Children 1st Syston Nursery School

1324 Melton Road, Syston, Leicester LE7 2EQ
Review Us
9.8 94 Reviews
  • Children 1st Syston Nursery School, Leicester
Children 1st Syston Nursery School provides a welcoming, home-from-home environment where children aged 6 weeks to 5 years are supported and inspired to learn. The nursery focuses on the development of the whole child, encouraging curiosity, confidence, and independence through a curriculum crafted by experts. The dedicated, experienced team create a warm and inclusive community, ensuring each child feels valued and secure.

The nursery offers thoughtfully designed spaces, from cosy indoor areas to stimulating outdoor gardens, enabling children to explore, discover, and engage with their environment. Daily activities include creative play, early literacy and numeracy experiences, STEM exploration, music, and movement, alongside opportunities for outdoor learning and forest school. Fresh, nutritious meals are prepared onsite, promoting healthy eating and hands-on experiences with food.

Children 1st Syston supports families through flexible sessions and access to government-funded childcare for eligible children. The nursery prioritises strong partnerships with parents, providing regular updates and opportunities to be involved in their child’s learning journey. With a focus on community values, wellbeing, and lifelong learning, Children 1st Syston offers a safe, inspiring, and nurturing setting where children can thrive, develop key skills, and make lasting friendships.
Show Children 1st Syston Nursery School on the Map

Type of Service

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

Group/Owner

Person in Charge

  • Kirsty Sadler (Manager)

Number of Childcare Staff

  • 33

Total Places for Children

  • 131

Age Range

  • from 0 years 3 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 & 1 week at Christmas

Children 1st Syston Nursery School Reviews (94)

9.8

Children 1st Syston Nursery School has a Review Score of 9.8 (9.775) out of 10, based on 25 reviews in the last 2 years.
Over all time Children 1st Syston Nursery School has 94 reviews.

Overall Experience
  • 78
  • 12
  • 3
  • 1
  • 0
Date Published
  • 94
  • 1
  • 2
  • 25
  • 69
Reviewer Connection to Children 1st Syston Nursery School
  • 79
  • 15
Total of 94, showing 41-60
Review from Katie C (Mother of Child) published on 10 August 2021 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
I am so pleased with how well our daughter has settled and thrived at nursery. She started midway through the pandemic which made it harder to leave her at the door. However, after a couple of weeks, she soon felt comfortable going in. She now loves telling me about her friends and looks forward to
seeing the manager come to the door to collect her. The staff are lovely and we have seen how much she has improved in so many areas. The nursery itself is lovely and set out so well to keep the children entertained and safe. Can not recommend them enough. Thank you to all for looking after our little girl.
  • Facilities / Outside Space
  • Learning
  • Resources / Equipment / ICT
  • Care
  • Activities
  • Staff
  • Food / Nutrition
  • Management
  • Cleanliness
  • Safeguarding
  • Value for Money
Review from Catherine A (Mother of Child) published on 2 August 2021 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
I have been very pleased with the nursery. They are very well organised and give great care to my little boy. He has settled in very well in each new room and is always happy to be dropped off. Thank you.
  • Facilities / Outside Space
  • Learning
  • Resources / Equipment / ICT
  • Care
  • Activities
  • Staff
  • Food / Nutrition
  • Management
  • Cleanliness
  • Safeguarding
  • Value for Money
Review from Nicole B (Mother of Child) published on 2 August 2021 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
My little boy continues to thrive at Children 1st @ Syston. He enjoys going to nursery and we are always kept well informed. They are incredibly supportive and trustworthy. They genuinely care about his well being and happiness and provide a range of fun activities to support his development. We loved
attending a stay and play recently. It was amazing to see him so settled in his environment.
  • Facilities / Outside Space
  • Learning
  • Resources / Equipment / ICT
  • Care
  • Activities
  • Staff
  • Food / Nutrition
  • Management
  • Cleanliness
  • Safeguarding
  • Value for Money
Review from David G (Father of Child) published on 27 July 2021 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
My son has just graduated from the Gables and previously my daughter spent three very happy years there. The Manager and the team have been outstanding throughout providing my children with an excellent grounding for their school years. I was originally concerned when the nursery was taken over by a
national chain but there was no issue as Children 1st invested significant amounts into the facilities so that when you first see the garden and theme rooms it's a wow moment. I cannot recommend this nursery highly enough
  • Facilities / Outside Space
  • Learning
  • Resources / Equipment / ICT
  • Care
  • Activities
  • Staff
  • Food / Nutrition
  • Management
  • Cleanliness
  • Safeguarding
  • Value for Money
Review from Ravinder L (Mother of Child) published on 27 July 2021 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
I am so glad I chose this nursery for my son before he started. My son loved all the different activities and all the different rooms the nursery has to offer and the garden is beautiful with lots of things to do for the little ones. The staff have always been amazing and helpful since my son started
in 2019 up until the end of term this year, I think Children 1st @ Syston have a great team, the staff and manager at reception have been brilliant, always took time to speak to me and have been great towards my child, thank you so much for giving my little boy a head start to primary school at the end of August.
  • Facilities / Outside Space
  • Learning
  • Resources / Equipment / ICT
  • Care
  • Activities
  • Staff
  • Food / Nutrition
  • Management
  • Cleanliness
  • Safeguarding
  • Value for Money
Review from Satinder S (Father of Child) published on 25 December 2020 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
My daughter started her nursery in September, the staff are really lovely and care about the children. They always welcome with happy faces. She comes home happy and most of all very eager to go back for the next day which is such a great thing for us. Also she has formed good relationships with both
the staff and other children, and often mentioned them outside of the nursery. She learned so many things. So we would not hesitate to recommend this nursery. Fantastic.
  • Facilities / Outside Space
  • Learning
  • Resources / Equipment / ICT
  • Care
  • Activities
  • Staff
  • Food / Nutrition
  • Management
  • Cleanliness
  • Safeguarding
  • Value for Money
Review from Lucy A (Mother of Child) published on 22 December 2020 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
My daughter has been attending the nursery for over 12 months now. She has come on so much, fantastic staff always smiling. Fab place. Would not hesitate to recommend the manager and her team to other Mums.
  • Facilities / Outside Space
  • Learning
  • Resources / Equipment / ICT
  • Care
  • Activities
  • Staff
  • Food / Nutrition
  • Management
  • Cleanliness
  • Safeguarding
  • Value for Money
Review from Chris M (Father of Child) published on 4 December 2020 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
We have sent both our Children to this nursery. Our youngest is currently in 2 days a week and he always comes home happy and tired. The range of activities really suits his interests and the key workers understand him very well.
  • Facilities / Outside Space
  • Learning
  • Resources / Equipment / ICT
  • Care
  • Activities
  • Staff
  • Food / Nutrition
  • Management
  • Cleanliness
  • Safeguarding
  • Value for Money
Review from Sarah P (Mother of Child) published on 4 December 2020 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
My son has attended the nursery in Syston for around a year, he absolutely loves his time there. The activities are fab and the thought that goes into planning the themes is immense.
Obviously, the staff have faced one of the most difficult years and have risen to the challenge. They are all wonderful,
helpful, kind, happy and nothing is too much trouble. The manager certainly leads by example, she assists with the drop-off and pick up at the front door and I have witnessed numerous times how she takes the time to talk to each person picking up a child about what they have done, what they have eaten etc. It’s so reassuring as we can’t go to the room and hear from the key workers anymore. Nothing is too much trouble for the manager, she is always there if you have a question or need something.
It’s a wonderful environment for children, I highly recommend the nursery.
  • Facilities / Outside Space
  • Learning
  • Resources / Equipment / ICT
  • Care
  • Activities
  • Staff
  • Food / Nutrition
  • Management
  • Cleanliness
  • Safeguarding
  • Value for Money
Review from Stacey E (Mother of Child) published on 3 December 2020 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
My daughter’s been attending this nursery for the past 9 months and we couldn’t be happier with her care. She’s safe, happy and the staff know her really well - she’s flourishing! The staff encourage, challenge and support her development and have brought her on leaps and bounds which we’re particularly
pleased with after being in lockdown too and the impact this would have had on her. Thank you!
  • Facilities / Outside Space
  • Learning
  • Resources / Equipment / ICT
  • Care
  • Activities
  • Staff
  • Food / Nutrition
  • Management
  • Cleanliness
  • Safeguarding
  • Value for Money
Review from Jack L (Father of Child) published on 3 December 2020 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
My son has attended this nursery for around 12 months now. I can say without a doubt that this is the best nursery my son has ever attended by far. Due to my occupation, my family have moved around quite a lot and so in his short 4 years, my son has attended quite a few nurseries so I have a good basis
for comparison. The staff are a particular plus, they are extremely friendly, but most importantly they are effective in their roles and have done an excellent job of caring, nurturing and educating my son. The facilities are excellent and my son enjoys every moment he has there. Thank you.
  • Facilities / Outside Space
  • Learning
  • Resources / Equipment / ICT
  • Care
  • Activities
  • Staff
  • Food / Nutrition
  • Management
  • Cleanliness
  • Safeguarding
  • Value for Money
Review from Kim B (Mother of Child) published on 3 December 2020 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
My son is going through the process to be diagnosed with autism. The nursery have been amazing with him and he is coming on leaps and bounds. They have put everything in place for him that needs to be. They communicate every day how your child has got on and they have little diaries that they write
in every day about what your child as eaten, what they have done etc. My older son used to go when he was little. I highly recommend the nursery to anyone. The staff are all friendly and so caring and supportive.
  • Facilities / Outside Space
  • Learning
  • Resources / Equipment / ICT
  • Care
  • Activities
  • Staff
  • Food / Nutrition
  • Management
  • Cleanliness
  • Safeguarding
  • Value for Money
Review from Nicola G (Mother of Child) published on 2 December 2020 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
I have been using the nursery for almost 18 months now and am really happy. The staff are lovely and really care about the children. The outside space is superb and this, along with the refurbished rooms, made me choose this nursery over the one I used for my older child. Would definitely recommend
to others.
  • Facilities / Outside Space
  • Learning
  • Resources / Equipment / ICT
  • Care
  • Activities
  • Staff
  • Food / Nutrition
  • Management
  • Cleanliness
  • Safeguarding
  • Value for Money
Review from Madison B (Mother of Child) published on 2 December 2020 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
My daughter started her nursery journey in September. So far she’s learnt so much and her speech has came on fantastically, as well singing nursery rhymes etc. All the staff at Children 1st @ Syston are absolutely amazing, understanding and care so much, not just for the children but for the parents,
for example when it’s the child’s first day going to nursery and you might be emotional, they make sure you're okay. They always let you know what your child’s doing and eating in good detail. They keep you constantly updated with pictures/videos of what your child is doing, activities which go on as well as targets for your child. There is so much these amazing people do to ensure happy children and happy parents at the nursery!
  • Facilities / Outside Space
  • Learning
  • Resources / Equipment / ICT
  • Care
  • Activities
  • Staff
  • Food / Nutrition
  • Management
  • Cleanliness
  • Safeguarding
  • Value for Money
Review from Keely S (Mother of Child) published on 2 December 2020 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
My little one has been in the nursery now for almost a year and has gone through 2 of the rooms so far. The fears I had originally of her going into nursery were unfounded because Children 1st @ Syston are fantastic. The staff absolutely make it, from the management down to the maintenance team and
through Covid, I couldn't feel more confident in sending her there. She gets excited to go to nursery and excited to come home and show us what she has done that day and as a mum I couldn't ask for more. The staff make you feel like they have all the time in the world for you and your little one (even at six o'clock on a Friday evening!) despite the fact that I'm sure that is not the case! We are so pleased with our choice of nursery and thanks to all the staff.
  • Facilities / Outside Space
  • Learning
  • Resources / Equipment / ICT
  • Care
  • Activities
  • Staff
  • Food / Nutrition
  • Management
  • Cleanliness
  • Safeguarding
  • Value for Money
Review from Lynsey H (Mother of Child) published on 19 October 2020 Submitted via Postal Card • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
Our son has loved every moment of being part of Children 1st. Staff are very friendly and attentive to all the children they care for. He comes home happy, having eaten everything they give him, and most of all, very eager to return the next day.
  • Facilities / Outside Space
  • Learning
  • Resources / Equipment / ICT
  • Care
  • Activities
  • Staff
  • Food / Nutrition
  • Management
  • Cleanliness
  • Safeguarding
  • Value for Money
Review from S M (Father of Child) published on 15 September 2020 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
A fantastic nursery. From day one, my young daughter and I were reassured and made to feel very welcome by the manager. My daughter literally leaps into the arms of her keyworker and the team (in Bobtails), who are all very caring, friendly and professional. I would not hesitate to recommend this nursery.
  • Facilities / Outside Space
  • Learning
  • Resources / Equipment / ICT
  • Care
  • Activities
  • Staff
  • Food / Nutrition
  • Management
  • Cleanliness
  • Safeguarding
  • Value for Money
Review from Xanthe (Mother of Child) published on 10 September 2020 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
My little one has been in the Bobtails room for the last seven months. From day dot they welcomed us with open arms and catered to both baby and mummy's needs to the huge transition into childcare. Every single member of staff is wonderful from the nursery nurses to the kitchen staff, to the receptionists.
You can truly feel at ease leaving your child in the best care around. My little one loves going to nursery and loves showing off everything she learns. Can’t say I blame her the facilities are breath-taking who doesn’t want to stay and play! From the garden areas to the little person climbing frames, there is plenty to keep them ever entertained and learning. As a parent, you can expect regular updates on progress and updates on what your little one has been up to. Lots of schedule information on all their open play and scheduled activities. Finally, special shout out to one staff member, in particular, my daughter and us adore you! (and all in the bobtail room!) Thanks.
  • Facilities / Outside Space
  • Learning
  • Resources / Equipment / ICT
  • Care
  • Activities
  • Staff
  • Food / Nutrition
  • Management
  • Cleanliness
  • Safeguarding
  • Value for Money
Review from K S (Mother of Child) published on 10 September 2020 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
The bobtails room have been fantastic in ensuring a smooth, comfortable and caring transition for our daughters. Even through the Coronavirus pandemic, the team have successfully settled her into their room. Everyone is warm, welcoming and incredibly understanding. We are so lucky to have you taking
such wonderful care of our little girl. Thank you so much Syston Children 1st.
  • Facilities / Outside Space
  • Learning
  • Resources / Equipment / ICT
  • Care
  • Activities
  • Staff
  • Food / Nutrition
  • Management
  • Cleanliness
  • Safeguarding
  • Value for Money
Review from Amy W (Mother of Child) published on 6 February 2020 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
My two-year-old started four months ago and I am so happy with the choice I made in bringing her here. I am able to go to work and not have to worry about her, as I know that she is happy, having fun whilst learning and being well looked after. She has formed good relationships with both the staff and
other children and often mentions them outside of the nursery. I am always updated personally by a staff member when I pick her up as to what my daughter has done throughout the day and how she has been in herself. She was very upset and anxious when she first started but all of the staff tried very hard to distract her and make her feel better. The new payment and invoice system is great and it's lovely to receive updates through the learning app so I can see how she is developing. It is also clear to see at home that she is learning and developing through nursery by being around other children and attentive staff. The chef is also great, with an amazing menu and my daughter often eats all of every meal she has.
  • Facilities / Outside Space
  • Learning
  • Resources / Equipment / ICT
  • Care
  • Activities
  • Staff
  • Food / Nutrition
  • Management
  • Cleanliness
  • Safeguarding
  • Value for Money
Current Review Score: 9.8 (9.775)

Overview of Review Score

The Review Score of 9.8 (9.775) out of 10 for Children 1st Syston Nursery School 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 4.9 out of 5 from 24 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 4.859 for Children 1st Syston Nursery School is calculated as follows: ( (262 Excellents x 5) + (30 Goods x 4) + (6 Satisfactorys x 3) ) ÷ 298 Ratings = 4.859
  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 4.916 Points relating to the number of positive Reviews for Children 1st Syston Nursery School is based on 24 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 131 number of registered child places is 26.2. 24 Positive Reviews ÷ 26.2 = 0.916
  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 Loading

Loading

Loading

Awards / Recognitions (4)

Meet the Team (1)

Kirsty

Kirsty Sadler

Job Title: Nursery Manager Joined: 2019

Hello, my name is Kirsty Sadler and I joined Children 1st in 2019. I began my career as a Nursery Nurse, passionate about supporting young children’s development and giving them the best possible start. Over time, I wanted a new challenge — a space where I could showcase my skills and continue to grow.


That determination led to my promotion to Senior Nursery Nurse, where I took on additional responsibilities and began mentoring others. I then progressed to Deputy Manager, gaining valuable experience in leadership and operational support. In 2024, I took the biggest step in my journey and became Nursery Manager.


Every stage of my career has taught me something new, and I’m incredibly grateful for the opportunities and support I’ve had along the way. I’m excited for what’s to come and remain committed to creating environments where children, families, and teams can thrive.


I hold a Level 3 qualification in Early Years and am proud of the experiences that have shaped my practice.


One of the things I love most about my role is working closely with individual families and their children. Every child is unique, and every family brings something special — no two days are ever the same. It’s incredibly rewarding to be part of those early moments, whether it’s a child’s first steps into nursery or helping a parent feel confident and reassured.


I’m especially passionate about providing high-quality childcare for all, creating inclusive environments, and supporting families. For me, this work isn’t just about routines and milestones — it’s about relationships, trust, and watching children grow into confident, curious individuals.

Information on this page is displayed without responsibility for its accuracy on the part of daynurseries.co.uk. Please contact Children 1st Syston Nursery School to verify any information. View our terms and conditions. Children 1st Syston Nursery School has an Enhanced Service - more info.