Children 1st Buckinghams Nursery School

Buxton Road, Leek ST13 6NE
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Top 20 award
10 148 Reviews
  • Children 1st Buckinghams Nursery School, Leek
Children 1st Buckinghams Nursery School is a well-loved setting, conveniently situated on Buxton Road in Leek.

The nursery features spacious, well-equipped learning areas tailored for babies, toddlers and early years children, creating ideal spaces for small-group learning. A large outdoor area adds to the experience, giving children plenty of room to explore and play.

The team is guided and supported by a dedicated early years teacher, ensuring the delivery of the Early Years Foundation Stage Framework. Staff are committed to helping children grow into confident, motivated and enthusiastic learners.

With its warm, home-from-home atmosphere and use of natural resources, the nursery inspires curiosity, creativity and a sense of wonder in every child.
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Funding & Fees

Contact Children 1st Buckinghams Nursery School to get a personalised quote.

Contact Children 1st Buckinghams Nursery School to get a personalised quote.

Type of Service

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

Group/Owner

Person in Charge

  • Nicky Hardy (Manager)

Number of Childcare Staff

  • 18

Total Places for Children

  • 140

Age Range

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

Opening Times

  • Monday 08:00-18:00
    Tuesday 08:00-18:00
    Wednesday 08:00-18:00
    Thursday 08:00-18:00
    Friday 08:00-18:00

When Closed

  • Bank Holidays & Christmas

Children 1st Buckinghams Nursery School Reviews (148)

10

Children 1st Buckinghams Nursery School has a Review Score of 10 (9.979) out of 10, based on 28 reviews in the last 2 years.
Over all time Children 1st Buckinghams Nursery School has 148 reviews.

Overall Experience
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Date Published
  • 148
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Reviewer Connection to Children 1st Buckinghams Nursery School
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Total of 148, showing 1-20
Review from B W (Mother of Child) published on 27 March 2026 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
Our child loves nursery, shouts it with excitement when we pull into the car park. I think this is testimony to the wonderful staff who make the space so friendly and welcoming. The confidence and skills that have grown over the months our child has been at nursery has been incredible. This has been
a wonderful decision all round.
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Review from A T (Mother of Child) published on 26 March 2026 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
The nursery team in the 'bobtails' room have been welcoming and caring. They have clearly made the experience of starting nursery a less daunting one for our son, who seems to have settled extremely well and found confidence and comfort in the staff working there. I think he really does enjoy his time
spent at Buckinghams. I would recommend this nursery to anyone in the area looking for a childcare provider.
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Review from Emily F (Mother of Child) published on 26 March 2026 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
All three of our Children have attended Buckinghams. We really would not use anywhere else. The staff are absolutely superb and build caring relationships with the children. The care they provide is outstanding. At drop off and pick up we are always greeted with a smile and our little girl genuinely
loves attending nursery. All staff go above and beyond and are happy which means the children too are settled and happy. We really couldn't ask for any more. The nursery app updates us with exactly what our little one is up to through out the day. Which is a really personal touch.
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Review from Beth T (Mother of Child) published on 26 March 2026 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
My Son started in Jan and naturally I was extremely nervous - all staff made us feel welcome from the beginning and totally put us at ease about the whole transition, offering additional settling in sessions ect... to ensure he was ready for his first full day.
His key worker has gone above and beyond
to make the whole experience super stress-free, and all other staff have been amazing. He always comes home and talks about his day with such happiness and speaks highly of the staff!
He has developed so much since starting and I cant wait for him to continue learning!
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Review from Ashleigh M (Mother of Child) published on 25 March 2026 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
We absolutely love Buckinghams! The staff are so attentive, caring and informative. Like all parents we were apprehensive about our daughter attending any nursery setting but Buckinghams couldn't have been better! Our daughter has come on leaps and bounds with her language, communication and overall
confidence and that is down to the wonderful interactions she has with her key worker and other staff, the exciting activities on offer and the safe environment she has to explore!
As a parent it's truly wonderful to know she is enjoying her days, making friendships and genuinely excited to arrive each morning! The staff really take the time to know each child and their little personalities and it really put me at ease knowing she's in a setting where she is cared for like she is one of their own & they genuinely enjoy being around her. Which is mirrored by how she is just as excited to see the staff in the morning as she is to see her friends.
Thank you Buckinghams for everything you do
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Review from Ruth S (Mother of Child) published on 25 March 2026 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
I cannot speak highly enough of this nursery and the exceptional level of care they provide. From the very beginning, it has been clear that the team genuinely prioritises each child's wellbeing, development, and individuality. My child is never treated as just another number; instead, she is valued
as a unique individual, and this approach extends to every child in their care.
The environment they create feels much more like a close-knit family than a childcare setting. The staff consistently demonstrate warmth, compassion, and a deep understanding of each child's needs. They take the time to nurture development at every stage, offering tailored support and encouragement to help children grow in confidence and ability.
What truly sets this nursery apart is not only their dedication to the children, but also the support they provide to parents. They maintain open, reassuring communication and are always willing to offer guidance, making you feel fully supported in your child's journey.
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Review from S F (Father of Child) published on 25 March 2026 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
Staff are always friendly and happy to see our daughter. You can clearly see that they have positive relationships with all of the children. The app allows updates, which the staff are good at adding lots of photos and updates
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Review from Charlotte R (Mother of Child) published on 23 March 2026 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
Buckinghams is an incredible nursery who have gone above and beyond for my son. The staff are so lovely and professional, he adores them. They support him with phonics, writing and socialising. Above all they have fun with the children. The meals are great which a variety which allows to children to
experience different types of foods and flavours. I am so pleased I made the decision to take my son here. It'll be a very emotional day when he leaves in July.
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Review from Matt A (Father of Child) published on 23 March 2026 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
Buckinghams is an amazing nursery! The range of activities for the children is excellent and have helped my son progress in many areas. All staff are friendly, welcoming, professional and go above and beyond! The communication at pick-up and on the app is excellent - we get regular photos and updates
of what my son has been doing and we love seeing him enjoying his time at nursery. The food choices on offer are brill and they cater for allergies safely - which is so reassuring. They have excellent facilities and my son has many opportunities for outdoor play and learning throughout the day! By far the best nursery in the area!
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Review from A J (Father of Child) published on 23 March 2026 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
I cannot recommend this nursery enough. My little girl is thriving and I truly believe it's from the amazing care the nursery give to my daughter. My daughter started at 9 months old and is now almost 2. The activities they provide are brilliant and the outdoor area and facilities are amazing. They
have a wide variety of home cooked food too which makes this nursery exceptional. Thank you to all the staff for all the care you show to my daughter. We couldn't wish for a better nursery for my little girl.
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Review from Shannon F (Mother of Child) published on 19 March 2026 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
As a first-time parent returning to work, I was naturally very nervous about leaving my child in someone else's care. However, from the moment my child started at this nursery, the staff have been incredibly reassuring and supportive, which has made the transition so much easier for both of us.


My

child truly receives the care and attention they need every single day. The staff clearly take the time to understand each child individually, and it's so reassuring to see how happy, comfortable, and settled my child is when they're there. The team genuinely go above and beyond for the wellbeing and development of the children, creating a nurturing and stimulating environment where they can learn, play, and grow with confidence.


My little boys key worker has become one of his new favourite people which shows how much care and kindness is shown everyday.


We couldn't be happier as parents.

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Review from K D (Mother of Child) published on 16 March 2026 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
The staff at Children 1st go above and beyond in the care of my child. I was apprehensive to leave my child at first but the love and care they have shown has been incredible. The videos, photos and updates throughout the day have been wonderful to see. The staff really make a point of getting to know
each child and their family. It is a wonderful nursery.
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Review from Elizabeth J (Mother of Child) published on 11 March 2026 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
We are so incredibly grateful to have found Children's First - Buckinghams Nursery. After two very difficult attempts at settling our little boy into nursery and with a childminder due to separation struggles, we were understandably anxious. From the very beginning, Buckinghams took him under their
wing, giving him the time, patience and reassurance he needed, and he settled far quicker than we ever expected.
Miss Amanda and Miss Katie are truly amazing. They truly care about each child as an individual and go above and beyond to provide comfort and support.
Our little boy is now thriving. He loves going, happily eats and sleeps there, and especially enjoys going outside every day. We feel completely at ease knowing he's in such caring hands and wouldn't hesitate to recommend them.
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Review from Pam C (Grandmother of Child) published on 9 December 2025 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
I joined in the stay and play at the nursery. I was very impressed having worked as a teaching assistant myself the level of education the children recieve.Iwas particularly impressed how they allow children to do things independently for example serving themselves their own snacks.
The staff are
always very friendly and always inform you of the child's day e.g if they have been happy and if they have eaten well as well as when they have been upset or not eaten that day.
The staff member on the reception desk is always friendly and chatty and acknowledges the children as they come and go.
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Review from Ale B (Mother of Child) published on 9 December 2025 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
They're unbelievably loving and patient. My daughter loves going.
Plenty of feedback every day at pick up times, great food, NO TV!!
They have a great outdoor space where they spend a lot of time playing and doing nature activities.
Absolutely recommend it!
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Review from Olivia H (Mother of Child) published on 9 December 2025 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
My little boy settled in absolutely brilliantly, his first time being in a setting with other children and strangers and they made him feel so welcomed and loved, they always update and are very passionate and caring about each and every one of there children here at Buckinghams, Buckinghams was my
first choice for my son and It's lived up to my expectations, the girls are absolute angels and I feel so at ease dropping him off knowing he's catered for and cared for and loved throughout the day. Even meal times, I was worried due to my boy not taking to the foods but I love how different it all is and it gives them a taste for stuff they wouldn't necessarily have at home, brilliant place with brilliant staff
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Review from Laura v (Mother of Child) published on 9 December 2025 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
I absolutely adore Buckinghams nursery and all the staff. My son is well cared for and I feel he is very loved there. He has made alot of special connections with the staff. The staff always make me feel informed and I can leave there knowing my son is happy and having a great time
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Review from A R (Mother of Child) published on 26 November 2025 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
My son has attended the nursery for just over a month now and he absolutely loves it. All the staff are friendly, you are kept up to date with what is going on and how your child is getting on throughout the day. They are very accommodating. He loves it and that makes me a happy mummy that he enjoys
it so much.
Reply from Finlay Seoudy, Regional Marketing Executive at Children 1st Buckinghams Nursery SchoolThank you for your fantastic review. We're so pleased to hear how much your son loves attending and that you feel well informed about his day. It's wonderful to know he feels comfortable, happy, and supported by the team. Your kind words mean a great deal to the team.
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Review from F C (Father of Child) published on 14 April 2025 Submitted via Postal Card • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
My son has been attending three times a week since 8 months of age. He has now moved to his 3rd room and has loved each of them. The staff are so friendly and accommodating, he lights up when he sees them. Excellent management, well organised, great range of activities and facilities. Thanks to all
at Buckinghams.
Reply from Jessica Griffin, Marketing Executive at Children 1st Buckinghams Nursery SchoolThank you so much for your kind words! It's wonderful to hear how well your son has settled into each room and how happy he is to see the team. We're so pleased you've had such a positive experience at Buckinghams and truly appreciate your lovely feedback!
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Review from Chloe M (Mother of Child) published on 21 March 2025 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
My child has been with Children's First at Buckinghams since he was 8 months old. He absolutely loves to go to nursery and practically runs laughing through the door. All of the staff are kind, welcoming and helpful and they can never do enough for you. My little boy has thrived through their calm,
home-from-home environment and well-resourced provision. They regularly plan exciting and engaging activities to expand his learning.
The outdoor areas of Bucks are particularly special, which was something we looked for in a nursery. My little boy loves it outside as much as inside and is now impossible to bring indoors! I really believe the Team at Bucks have really made handing my little boy over to a stranger a painless and supportive experience.
Thank you all!
Reply from Jessica Griffin, Marketing Executive at Children 1st Buckinghams Nursery SchoolThank you so much for your lovely feedback! We're so happy to hear your little boy is thriving and enjoying his time with us, especially in our outdoor areas. It's wonderful to know that the team has made the transition smooth and supportive for you. Your kind words mean the world to us.
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Current Review Score: 10.0 (9.979)

Overview of Review Score

The Review Score of 10 (9.979) out of 10 for Children 1st Buckinghams Nursery 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 28 Reviews in the last 24 months.
  2. The score for the number of positive Reviews is 5.0 out of 5 from 28 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 4.979 for Children 1st Buckinghams Nursery School is calculated as follows: ( (327 Excellents x 5) + (7 Goods x 4) ) ÷ 334 Ratings = 4.979
  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 Children 1st Buckinghams Nursery School is based on 28 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 140 number of registered child places is 28, which has been reached with 28 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 (1)

Nicky

Nicky Hardy

Job Title: Nursery Manager Joined: 1992

Hello my name is Nicola Hardy I am the Manager @ Children 1st @ Buckinghamsl.


As well as working full time I am also a Mum of two Children Louis who is 13 and Molly who is 8 both of my children attended nursery from the age of Nine months old I feel this has been a great start for my children socially and intellectually.


I started my career in childcare 26 years ago and have experienced various roles working with all age groups within our nurseries.


A deputy position came up within the company this would potentially be a great move I was a successful applicant and I started my new position in October 2016.


I was given the opportunity to develop myself as a Manager. I have found this move a great experience
Since working with Children 1st I have been able to continue my training completing a NVQ Level Three in customer services.


During my time with children 1st I have become more confident and have developed skills in all aspects of my job role


I have a passion and am fully committed to providing high quality day care and education to all our children. And for caring for children and their families, ensuring that they are happy and settled whilst attending our setting.

Frequently Asked Questions about Children 1st Buckinghams Nursery School

What is the Age Range of Children that Children 1st Buckinghams Nursery School accepts?

Children 1st Buckinghams Nursery School accepts Children aged from 0 years 2 months to 5 years 0 months.

What Days & Hours is Children 1st Buckinghams Nursery School Open?

Children 1st Buckinghams Nursery School is open: Monday 08:00-18:00, Tuesday 08:00-18:00, Wednesday 08:00-18:00, Thursday 08:00-18:00, Friday 08:00-18:00.

How many Children does Children 1st Buckinghams Nursery School have capacity for?

Children 1st Buckinghams Nursery School has capacity for a total of 140 Children.

How far is Children 1st Buckinghams Nursery School to the centre of Leek?

0.7 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 Children 1st Buckinghams Nursery School to verify any information. View our terms and conditions. Children 1st Buckinghams Nursery School has an Enhanced Service - more info.