Acorn Day Nursery (Stony Stratford)

St Giles Mews, Vicarage Road, Stony Stratford, Milton Keynes MK11 1BN
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9.9 103 Reviews
  • Acorn Day Nursery (Stony Stratford), Milton Keynes
Situated on the site of Elizabeth House, in Vicarage Road, Stony Stratford. This nursery provides high quality, affordable childcare and early years education for the local community, in a building which has been completely refurbished and extended, with two spacious play areas indoors, with direct access to three outdoor play areas.

Acorn places a strong emphasis on outdoor play and learning, and the children will have the opportunity to be outdoors at some point every day, whatever the weather. Included in their fees are regular Forest School sessions; these exciting educational experiences are suitable for pre-schoolers and are delivered by fully trained forest school leaders and offer an innovative approach to outdoor play.

All the nursery meals are freshly prepared and delivered each day by Acorn Catering, which operates from the hub kitchen at their Shenley Church End nursery. They use local ethically sourced produce to create delicious meals and all menus have been designed to be nutritionally balanced ensuring they offer a variety of foods.

A home visit from the manager and your child’s key person is offered to all new families as they believe children benefit from meeting their key person in a familiar environment, before attending the nursery for settling-in sessions. Children are encouraged to form close bonds using their key person system to ensure learning and development are encouraged on an individual basis.
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Funding & Fees

Full time place starting from £1,630560
Full day from £8550
Morning session from £47.50
Afternoon session from £43

Fees are inclusive of all meals, snacks, drinks (including approved formula milk), nappies and activities.
We do not charge registration fees, but only a £50 deposit which is refunded against the first month’s fees. We don’t charge for settling in sessions, but we do expect payment for all nursery fees to be paid up front at the beginning of each month, which is standard practice for all childcare providers. We do not charge for bank holidays, our four training days each year, or for the three days closure between Christmas and New Year. We do, however, charge for days which children don’t attend through illness or holidays, apart from exceptional circumstances.
Please view the prospectus on our website for a full fees guide.

Contact Acorn Day Nursery (Stony Stratford) to get a personalised quote.

Contact Acorn Day Nursery (Stony Stratford) to get a personalised quote.

Type of Service

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

Group/Owner

Person in Charge

  • Nikki Torrie (Nursery Manager)

Number of Childcare Staff

  • 18

Registered Charity Number

  • 1145108

Total Places for Children

  • 40

Age Range

  • from 0 years 4 months
  • to 4 years 11 months

Opening Times

  • Monday 07:30-18:15
    Tuesday 07:30-18:15
    Wednesday 07:30-18:15
    Thursday 07:30-18:15
    Friday 07:30-18:15

When Closed

  • Bank Holidays, Staff Training Days & between Christmas & New Year

Parking

  • There is a small car park for children to be dropped off/picked up.

Acorn Day Nursery (Stony Stratford) Reviews (103)

9.9

Acorn Day Nursery (Stony Stratford) has a Review Score of 9.9 (9.937) out of 10, based on 33 reviews in the last 2 years.
Over all time Acorn Day Nursery (Stony Stratford) has 103 reviews.

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Review from N G (Mother of Child) published on 18 March 2026 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
My little one started at Acorn Stony Stratford in September last year and he is have a lovely time. The nursery was exceptional in settling him in, with several sessions at different times of day to familiarise him with the surroundings. He loves the focus on outside play, including playing in the garden
with the chickens. Most importantly, the care he has received has been exceptional. He is always happy to go to nursery and the team pay close attention to him and have clearly taken the time to get to know him well.
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Review from Lene C (Grandmother of Child) published on 18 March 2026 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
This is by far one of the nicest and welcoming nursery I have picked up or dropped off a grandchild at. The staff are caring and so engaged in the children and their well being.
It is professional in its running and safety of everything and everyone. They do wonderful activities and have themed days.
The outside area is relatively small but it's full of fun and space to let of steam It's truly a gem in Stony Stratford
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Review from C C (Mother of Child) published on 18 March 2026 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
My toddler has been at this nursery for over a year and thrives in the environment! Great communication and care from staff, a variety of activities for the children to get involved with or simply make use of all the toys and spaces on their own/ with their peers. The team has fully supported with my
toddlers toilet training, nap dropping and exposure to a variety of nutritious foods while in their care. 10/10 would recommend.
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Review from S T (Father of Child) published on 18 March 2026 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
We are so impressed with Acorn Stony Stratford! We recently moved our daughter to here from another local nursery.
Acorn Stony Stratford has a focus on development and we've been really happy to see the teaching of independence skills such as culterly use, putting on coats etc.
The day-to-day activities
are varied and include regularly taking the children out. Our daughter has enjoyed trips to the library as well as walks around Stony Stratford.
The consistent approach to key workers is reassuring and has allowed our daughter to settle quickly.
The food menu is also varied and caters for our daughter's dietary needs.
Overall, we think it's great!
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Review from J C (Father of Child) published on 18 March 2026 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
Amazing staff, that put 100% into everyday. My child loves attending and comes home everyday having done some fun and educational activities. They keep the days engaging and fun for the kids!
Can't speak highly enough about them!
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Review from Karen D (Grandmother of Child) published on 18 March 2026 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
The staff at Acorn are truly vested in the interests of each child. My granddaughter started nursery there this year and is absolutely thriving. She is exposed to so much stimulation as far as play and other activities are concerned, and is enjoying trying different foods. We get regular updates and
child safety and security are stringently adhered too. That said the staff are all so approachable and easy to chat with. I also have experience of a grandson who graduated from this nursery and he absolutely thrived here.
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Review from Shelley C (Mother of Child) published on 17 March 2026 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
My son has just moved up to Oaks, so I wanted to review his time in squirrels. He has had such an enriching experience this past year, and has continuously amazed us with the things he's learned (and retained!) from nursery. Louise built an incredible relationship both with our son and us as his parents.
She completely understands our little man, his quirks and how to best manage his behaviours in a nurturing (and humorous) way. And all the staff go over and above on a daily basis to provide clear and detailed feedback throughout the day as well as upon collection. Both my children have absolutely loved their time with Acorns. Our only regret is that it's not suitable for big kids like my husband and I.
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Review from Stacey T (Mother of Child) published on 17 March 2026 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
Fantastic location, setting and atmosphere for my children. I always feel safe and comfortable leaving my children. Since attending, my children have developed in leaps and bounds thanks to the support and care they receive from the team. The staff are very professional and always open to feedback,
which I really appreciate as a parent. The practitioners are amazing and genuinely treat my children as their own. I'm very greatful for the care and dedication they show every day.
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Review from Fran P (Grandmother of Child) published on 12 March 2026 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
Toby is my 2nd grandchild to go to the nursery. The staff fill the children's days with such fun & educational activities from weighing ingredients for pancakes, making a fire outside to cook them & trips to parks, library, on the bus & of course, the allotment.
I remember Toby eating peas with his
rice dinner from last years allotment crop.
So a wide range of challenging experiences & treats eg hot chocolate sat on logs outside in nursery garden !!
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Review from M T (Mother of Child) published on 5 March 2026 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
I couldn't recommend Acorns Nursery enough. From the moment you walk in, you can feel the warmth and genuine dedication of the staff. The team go above and beyond to ensure every child feels safe, supported, and valued as an individual.
The activities are laid out each morning and are engaging, educational,
and fun, helping the children grow in confidence. I love the ethos of Acorns.
Communication with parents is excellent, giving real peace of mind. I couldn't be happier with the nurturing, positive start they've given our children.
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Review from B F (Mother of Child) published on 4 March 2026 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
Stony is a great we wouldn't send our child anywhere else. Our child is always always looked after with such great care, she always has a smile on her face when picked up followed by a detailed handover of her day by the team!
She can be a bit funny going in but the staff make handovers in the morning
so easy a reduce any mum guilt I may have.


We love that they have so much access to the outside and have 2 designated play spaces to use. There is always such a range of activities throughout the day to keep her busy.

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Review from J P (Father of Child) published on 3 March 2026 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
My son loves his time at Acorn Nursery. We very rarely have have any trouble at drop off - he obviously feels very happy and safe there. The staff are friendly and cheerful, as all seem to have a genuine affection for the children. The ethos of the nursery, with lots of outdoor time, creative play and
fun activities really aligns with our values. The children are well supported in their development, and we receive regular writeups in addition to the information we get at evening handover.
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Review from Julie D (Grandmother of Child) published on 3 March 2026 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
Two grandsons have attended this nursery. Both have blossomed in their attitude and confidence thanks to the staff and the variety of activities both indoor and out. They love going each day and look forward to seeing their peers.
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Review from Raj B (Father of Child) published on 27 February 2026 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
My two children have been attending Acorn at Stony since they were both 10 months old. My son is now 4 years old and still thoroughly enjoys going to nursery. He especially loves Forest School, the woodland garden, and all the messy activities thoughtfully set out by the staff.


My daughter, who is

nearly 2, walks into nursery happily every single day without any upset. Both of my children have built such wonderful relationships with all the staff. We truly appreciate everything they do and couldn't be happier with the care, support, and nurturing environment they provide for our children.
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Review from S D (Mother of Child) published on 26 February 2026 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
Our child has come on leaps and bounds since starting at Acorn Stony Stratford. They have learned so many new skills and love going every day. They love to be outdoors so the forest garden and forest school are their absolute favourite. It is the best choice we could have made for them!
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Review from Anjeli D (Mother of Child) published on 18 February 2026 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
We have had a brilliant experience at stony Stratford nursery Both our children have learned so much. Staff have always been extremely professional our children have a lovely bond with their teachers and feel safe. Great to see their development progress. They have also tried new foods at nursery which
they wouldn't touch at home and loved it.
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Review from Jenna H (Mother of Child) published on 10 February 2026 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
Both kids have now attended Acorn and they absolutely love it there - my just turned 4 year old can tie a knot by himself! Love the Acorn ethos, the staff and everything about the group. Would HIGHLY recommend.
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Review from K S (Mother of Child) published on 10 February 2026 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
We're so happy with this nursery. The team are caring, attentive, and really focused on our child's individual needs, with lovely updates on his development. The outdoor space and freshly cooked food were big positives for us too. After 18 months, from baby room to big room, he's thrived in such a fun,
nurturing environment. We feel very lucky to have found it.
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Review from Grace A (Mother of Child) published on 14 April 2025 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
We all love Acorn @ Stony Stratford! My eldest was in and now my 2 year old has had a place since she was 9 months old! Both my kids love the nursery and all the staff! As a parent we get great communication from the staff and lots of lovely updates and pictures! I couldn't recommend it enough!
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Review from Z M (Mother of Child) published on 10 April 2025 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
My daughter has attended the nursery for two years now and has loved it from the start. The activities are vast and her days are always different. The staff are so welcoming and lovely. Friendships have blossomed, my daughter's confidence has grown and she's thriving. I couldn't recommend Acorn more.
The communication both via the App and at pickup, can't be faulted.
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Current Review Score: 9.9 (9.937)

Overview of Review Score

The Review Score of 9.9 (9.937) out of 10 for Acorn Day Nursery (Stony Stratford) 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 33 Reviews in the last 24 months.
  2. The score for the number of positive Reviews is 5.0 out of 5 from 33 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 4.937 for Acorn Day Nursery (Stony Stratford) is calculated as follows: ( (370 Excellents x 5) + (25 Goods x 4) ) ÷ 395 Ratings = 4.937
  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 Acorn Day Nursery (Stony Stratford) is based on 33 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 40 number of registered child places is 8, which has been reached with 33 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 (12)

Meet the Team (3)

Nikki

Nikki Torrie

Job Title: Nursery Manager Joined: 2018

Nikki has worked in the early years sector for over 30 years, undertaking a variety of roles including nanny, where she was awarded The Lady Magazine's ‘nanny of the year’ 2000, preschool leader, Tumble Tots organiser, deputy manager, and manager.


She holds a degree in Early Years and is deeply passionate about supporting and developing children’s learning and growth. Nikki has also completed her Designated Safeguarding Lead and Safer Recruitment training, demonstrating her strong commitment to children’s safety and well-being. With a great love for the outdoors, she has furthered her expertise by achieving a Level 3 qualification in Forest Schools

Kate

Kate Burgess

Job Title: Administrator Joined: 2025

Katie is a happy, friendly and approachable Nursery Admin who loves that every day brings something different. After eight years working in HR admin, she’s great at staying organised and supporting the people around her. Katie’s the person who always brings a smile and helps where she’s needed.


Outside of work, she’s usually doing nails, at the gym, or out walking her two dogs.

Hayley

Hayley Mahoney

Job Title: Deputy Manager Joined: 2026

Deputy Manager

Frequently Asked Questions about Acorn Day Nursery (Stony Stratford)

What is the Age Range of Children that Acorn Day Nursery (Stony Stratford) accepts?

Acorn Day Nursery (Stony Stratford) accepts Children aged from 0 years 4 months to 4 years 11 months.

What Days & Hours is Acorn Day Nursery (Stony Stratford) Open?

Acorn Day Nursery (Stony Stratford) is open: Monday 07:30-18:15, Tuesday 07:30-18:15, Wednesday 07:30-18:15, Thursday 07:30-18:15, Friday 07:30-18:15.

How many Children does Acorn Day Nursery (Stony Stratford) have capacity for?

Acorn Day Nursery (Stony Stratford) has capacity for a total of 40 Children.

How far is Acorn Day Nursery (Stony Stratford) to the centre of Milton Keynes?

4.7 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 Acorn Day Nursery (Stony Stratford) to verify any information. View our terms and conditions. Acorn Day Nursery (Stony Stratford) has an Enhanced Service - more info.