The Woodlands Nursery

Crow Lane East, Newton-le-Willows WA12 9TX
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9.9 35 Reviews
  • The Woodlands Nursery, Newton-le-Willows
The Woodlands Nursery, located in Newton-le-Willows, provides a nurturing environment where children can grow, explore, and thrive.

The nursery believes that happy, active children learn best. Its dedicated team offers high-quality early years education centred on outdoor exploration, independence, and emotional wellbeing.

Children enjoy sociable mealtimes and are introduced to a variety of tastes and textures that encourage healthy eating habits. All menus are carefully designed to meet early years nutritional standards.

The setting follows the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) curriculum, enhanced by a child-led philosophy. Outdoor exploration, self-directed learning, and open-ended play are at the heart of the approach.
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Type of Service

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

Group/Owner

Person in Charge

  • Emma Gilligan (Manager)

Number of Childcare Staff

  • 35

Total Places for Children

  • 136

Age Range

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

Funding & Fees

  • 7.30am-6pm
    £68.67

Opening Times

  • Monday 07:30-18:00
    Tuesday 07:30-18:00
    Wednesday 07:30-18:00
    Thursday 07:30-18:00
    Friday 07:30-18:00

When Closed

  • Bank Holidays & 1 week at Christmas

Parking

  • A large car park space is available for families and staff members

The Woodlands Nursery Reviews (35)

9.9

The Woodlands Nursery has a Review Score of 9.9 (9.931) out of 10, based on 35 reviews in the last 2 years.
Over all time The Woodlands Nursery has 35 reviews.

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Total of 35, showing 1-20
Review from Kelly B (Mother of Child) published on 21 October 2025 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
Our daughter attends Woodlands Nursery, and we couldn't be happier with the care she receives. The team have been absolutely fantastic in helping her settle and adapt, she struggled a little at first, but now she looks forward to going in every day.


The baby room staff are amazing, I can't praise

them all enough, so caring, patient, and attentive to our child's needs. The nursery itself is always clean, safe, and very welcoming. You can tell the staff genuinely care and take pride in creating such a lovely environment for the children.


We're so grateful for everything the Woodlands team have done to settle our daughter and make it a pleasant experience for us all. I highly recommend Woodlands.

Reply from Emma Gilligan, Manager at The Woodlands Nursery
Thank you for your review. We have amazing staff here at The Woodlands and take great care of the staff and children here. We offer a high quality experience for all families.
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Review from Ellen H (Mother of Child) published on 14 October 2025 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
The nursery is always clean, warm and welcoming. My child loves coming to nursery- she enjoys the staff, the activities and the food. The different age-appropriate rooms mean children can move around as they develop. Would recommend the nursery.
Reply from Emma Gilligan, Manager at The Woodlands Nursery
Thank you for your review. We have lots of fun activities available every day in the morning and afternoon for the children to take part in.
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Review from S B (Father of Child) published on 14 October 2025 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
Our child has had a really positive experience at Woodlands. The staff are always friendly, provide information about the child's day and have been great with our child. She is always happy to go into nursery and always has a positive day!
Reply from Emma Gilligan, Manager at The Woodlands Nursery
Thank you for your review. All our staff are friendly and knowledgeable and give positive feedback every day.
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Review from Elesha L (Mother of Child) published on 14 October 2025 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
I highly recommend The Woodlands Nursery. My son has attended for the last two years and he's thriving.


The staff are exceptional, friendly and nurturing and I receive regular updates on my child's progress. His speech and language skills have excelled, along with his confidence.


Each room is

welcoming and I particularly love how much they spend outside exploring the wonderful gardens.
Reply from Emma Gilligan, Manager at The Woodlands Nursery
Thank you for the review. We have a lovely large outdoor space, in addition to each room having their own outdoor space.
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Review from R M (Mother of Child) published on 14 October 2025 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
Our son has been at the nursery since he was 9 months old and he's now almost 3, and we couldn't be happier with how much he's developed. He's grown up with a lovely group of friends, many of whom he's known since baby class, and it's been wonderful watching them all move through the nursery together.
The
staff are incredibly encouraging and take such a personal approach with each child. They've supported him in so many areas - from learning to speak clearly, to counting, recognising colours, and even with potty training. He loves to tell us what food he's eaten at nursery each day! It's always nutritious and delicious, he always asks for seconds! We're often told how advanced he is, and we know a big part of that is thanks to the amazing care and attention he's received here.
It's a truly lovely nursery with even lovelier staff - always approachable, friendly, and easy to deal with. We couldn't recommend it more highly.
Reply from Emma Gilligan, Manager at The Woodlands Nursery
Thank you for the review. Every child develops differently, this means we adapt learning for each child to ensure we challenge then and support them in their next steps of learning. Its lovely to see…read more
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Review from Chloe B (Mother of Child) published on 14 October 2025 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
All the staff have been very helpful from when I drop my child off and when he leaves nursery. They are very informative and advise you what the course of action they have set in place. As a mum, you want your child to be happy at a place and I know he's safe with is reassuring.
Reply from Emma Gilligan, Manager at The Woodlands Nursery
Thank you for your review. All staff have excellent communication face to face and through our app.
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Review from Rebecca C (Mother of Child) published on 10 October 2025 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
Our son went to Woodlands for 2 years, passing through little learners and then preschool. Although he was very apprehensive at first, he soon settled in with the amazing staff they have. We visited and scoped out every nursery in the vicinity for our son, and would hands down choose this place over
and over. We travelled out of area to take him there because of this, and still do travel from out of area to take our daughter, as there is just no comparison with how good they are in every respect. Thank you for always keeping us at ease knowing our children have been, and will be, looked after in the same way we would look after them, when we aren't there.
Reply from Emma Gilligan, Manager at The Woodlands Nursery
Thank you for your review. We offer high quality care and provision here at The Woodlands Nursery. We have caring, respectful and long standing staff that work here. We offer a friendly environment…read more
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Review from H W (Mother of Child) published on 8 October 2025 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
Our daughter has been attending Woodlands Nursery for 2 years now and has always absolutely loved it. The staff have been brilliant with her in every room she has been in and have got to know her so well. I love all the little extra things they have on through the year through the seasons. My little
girl is absolutely thriving and has learned so much through all the activities and she absolutely loves how much time she spends outdoors playing with so many different experiences.
Reply from Emma Gilligan, Manager at The Woodlands Nursery
Thank you for your review. We like to get our families involved throughout different types of the year with different competitions and have lots of fun.
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Review from G D (Mother of Child) published on 8 October 2025 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
My little one has been at The Woodlands for just over 2 years now and he loves it. The staff are friendly and approachable and really take the time to get to know all of the children and their families. Each transition has been emotional for my son, but the nursery have supported him, nurtured him,
and have communicated with us throughout each move to ensure he feels happy.
Nothing is too much trouble and the nursery encourages you to ring to check in if you have any concerns at all. My son absolutely loves going to 'pre-school' and it is lovely to hear him come out with new things like the days of the week song, new nursery rhymes (twinkle twinkle chocolate bar was a favourite for a while) and talking about things that he has done each day and his friends there. It really is lovely knowing he is so happy there.
Reply from Emma Gilligan, Manager at The Woodlands Nursery
Thank you for the lovely review. We always try to communicate effectively with our families and staff members. We like to give lots of opportunities for communication and language, some examples of…read more
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Review from N G (Mother of Child) published on 7 October 2025 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
My son recently started, I was apprehensive at first as I am a first time mother, he settled really well in his first week and I believe that's due to the staffs attentiveness and my son feels comfortable with them. I like that there are a large number of staff ensuring the children are well cared for,
I also get the impression that the children are treated as individuals with individual personalities.
Reply from Emma Gilligan, Manager at The Woodlands Nursery
Thank you for the lovely review. We have a lot of long standing caring staff here at The Woodlands Nursery. The staff all know each child's interests and do some lovely activities around these.
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Review from R H (Mother of Child) published on 7 October 2025 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
After viewing all the nurseries in the area, Woodlands Nursery stood out to me and felt like the best choice for my 13 month old daughter. Since starting she has been so well cared for. It's the hardest thing in the world to hand your baby over to be in other people's care but I have always been so
impressed with the love and care shown to my daughter during her 18 months at Woodlands, first in Baby Room, then in Tots, and now in Early Learners.
She has always eaten and slept well at nursery and the staff are accommodating of my daughter's vegetarian diet.
The activities my daughter takes part in are fun and engaging. She is always so happy when I pick her up and I can tell that she's had a fun day!
The outdoor space is large and impressive, lots of space for little ones to run around.
My daughter has really advanced since being at Woodlands, her speech is great for her age and she is such a confident little girl, Woodlands has a big part to play in that!
Reply from Emma Gilligan, Manager at The Woodlands Nursery
Thank you for the lovely review. Our menus are designed weekly seasonal. We have a chef who cooks all our meals freshly each day. As part of our curriculum we teach all children to become confident,…read more
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Review from Scott E (Father of Child) published on 3 October 2025 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
Our Daughter Amelia hs been going to The Woodlands Nursery for almost a year now and has grown so much in that time, we love seeing the activities she does during the day and hearing little stories on pick up about how things have gone. The staff have always been friendly, kind and helpful and its a
really positive and nurturing enviroment to be a part of, we couldnt ask for much more! We deinfetly will also be sending out second child here when he time is right!
Reply from Emma Gilligan, Manager at The Woodlands Nursery
Thank you for your lovely review. It's been great to be part of her learning and development over the past year. There are a variety of activities everyday throughout the day for the children to…read more
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Review from Eimear W (Mother of Child) published on 1 October 2025 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
We have been with Woodlands Nursery for nearly 7 years, trusting them with the care of both my girls when I went back to work after maternity leave. The staff are kind, compassionate and caring, I could relax and focus on my job knowing my girls are in good hands. I cannot speak highly enough of the
woodlands team. Thank you.
Reply from Emma Gilligan, Manager at The Woodlands Nursery
Thank you for your review. The team at the Woodlands Nursery know all the children in our care with a deep knowledge and understanding.
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Review from S G (Mother of Child) published on 1 October 2025 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
My little boy is always happy to go in nursery. He enjoys being with the members of staff and the team have helped him mature from a little baby to a confident little toddler. It is hard to leave your baby with other people but they make me feel so at ease and he now picks up his bag in the morning
and walks to the door ready for the day.
Reply from Emma Gilligan, Manager at The Woodlands Nursery
Thank you for the lovely review. We adopt a home from home approach so all our children feel safe and cared for daily whilst they continue to learn daily.
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Review from E S (Mother of Child) published on 1 October 2025 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
Lovely nursery, my little boy has been going since he was 11 months and he's loved it. He's 3 now and has made some lovely friends and all of the staff are brilliant with him. They genuinely care about the children and it shows, all of the staff are so friendly and always look so calm and happy. Would
highly recommend.
Reply from Emma Gilligan, Manager at The Woodlands Nursery
Thank you for the lovely review. Our staff are really friendly and approachable for all our families.
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Review from C J (Mother of Child) published on 1 October 2025 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
My daughter started at this nursery in April, and I couldn't be happier with how well she has settled in. I was worried at first about how she would adjust, but the staff were so reassuring and welcoming from the beginning which made the transition easier than i thought.
Now she absolutely loves coming
in each day, It's clear she feels happy which makes such a big difference.
Reply from Emma Gilligan, Manager at The Woodlands Nursery
Thank you for the lovely review. We always ensure we help to support our families during the settling in process to support each child to settle into Nursery.
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Review from Lauren B (Mother of Child) published on 1 October 2025 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
We couldn't be happier with this nursery! From the moment we joined, we felt such a welcoming, family atmosphere. The staff are incredible - they go above and beyond every single day, showing genuine care and kindness. Our child absolutely loves going and is thriving here. We've seen so much growth
in his learning, confidence, and development since starting. It's clear that the team put their hearts into creating a nurturing environment where children feel safe, happy, and excited to learn. We're so grateful to be part of such a wonderful community. Highly recommend!
Reply from Emma Gilligan, Manager at The Woodlands Nursery
Thank you for the lovely review. Each day we show care and kindness to not only the children but to each staff member. We recognise well being is important for both our children and staff members.
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Review from Rachael R (Mother of Child) published on 1 October 2025 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
Our little girl has only been there a couple of weeks but we are already so happy with everything! The app updates are amazing and being able to call and check in on her has really made the settling in period easier for mum dad and child. Always greeted with a warm, friendly smile. Shout out to Paige
in Tots room who I feel has really gone above and beyond to make our daughter feel welcome and us as parents very comfortable with our new routine.
Reply from Emma Gilligan, Manager at The Woodlands Nursery
Thank you for your lovely review. We recognise settling in for the first time at Nursery can be challenging for both children and parents. We always try to make this transition and easy as possible.…read more
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Review from Lauren B (Mother of Child) published on 30 September 2025 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
My son started Woodlands Nursery last October in the Little Learners class. They were absolutely fantastic at settling him (and me!) in. They listened to his interests and adapted to make him feel comfortable and enjoy his time there. He has formed lovely bonds with the staff and loves going in 2 days
a week. The recent move to the pre-school room has been a big adjustment for him but again the staff go above and beyond to ensure he is happy. So glad we chose Woodlands!
Reply from Emma Gilligan, Manager at The Woodlands Nursery
Thank you for your lovely review. We are so happy he has settled into the preschool room. The staff support each room during the transition time to ensure there is a smooth transition.
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Review from E H (Mother of Child) published on 29 September 2025 Submitted via Website • Report
Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5
The Woodlands Nursery has been the perfect place for my child to grow within. They have been a part of the nursery since they were 1 and now at nearly 4 years old I can see how their commitment to the wellbeing of the children has helped my child blossom throughout their time there. They are focused
on nurturing, whilst providing excellent structure and building skills needed to thrive outside of the nursery based on the national curriculum. There is always excellent communication and the food they provide the children is outstanding, healthy and is nutritionally balanced. An outstanding facility I would recommend to anyone!
Reply from Emma Gilligan, Manager at The Woodlands Nursery
Thank you for the lovely review. We give daily feedback to parents in variety of ways. This can be done through the app, face to face or even through parents evenings.
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Current Review Score: 9.9 (9.931)

Overview of Review Score

The Review Score of 9.9 (9.931) out of 10 for The Woodlands Nursery 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 35 Reviews in the last 24 months.
  2. The score for the number of positive Reviews is 5.0 out of 5 from 35 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 4.931 for The Woodlands Nursery is calculated as follows: ( (391 Excellents x 5) + (29 Goods x 4) ) ÷ 420 Ratings = 4.931
  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 The Woodlands Nursery is based on 35 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 136 number of registered child places is 27.2, which has been reached with 35 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 (0)

Meet the Team (2)

Emma

Emma Gilligan

Job Title: Nursery Manager Joined: 2024

Hello,
My name is Emma, I have a BA (HONS) in Primary Education, and I have been in the childcare sector for over 20 years. I have a passion for working with children. I have more than 15 years of management experience. I have a young daughter myself who has a hobby in dance. This involves travelling around the UK for dance competitions. I am passionate about giving every child the best possible start in life, and a key strength of mine is having positive, strong parent partnerships with all families.

No image found

Lisa Williams

Job Title: Deputy Manager Joined: 2017

Hello,
My name is Lisa, and I hold a Level 5 qualification and have completed a range of additional training to help support children and families. I have experience working with lots of wonderful practitioners and children who have helped me develop my practice along the way. I enjoy bringing child-centred ideas into everyday practice. I am committed to giving children a nursery where they feel happy and inspired to learn.


Outside of work, I enjoy spending time socialising with family and friends. I also enjoy taking my dog, Barney, for walks around the local area and exploring new places.

Frequently Asked Questions about The Woodlands Nursery

What is the Age Range of Children that The Woodlands Nursery accepts?

The Woodlands Nursery accepts Children aged from 0 years 3 months to 5 years 0 months.

What Days & Hours is The Woodlands Nursery Open?

The Woodlands Nursery is open: Monday 07:30-18:00, Tuesday 07:30-18:00, Wednesday 07:30-18:00, Thursday 07:30-18:00, Friday 07:30-18:00.

How many Children does The Woodlands Nursery have capacity for?

The Woodlands Nursery has capacity for a total of 136 Children.

How far is The Woodlands Nursery to the centre of Newton-le-Willows?

0.8 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 The Woodlands Nursery to verify any information. View our terms and conditions. The Woodlands Nursery has an Enhanced Service - more info.