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Monkey Puzzle Day Nursery Astwick

The Old Granary, Units 4 and 5 Church Farm, Astwick Nr Stotfold, Hitchin SG5 4BH
Monkey Puzzle Day Nurseries Ltd Logo
Monkey Puzzle Day Nursery Astwick logo
Monkey Puzzle Day Nursery Astwick, Hitchin
Monkey Puzzle Day Nursery Astwick, Hitchin
Monkey Puzzle Day Nursery Astwick, Hitchin

Monkey Puzzle Day Nursery Astwick opened in September 2019, was fully refurbished and extended in October 2025, and is within a spacious barn which is located in beautiful countryside in the hamlet of Astwick, right next door to the historic church of St Guthlac. It is an area of both historic and natural beauty where regular outings are arranged so children can freely explore nature to aid their learning and...  

Funding & Fees

Age: 3 months - 5 years:
Full day: £99.00

Half day: £60.00

All nappies / wipes / meals and forest school etc included in paid fees. Funding accepted and a voluntary contribution for funded hours for means and consumables. Please see our website for more information.

Contact Monkey Puzzle Day Nursery Astwick to get a personalised quote:

Type of Service

  • Day Nursery

Opening Schedule

Open all year

Full days available

Yes

Half day sessions offered

Yes

Group/Owner

Person in charge

  • Natasha Moniz / Abi White / Zoe Currell (Director/Manager)

Number of Childcare Staff

  • 42

Total Places for Children

  • 145

Age Range

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

Meals Provided

No

Consumables provided

No

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 & Christmas

Parking

  • There is free parking on site for nursery drop off & pick up.

Monkey Puzzle Day Nursery Astwick Reviews (97)

9.7

Monkey Puzzle Day Nursery Astwick has a Review Score of 9.7 (9.684) out of 10, based on 21 reviews in the last 2 years. Over all time Monkey Puzzle Day Nursery Astwick has 97 reviews.

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Showing 97 reviews matching selected criteria
Review from Zuzana C (Mother of Child) published on 7 May 2021 Submitted via Website
Overall Experience

Our daughter joined the nursery soon after it opened and she loves it. She settled in very quickly and made lots of new friends. The staff are amazing as they make learning fun, our daughter has learned so many different skills in the nursery. They have a lovely outside space and they get to go on lots of walks to explore fields, animals and a lake. I would definitely recommend the nursery.

Reply from Natasha Moniz, Nursery Owner at Monkey Puzzle Day Nursery Astwick

Thank you for such positive feedback - we really appreciate it and use this to strive to improve further.

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Review from Katie E (Mother of Child) published on 7 May 2021 Submitted via Website
Overall Experience
My son finds it hard with places and people he doesn't know but he has settled in so well here and has been with Monkey Puzzle for over a year now. It's a perfect setting on a farm so they are out walking most days and having picnics. Surrounded by pigs, sheep and horses.
He has come a long way and asks every day if he can go to "school".
They are very supportive and it's very child-led play.
I asked my son what he likes best and he said he enjoys seeing the diggers and tractors!
I have recommended this nursery to a number of people as I love it so much, you also get daily updates and pictures of what the kids have been doing.

Can't recommend enough you won't be disappointed.

Reply from Natasha Moniz, Nursery Owner at Monkey Puzzle Day Nursery Astwick

Thank you - we do have the most beautiful environment and make the most of it exploring with the little ones. It means a lot to have such a lovely review.

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Review from Mark C (Father of Child) published on 7 May 2021 Submitted via Website
Overall Experience

I can't speak highly enough about this nursery. Since our daughter has been going there we, i.e. Mum and Dad, have seen her come on and develop so quickly. The app is brilliant where you can see what your child has done in the day and regular pictures are posted every day so you can see your child enjoying their day. The staff keep you up to date on developments and how your child is progressing. 10/10. Never seen our daughter looking so happy to be there. Brilliant place brilliant staff.

Reply from Natasha Moniz, Nursery Owner at Monkey Puzzle Day Nursery Astwick

We love having all our little people and they really do brighten our day - thank you for giving us such a positive review.

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Review from Jonathan B (Father of Child) published on 7 May 2021 Submitted via Website
Overall Experience

We moved our son to Monkey Puzzle in July 2020 and he’s thrived since joining. The key is the combination of great facilities, staff that he loves, the outdoor space, and the fact that the nursery is on a farm (with tractors and animals on view every day). I cannot recommend it enough.

Reply from Natasha Moniz, Nursery Owner at Monkey Puzzle Day Nursery Astwick

Thank you so much for reviewing us. Really does mean a lot to hear such positive feedback to us all.

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Review from Maelle C (Mother of Child) published on 4 May 2021 Submitted via Website
Overall Experience

We are absolutely delighted with Monkey Puzzle Astwick. Often amazed at the staff creativity to keep the little ones busy and open their eyes to the world. The access to the farmland is a real bonus, allowing the children to have everyday interactions with the natural environment, and learn how to be creative around it. Space is luxury and seeing pictures of our daughter running in a field simply is priceless. I would recommend this setting to anyone looking for a nursery.

Reply from Natasha Moniz, Nursery Owner at Monkey Puzzle Day Nursery Astwick

Thank you for the feedback- the staff team do work so hard so it is lovely for them to hear it’s appreciated. Our ethos is to encourage the children to explore nature and I love that we do not use ICT too much as I believe our little ones have enough around them at home and as they get older. We prefer to climb a tree or run in the fields on a treasure hunt. So glad you embrace our ethos too.

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Review from Lisa W (Mother of Child) published on 3 February 2021 Submitted via Website
Overall Experience

I would strongly recommend this nursery to anyone looking for a nursery for their little one to be cared for. We have 2 children at the nursery. Our eldest is in the preschool and the youngest started in the baby room and recently moved into the daisy room. We are extremely happy with all-round what the children receive. They are truly loved and cared for in the best way possible, lots of opportunities are giving and learning activities linked to the EYFS but still having fun. The nursery is situated on farmland where the children can explore the piglets and sheep! The staff are knowledgeable and always there to help!

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Review from Laura D (Mother of Child) published on 28 January 2021 Submitted via Website
Overall Experience

I have loved seeing our little girl settle into a nursery routine so happily and quickly thanks to the friendliness of the staff at Monkey Puzzle. The settling in sessions worked great to help build up our daughter's confidence before staying for a full day and it's lovely to then receive photos throughout the day of what fun activities they are doing. It's a great feeling to be able to pick up your child at the end of a day with a great big smile on their face. Thank you to all the staff at Monkey Puzzle.

Reply from Natasha Moniz, Nursery Owner at Monkey Puzzle Day Nursery Astwick

Thank you for your lovely review. It means so much to myself and the staff team to get parent feedback and is important to know what we are doing well. With Covid meaning access is now restricted to parents not being able to come into nursery, we felt the activity updates would be a nice way to keep our parents involved in their child's day. I am glad the parents like them as much as we do!

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Review from Charlotte B (Mother of Child) published on 2 October 2020 Submitted via Website
Overall Experience

Our son started at Monkey Puzzle two months ago. After switching from another nursery, he settled in very quickly and absolutely loves it. The location is amazing. He loves his walks and seeing the farm animals. The caring and compassion from the staff are amazing. There are a comprehensive handover and app that you get constant updates on. Wish we switched our son earlier to this nursery.

Reply from Natasha Moniz, Nursery Owner at Monkey Puzzle Day Nursery Astwick

Thank you so much for taking the time to give us a wonderful review. We are always grateful to hear feedback from our parents. Natasha

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Review from Marlena Z (Mother of Child) published on 1 October 2020 Submitted via Website
Overall Experience

Great nursery! Beautiful setting and really caring staff. After having a wonderful nanny for the last 2 years, we were rather apprehensive to send our son to the nursery, but as he will start a preschool next year, we decided it’s time to boost his socialising skills and we are delighted with Monkey Puzzle Day Nursery Astwick. The management is very approachable and responsive and the nursery nurses are really kind and well organised with a series of engaging activities keeping our son involved and entertained. I would definitely recommend this place to any parent who is looking for good quality childcare for their little ones.

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Review from Stefan (Father of Child) published on 13 March 2020 Submitted via Website
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The team at Monkey Puzzle Astwick are truly wonderful. Our little one took some time to settle, but the staff were so warm and welcoming and now she loves it! She comes home happy and tired every day having had adventures and fun with her friends. The team have also fully accommodated our little one's allergies and they go above and beyond to make sure she is safe but included. Fantastic nursery and beautiful setting. Highly recommended!

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Review from Jo B (Mother of Child) published on 13 March 2020 Submitted via Website
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Our daughter loves her time at Monkey Puzzle. The staff are caring and really take the time to know each child. Our daughter can be ‘a character’ and I am always 100% confident in how the nursery looks after her while she is there. The activities they involve the children in are wide-ranging and always fun. The facilities are outstanding and I love how they encourage the children to be outside whenever they can. Our daughter's key worker works closely with us to ensure we all know how she is developing and is starting to really encourage toilet training and behaviour charts. I would totally recommend Monkey Puzzle to any parents looking for a caring, stimulating and well-equipped nursery.

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Review from P S (Mother of Child) published on 13 March 2020 Submitted via Website
Overall Experience

I cannot thank the manager and her lovely team enough for providing such a fun and friendly environment. My child is thoroughly enjoying nursery and is thriving. The genuine interest and care my child is given makes a real difference. 100% would recommend any day of the week. The manager is very transparent and proactive about anything that might impact on the children etc and it very appreciated.

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Review from Leanne I (Mother of Child) published on 12 March 2020 Submitted via Website
Overall Experience

This nursery is most nurturing loving perfect place to send your child, my son adores every day he attends here and loves all of the staff each and every one of them are amazing and adored by my son. I trust them completely! Great facilities, lots of activities on hand for kids, lots of outdoor play! Every day my son attends he claps and gets excited as we pull into nursery! Which tells me how much he enjoys being there! My son has allergies and staff are amazing at preparing him dairy, gluten and wheat-free food - it’s never too much for them and are very much enjoyed by also! Overall one of best nurseries I visited before choosing one for my son ! It has everything you would want in nursery setting !

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Review from Annabelle D (Mother of Child) published on 12 March 2020 Submitted via Website
Overall Experience

Our experience of Monkey Puzzle Astwick has been fantastic. Our little boy has started within the last month, and struggled to settle (he’s only 10-months-old and has barely been apart from me). Every member of staff, particularly his key worker and room leader, have been fantastic in both helping him settle at nursery and helping me feel confident that he’s in good hands. I’ve never felt like I was a burden for asking how he is or making requests about his naps etc. They’ve been incredible and I can’t thank them enough for making the experience calm and happy. The facilities are excellent, the staff are always presented well and so friendly. The setting of the nursery is second to none in the local area and they go above and beyond.

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Review from Tia D (Mother of Child) published on 24 January 2020 Submitted via Website
Overall Experience
I’m a first-time mum and was extremely nervous to put my son into a nursery. I had been to visit a few, and none of them stood out, I just didn’t get a good feeling from them.
I then, a few months later, went to look around Monkey Puzzle Day Nursery Astwick, and I instantly felt at ease. The girls there are all so professional, and instantly I had a good feeling.
My son started and has been there since pretty much their opening. He loves it, he has excelled so much since starting, and I’ve noticed a huge difference in his learning.
I recommend the nursery to all of my friends and family. The nursery as a whole is beautiful and is located on a farm.

Can’t fault anything with them.

Reply from Natasha Moniz, at Monkey Puzzle Day Nursery Astwick

Thank you so much Tia, we love having him. It is always so lovely to hear parents views on the nursery and gain their Feedback.

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Review from Mark N (Father of Child) published on 3 December 2019 Submitted via Website
Overall Experience

A fantastic, large, immaculate and friendly atmosphere created by the Monkey Puzzle team. Both son and daughter, aged three-and-a-half and eighteen months, love it here. Kind, professional and diligent staff. I love the family app and constant updates.

Reply from Natasha Moniz, Manager at Monkey Puzzle Day Nursery Astwick

Thank you Mark For such a positive review. It is lovely to hear your feedback and that the children are enjoying their time with us.

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Review from J M (Mother of Child) published on 25 November 2019 Submitted via Website
Overall Experience

I would like to say a huge thank you to everyone at the Astwick Monkey Puzzle. My daughter had not settled in a previous nursery and it was terrifying starting that process again, but what a breeze. The staff are so welcoming, friendly and have built up a brilliant relationship with my child. I love getting the pictures through the day and the ladies always give me a great run-through of what has been going on. They are not phased when my child cries and handle it with ease, love and care which is really reassuring as a parent. I feel confident and happy leaving her in their hands. I can see massive improvements in her development which is just incredible and a testament to the work they do. The nursery is perfectly situated, just off the A1 but in the midst of the countryside - ideal for exploration and fresh air. I love it, her father loves it and most importantly it gets a big ol' high five from my 11-month-old.

Reply from Natasha Moniz, Manager at Monkey Puzzle Day Nursery Astwick

Thank you so much for such a lovely review. It is so rewarding looking after children but extra special to know that parents are happy with what we do and that most importantly the babies and children are happy and settled with us. As a mum myself, I know how hard it is to leave your little ones...  

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Please contact us for latest vacancies.

News (0) & Events (0)

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Awards / Recognitions (2)

Meet the Team (1)

Natasha Moniz Job Title: Nursery Director Joined: 2019
Natasha Moniz
- NVQ Level 4 – Childcare & Education
- Safeguarding Officer
- First Aid Officer
- Paediatric First Aid

- Food Hygiene

I have over 20 years’ experience in childcare, first starting as a nursery nurse, then as a deputy manager and finally as a manager working for two of the largest nursery groups in the UK. I have also worked in the NHS with babies and their mothers who were suffering from severe mental health conditions.

I have always loved working with children, as no two days are the same, and children have a way of making you smile so much. It is a privilege to teach a child something new and watch them grow and develop until they are ready for school.

I love working at Monkey Puzzle Astwick as it's always been a dream of mine to own my own nursery, and I still can’t quite believe it’s finally happened! It’s no longer a job – it’s a passion, and I have absolutely loved putting my heart and soul into making my nursery such a beautiful place (even if I do say so myself). I also love the location on Church Farm; it’s such an amazing environment for the children and my staff team.

In my spare time, I enjoy spending time with my own three boys and my husband, going on family days out or movie nights at home on the sofa. I also enjoy spending time with friends and travelling.

An interesting fact about me…

I used to work as a PA for Charles Worthington (celebrity hairdresser) and also trained in fashion and make-up at the London College of Fashion before realising that my passion was caring for children.

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