources / Equipment / ICT
  • Care
  • Activities
  • Staff
  • Food / Nutrition
  • Management
  • Cleanliness
  • Safeguarding
  • Value for Money
Review from L M (Mother of Child) published on 13 February 2025 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
The entire team at Banana Moon Day Nursery Colchester have been taking care of our little boy since he was 9 months old. He is now 3, and throughout his time there (from Babies to Teenies, Minis, and now Full Moons) he has been looked after in such a reassuring way. The staff clearly adore the children,
but they also ensure that each child receives extra attention when needed, cultivate learning opportunities around their favourite activities, and support important milestones like potty training. I feel very happy and reassured knowing that this wonderful team is supporting our son while we are at work. As a mother, it gives me huge peace of mind to know that not only is he safe, learning, and socialising, but he is genuinely cared for. Thank you all!
Reply from Natasha Ritchie - Loan, Senior Manager at Banana Moon Day Nursery Colchester
Thank you for your kind words! We will be sure to pass this feedback onto the girls.
  • Facilities / Outside Space
  • Learning
  • Resources / Equipment / ICT
  • Care
  • Activities
  • Staff
  • Food / Nutrition
  • Management
  • Cleanliness
  • Safeguarding
  • Value for Money
Review from S F (Mother of Child) published on 12 February 2025 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
I am incredibly grateful to the entire nursery team for their dedication and care in supporting my child's development. Over time, I have noticed remarkable improvements in his behaviour - he is now more confident, expressive, and able to communicate in longer sentences. The kindness and patience of
the staff have played a crucial role in nurturing his growth, creating a warm and encouraging environment where he feels safe and happy. Thank you for your hard work and commitment to the children's well-being.
Reply from Natasha Ritchie - Loan, Senior Manager at Banana Moon Day Nursery Colchester
Thank you for your review. It is great to have such positive feedback.
  • Facilities / Outside Space
  • Learning
  • Resources / Equipment / ICT
  • Care
  • Activities
  • Staff
  • Food / Nutrition
  • Management
  • Cleanliness
  • Safeguarding
  • Value for Money
Review from N J (Mother of Child) published on 12 February 2025 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
My son has just started at Banana Moon and he loves it. He never wants to leave. If I have any questions or issues, they are answered and resolved quickly. The communication with staff at the nursery is 10 out of 10. I am very comfortable with sending my son there and very happy with the staff, they
always have a smile for every child and every parent. I am impressed that they remember everyone's name child and parents. The app is amazing to see how my child is doing and I am excited to continue his journey, I love the photos. The staff understand it is a big step for parents as well as the children to be apart and they go above and beyond to make me feel confident and comfortable. The food sounds so nice and my fussy eater is enjoying it.
Reply from Natasha Ritchie - Loan, Senior Manager at Banana Moon Day Nursery Colchester
Thank you for your review. We always appreciate great feedback. We are so pleased that your child has settled so well at the nursery and we always strive to give great feedback to all our parents.…read more
  • Facilities / Outside Space
  • Learning
  • Resources / Equipment / ICT
  • Care
  • Activities
  • Staff
  • Food / Nutrition
  • Management
  • Cleanliness
  • Safeguarding
  • Value for Money
Review from Louise W (Mother of Child) published on 12 February 2025 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
I have two children who currently attend the nursery and are in separate rooms. My experience with the nursery has been nothing short of exceptional. The care the workers show my children brings me comfort to leave them and attend work knowing they are well looked after. I am kept up to date with the
app on their day to day activities, meals and well being with photos also. I like how they celebrate a lot of different occasions, such as Christmas, Chinese New Year, mothers and Father's Day even doing stay and play with parents. I love the range of activities my children are involved in from indoor play, outdoor play, baking, crafts, singing, reading and role play. My eldest has flourished since attending and his confidence has grown significantly to him nursery is another safe place just like home is.
Reply from Natasha Ritchie - Loan, Senior Manager at Banana Moon Day Nursery Colchester
Thankyou for your review. We are so pleased with how well your two children are getting on at Banana Moon. The app is a great way to keep the parents informed and we are pleased you have had lots of…read more
  • Facilities / Outside Space
  • Learning
  • Resources / Equipment / ICT
  • Care
  • Activities
  • Staff
  • Food / Nutrition
  • Management
  • Cleanliness
  • Safeguarding
  • Value for Money
Review from C B (Mother of Child) published on 12 February 2025 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
All the staff nice and very friendly with the kids. My daughter, she's very happy to go to nursery and she's learning new skills every day. The food is very good too, my daughter enjoys her food there.
Reply from Natasha Ritchie - Loan, Senior Manager at Banana Moon Day Nursery Colchester
Thank you for your review. We work hard and have a great chef who can provide a delicious balanced nutritious menu. It is always lovely to have positive feedback.
  • Facilities / Outside Space
  • Learning
  • Resources / Equipment / ICT
  • Care
  • Activities
  • Staff
  • Food / Nutrition
  • Management
  • Cleanliness
  • Safeguarding
  • Value for Money
Review from L T (Mother of Child) published on 15 December 2023 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
Our daughter has been going to Banana Moon now for 3 months and she absolutely loves her time here. I was anxious about going back to work full time but now I feel at ease because the childcare is faultless. The staff are so welcoming, and friendly and always go the extra mile. I always get daily updates
on their app about our daughter so I always know what she has been up to and how much she has been eating, drinking and sleeping. Thank you Banana Moon staff for everything you do!
Reply from Abigail Sumnall, Manager at Banana Moon Day Nursery Colchester
Thank you for your kind review. As a team we feel that communication is the key to success when establishing and maintaining relationships with our children and their families - it's nice to know that…read more
  • Facilities / Outside Space
  • Learning
  • Resources / Equipment / ICT
  • Care
  • Activities
  • Staff
  • Food / Nutrition
  • Management
  • Cleanliness
  • Safeguarding
  • Value for Money
Review from Laura C (Mother of Child) published on 16 November 2023 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
My daughter started attending Banana Moon Nursery in October and she was very shy and not used to spending time with other people. Banana Moon Nursery staff were absolutely brilliant in helping my little one to get used to being surrounded by new people. The staff were and still are very receptive to
my little one's likes and dislikes, food preferences, sleeping habits etc, and made her feel comfortable and confident to keep attending the nursery.
The office staff are very understanding and open to any questions or concerns and ready to find a solution tailored to your needs. I found this very useful because as a parent I was very anxious to leave my little one at the nursery, but the staff were always understanding and ready to find the best solution to move forward.
My daughter also developed a lot of new skills since she started nursery but most importantly she is used to a routine now more than ever.
Overall, I think I made the best decision with Banana Moon.
Reply from Abigail Sumnall, Manager at Banana Moon Day Nursery Colchester
Thank you for your kind review. The team are very passionate about the children's needs and helping them to develop and progress the best they can. We are always ensuring that you have all the…read more
  • Facilities / Outside Space
  • Learning
  • Resources / Equipment / ICT
  • Care
  • Activities
  • Staff
  • Food / Nutrition
  • Management
  • Cleanliness
  • Safeguarding
  • Value for Money
Review from Ross H (Father of Child) published on 1 November 2023 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
My daughter has been attending Banana Moon for two years and has genuinely turned out to be the little girl she is because of this nursery. The bonds she has made with staff and children are so special to her and me as her parent. The staff really care about the children, and she is always excited to
go to nursery. Thank you for looking after my precious girl.
Reply from Abigail Sumnall, Manager at Banana Moon Day Nursery Colchester
Thank you for your kind review. As a nursery, we endeavour to build strong relationships with the children and their families to ensure it is a positive experience for everybody.
  • Facilities / Outside Space
  • Learning
  • Resources / Equipment / ICT
  • Care
  • Activities
  • Staff
  • Food / Nutrition
  • Management
  • Cleanliness
  • Safeguarding
  • Value for Money
Review from Calogero T (Father of Child) published on 25 October 2023 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
I find Banana Moon to be extremely welcoming and safe. Child safety is clearly a priority. Various safety measures are taken, and you have no idea how safe this makes me feel.
The teachers are lovely, and my son loves them. In the morning, when we get ready to go to the nursery, he always smiles and
often repeats the names of the teachers during the day.
Also, I find the app interesting, with which we receive all communications promptly and regular updates on our son's day, his progress, and everything we need to know. I recommend it without hesitation to all parents looking for a nursery that makes them feel peaceful.
Reply from Abigail Sumnall, Manager at Banana Moon Day Nursery Colchester
Thank you for your positive review. Safeguarding is a priority for us, and having systems such as the fingerprint system that only allows the appropriate people into the building is just one way we…read more
  • Facilities / Outside Space
  • Learning
  • Resources / Equipment / ICT
  • Care
  • Activities
  • Staff
  • Food / Nutrition
  • Management
  • Cleanliness
  • Safeguarding
  • Value for Money
Review from J G (Father of Child) published on 25 October 2023 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
Our child has a great time at the nursery. Staff are passionate, friendly and helpful and always provide lots of detail as to how they have got on across the day and never seem to rush us away. The online diary is useful to see how much they have slept and eaten, etc, and the menu seems very nutritious
and varied. We would highly recommend the nursery.
Reply from Abigail Sumnall, Manager at Banana Moon Day Nursery Colchester
Thank you for your very complimentary review. The team are very passionate about the nursery and ensures you have information throughout the day so that they can put your mind at ease knowing what…read more
  • Facilities / Outside Space
  • Learning
  • Resources / Equipment / ICT
  • Care
  • Activities
  • Staff
  • Food / Nutrition
  • Management
  • Cleanliness
  • Safeguarding
  • Value for Money
Review from Marisa M (Mother of Child) published on 25 October 2023 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
My daughter started in September with Banana Moon Day Nursery Colchester.
The staff are very friendly and helpful. She loves to go and play with the other children. So far, my experience with Banana Moon is very good.
Thank you all for your work.
Reply from Abigail Sumnall, Manager at Banana Moon Day Nursery Colchester
Thank you for your positive review. I'm glad you have found the team to be very helpful - we appreciate it can be quite difficult leaving your child at the beginning. Your child going off to play…read more
  • Facilities / Outside Space
  • Learning
  • Resources / Equipment / ICT
  • Care
  • Activities
  • Staff
  • Food / Nutrition
  • Management
  • Cleanliness
  • Safeguarding
  • Value for Money
Review from Joel S (Father of Child) published on 18 October 2023 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
My little girl started with Banana Moon Colchester in September 2023. She settled straight away down to the care and attention of the staff in her room and the management team. Nothing is too much trouble, and she is always smiling. I get to see photos of what she gets up to on the parent's app. When
my little girl has fallen, I receive a message when it happens, so I know there's an accident form when I collect, and it isn't a shock. I am very happy with the care my little girl gets when she is at nursery, and I would highly recommend Banana Moon Colchester.
Reply from Abigail Sumnall, Manager at Banana Moon Day Nursery Colchester
Thank you for your kind comments; it's nice to know that you enjoy our parent app so that you can see what your child has been doing throughout the day. As a nursery, we feel it is important to keep…read more
  • Facilities / Outside Space
  • Learning
  • Resources / Equipment / ICT
  • Care
  • Activities
  • Staff
  • Food / Nutrition
  • Management
  • Cleanliness
  • Safeguarding
  • Value for Money
Review from J G (Father of Child) published on 18 October 2023 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
My four year recently left the nursery to start primary school but can honestly say he enjoyed his time here so much. When he first started at 2 years old, he was behind in his speech, shy and very nervous. When he left he was a different child. The support we received from the nursery and his key workers
was amazing.
My two year currently goes and he has thrived from day one. The updates on the apps are brilliant. My youngest loves the nursery and looks forward to going every day.
If the nursery ever decides to provide term time care for my eldest during half terms, I would not hesitate to send him.
The staff are committed and work hard. Big mention to my son's key person, who my youngest loves.
Reply from Abigail Sumnall, Manager at Banana Moon Day Nursery Colchester
Thank you very much for your review. It's nice to hear that we have helped support your 4-year-old to develop fully in order to continue to flourish within school.
I will pass your praises along to…
read more
  • Facilities / Outside Space
  • Learning
  • Resources / Equipment / ICT
  • Care
  • Activities
  • Staff
  • Food / Nutrition
  • Management
  • Cleanliness
  • Safeguarding
  • Value for Money
Current Review Score: 9.6 (9.592)

Overview of Review Score

The Review Score of 9.6 (9.592) out of 10 for Banana Moon Day Nursery Colchester 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 13 Reviews in the last 24 months.
  2. The score for the number of positive Reviews is 4.7 out of 5 from 13 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 4.942 for Banana Moon Day Nursery Colchester is calculated as follows: ( (146 Excellents x 5) + (9 Goods x 4) ) ÷ 155 Ratings = 4.942
  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 4.65 Points relating to the number of positive Reviews for Banana Moon Day Nursery Colchester is based on 13 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 100 number of registered child places is 20. 13 Positive Reviews ÷ 20 = 0.65
  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.

Loading

Loading

Awards / Recognitions (7)

Loading...

Meet the Team (16)

Natasha

Natasha Ritchie-Loan

Job Title: Senior Nursery Manager Joined: 2012

I have worked at Banana Moon since 2012, when the Billericay Nursery first opened. I hold a Diploma in Nursery Nursing, which I was awarded in 1999.


I am a proud mummy of two boys — they are my world! Both of my sons have attended Banana Moon, and my youngest still does.


Working with children is my true passion. I love nothing more than seeing them flourish, learn, develop, and grow over the years at Banana Moon. The children and families are at the heart of our nursery — we are not just a nursery, we are a part of your children’s extended family.


My role is to encourage children to follow their interests while supporting the staff to provide stimulating and engaging experiences that promote growth, curiosity, and joy every day.

Sophie

Sophie O'Hanlon

Job Title: Manager Joined: 2021

Hi, I am Sophie, and I have a level 3 qualification in childcare. I started with Banana Moon 3 years ago as an Early Years Educator and have progressed to the position of Manager. I'm enjoying getting involved with all of the children and their families and working with the team to make sure everyone enjoys their time in the nursery.


During my spare time, I love spending time with my family.

Kiera

Kiera Savory

Job Title: Room Leader/Deputy Manager Joined: 2023

I have worked in Early Years since I was 17 years old, during this time I have studied to become a Level 3 Early Years Educator.


For me helping children grow and reach their goals so they are ready to go off to school is one of the most rewarding feelings.


I am very excited to have joined Banana Moon as the Room Leader for Full Moons.

Billie

Billie Russell

Job Title: Third In Charge / SENCo Joined: 2023

I have worked in childcare for many years, starting my career as an unqualified practitioner and working my way up to become a Level 3 Early Years Educator.


I have been with Banana Moon for several months and currently serve as Third in Charge and SENCo. Supporting children with additional needs is something I am truly passionate about, and I love helping every child feel confident, happy, and included.


Outside of work, I enjoy spending time with my younger siblings and relaxing with friends. I also love bringing creativity and fun into my work, whether it’s through play, activities, or learning experiences that make each day exciting for the children.

Robert

Robert Taylor

Job Title: Chef Joined: 2023

I was raised in a family where cooking was a big part of daily life, and their passion inspired me to study catering at college.


I love seeing children try new foods and discover that healthy meals can be delicious. In this way, I feel I’m helping them get the best possible start in life.


Outside of work, I enjoy playing football and spending quality time with my family.

Lilla

Lilla Jangaon - Markaly

Job Title: Level 3 Nursery Practitioner Joined: 2024

Hello, I am Lilla. I am originally from Hungary but now live in Colchester with my little family.

Sophie

Sophie Oldroyd

Job Title: Apprentice Joined: 2024

Hi, I am Sophie. I am a Level 2 nursery practitioner and currently doing my Level 3 apprenticeship. I am based in Full Moons.

Suzanne

Suzanne De Boer

Job Title: Level 2 Nursery Practitioner Joined: 2024

Hello, I am Suzanne. I originally lived in The Netherlands and then moved to Australia.
I now live in Colchester with my little family.

Nicola

Nicola Pearson

Job Title: Holiday Club Manager Joined: 2024

I have worked in childcare for over 7 years and am passionate about supporting children’s growth and development. I am a Moon Crew Manager, where I enjoy creating a nurturing and fun environment for the little ones.


Outside of work, I love travelling and spending quality time with my family. I am really enjoying making a positive impact here at Banana Moon and seeing the children thrive each day.

Megan

Megan Stevenson

Job Title: Level 2 Nursery Practitioner Joined: 2022

My name is Megan and I am a level two early years practitioner in the baby and teenie room. I have 3 years of experience within a nursery setting and I am first aid trained. In my spare time, I enjoy cooking and spending time with my family.

Tyheisha

Tyheisha Simpson

Job Title: Level 3 Nursery Practitioner Joined: 2024

Hi. I am Tyheisha. I enjoy spending time with my family and my daughter. I used to work and live in London but have recently moved to Colchester with my husband.

Andrea

Andrea Salamanova

Job Title: Level 2 Nursery Practitioner Joined: 2022

Hi, I’m Andrea. I’m originally from Slovakia, and I now live in Colchester with my husband and our two boys.


At Banana Moon, I am based in the Baby and Teenie Moons room, where I love supporting and caring for the youngest children as they grow and develop. I really enjoy creating a calm and nurturing environment, and it’s such a joy to see the babies and toddlers reach new milestones each day.


Outside of work, I love spending time with my family, cooking, and getting outdoors with my boys. Being a mum myself has given me a real understanding of how important it is for children to feel safe, happy, and cared for — something I always aim to bring into my work.

Melissa

Melissa Knight

Job Title: Nursery Practitioner Joined: 2022

My name is Melissa and I am a Nursery Practitioner in the Full moon room at Banana Moon, in Colchester.


I am a qualified teacher and have over three years of experience working in nursery settings.


I also have a performing arts degree and have been carrying out dance and drama activities within the setting. I also have level 3 in phonics.


In my spare time, I enjoy spending time with my three-year-old son.

Katherine

Katherine Cooper

Job Title: Level 3 Nursery Practitioner Joined: 2018

Hello. I am Katherine. I live in Colchester with my little boy and husband. I have worked at Banana Moon for almost 7 years now!

Vanessa

Vanessa Curto

Job Title: Nursery Practitioner Joined: 2021

I joined Banana Moon after moving to Colchester from Palmero in Italy. I have several years of experience working as a Nursery Practitioner. While living in Italy I studied childcare to a degree level.
I am currently working in Full Moons and Mini Moons

No image found

Esther Sweetman

Job Title: Playworker Joined: 2025

Hi, I am Esther.

Frequently Asked Questions about Banana Moon Day Nursery Colchester

What is the Age Range of Children that Banana Moon Day Nursery Colchester accepts?

Banana Moon Day Nursery Colchester accepts Children aged from 0 years 3 months to 5 years 0 months.

What Days & Hours is Banana Moon Day Nursery Colchester Open?

Banana Moon Day Nursery Colchester is open: Monday 07:00-19:00, Tuesday 07:00-19:00, Wednesday 07:00-19:00, Thursday 07:00-19:00, Friday 07:00-19:00.

How many Children does Banana Moon Day Nursery Colchester have capacity for?

Banana Moon Day Nursery Colchester has capacity for a total of 100 Children.

How far is Banana Moon Day Nursery Colchester to the centre of Colchester?

0.1 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 Banana Moon Day Nursery Colchester to verify any information. View our terms and conditions. Banana Moon Day Nursery Colchester has an Enhanced Service - more info.