Submit a Review for Friends Day Nursery, Saintfield
27 Craigy Road, Saintfield, Ballynahinch, BT24 7BZ
View full details of Friends Day Nursery, SaintfieldLatest Reviews for Friends Day Nursery, Saintfield
13 March 2026
We highly recommend Friends Day Nursery! As parents of a child with Down syndrome, we were naturally anxious about finding the right setting, but the staff here made the transition seamless. They are proactive about staff training and have made thoughtful adaptations, making sure he is fully
participating with his peers. Seeing him thrive, make friends, and gain independence has been wonderful. Our son gets excited to visit 'Friends' on every occasion, highlighting the trust, safety and most importantly, the happiness he experiences when in their care.
05 March 2026
Fantastic day nursery our oldest child attended for years until they went to high school our 2nd child also attends has done from a baby.They both love it our son is so happy to go the staff our wonderful nursery is so cosy and welcoming and all the staff our brilliant. Fantastic outdoor play area
and always doing different activities with the kids.Lovely home from home feel great menu for food our son has tried all different types of food which is fantastic. The staff know all the children and our very approachable would highly recommend this day nursery to anyone your children will be well looked after.
26 February 2026
A fantastic nursery with the most caring staff, who always have time for you and nothings ever too much for them. My two girls have been there since they were babies and they love the afterschool. I recommend to anyone local
25 February 2026
Staff are tremendous, very caring, hardworking and pleasant to deal with.
They have really taken time to get to know our child.
The range of activities our child is exposed to is great.
Our child settled really quickly and helped him settle into nursery school.
It is a brilliant and
very well run Daycare!
27 January 2026
When we were looking for a nursery for our little boy (then aged 2) we came across Friends and never looked back. The facilities are excellent and the staff are amazing. Our little boy is now in P1 and attends breakfast club and after-school club in Friends, and his brother (aged 3) is in the
preschool room. Friends drop them to and from school on the days they are there, which makes life so much easier and gives us peace of mind as we know they are in safe hands. The boys absolutely love Friends and skip out in the mornings if they know they are going that day. They have both learned so much, have so much fun and have made so many little pals. Our 3 year old has a severe food allergy and carries an EpiPen, so we were naturally anxious about sending him into a nursery environment for the first time, but the staff in Friends immediately put our minds at ease. We couldn't recommend them more.
28 November 2025
Our child has been with friends for just shy of a year now, and it has flown by. She settled in very quickly, building relationships with all of the kids and staff in her room. The food provided is great and introduces her to food she wouldn't regularly have at home, and she sleeps really well at
Friends. The staff are able to communicate very clearly how our daughter is getting on, and we appreciate the regular updates through the app. Overall, our daughter is very happy and settled at Friends, and we couldn't imagine her being anywhere else
24 November 2025
When we moved to NI from England last summer, we were anxious about settling the kids into a new setting, especially as my daughter was starting primary school and my son was only about 18months old. We chose Friends because of its fantastic outdoor space and friendly vibe, and it was the best
decision. 1 year later, both my kids love going to Friends, and I have to drag them away at hometime! Friends pick up my daughter straight from school for After School Club, and they're also super helpful in covering gaps in childcare when e.g., school finishes early or over the summer holidays. All the staff are not only professional and efficient, but genuinely warm and friendly. I would happily recommend Friends to anyone looking for a fun, vibrant, safe and caring environment for their children with outstanding space for outdoor play.
17 November 2025
As a nervous and anxious parent, choosing a nursery was a big decision. Choosing Friends is one of the best choices we've made. From day one, staff have been wonderful.They are warm, friendly, and genuinely care about my child's happiness and wellbeing. My daughter settled far better than I ever
imagined, a true testament to the nurturing and supportive environment. Communication with parents is excellent. I always feel informed and reassured, especially during those early days when I needed it most.
It's been amazing to watch how much my daughter has grown and developed. Especially her speech and social skills. She's always singing songs and loves showing off her art and crafts. Every day is filled with interactive and engaging experiences that clearly make her happy and excited to go in.
Knowing my daughter is in a positive, caring environment gives me peace of mind. I would recommend Friends to any parent looking for a place where their child will be truly valued and supported.
17 November 2025
Upon relocating home (NI) from England, I viewed Friends and instantly got a warm and welcoming feeling. Management were really understanding about reserving days as I hadnt ironed out the finer details with my employer etc. Being a first time mum, and anxious enough about leaving my 9 month old to
return to work, I couldn't rate the experience ive got from the staff at friends enough. My daughter has formed a great bond with all the staff; knowing she is safe, happy and extremely well cared for makes it all the more easier leaving her to go to work. The activities they do & learning through play has had a positive impact on her development and character. Fabulous Nursery.
12 November 2025
It' never easy sending your child to nursery when you're returning to work after maternity leave, but the team at Friends Day Nursery made the transition so much easier than I ever expected.
From the start, the staff in the baby room were so warm, welcoming, and calm - they instantly made both me
and my daughter feel comfortable. They've created such a lovely bond with her, and she's always so excited to go to nursery each day. I've noticed such amazing progress in her development since starting.
She loves the range of activities they do, and the food at Friends is brilliant too. My daughter has a dairy-free diet, and this has never been an issue - they always provide great alternatives and make sure she's getting healthy, nutritious meals.
The daily updates on the app are also fantastic. We can see what she's eaten, what she's been up to, and get little photos from time to time, which means so much while at work.
It's such a comfort knowing she's so well cared for, happy and thriving.
07 November 2025
My little boy has been at Friends Nursery just over a month now and it has been a great experience so far. Whilst we are very new to the setting we have been made to feel very comfortable and reassured that my son is being well looked after and cared for in a safe and secure enviornment. My little
boy has settled in so well and all the staff have been very welcoming and supportive. There is excellent communication, with lovely updates on how my little ones day is going.
07 November 2025
I couldn't recommend this nursery enough! Being a first time mum I was very nervous putting my son into child care, but the staff and the environment really put me at ease. I love how they treat every child as an individual and really take the time to get to know them. They have made my son's
nursery transition very smooth and knowing he is safe hands when I leave for work is the best thing a mum could ask for.
11 March 2025
Our little one joined in January 2025. She is thriving at this nursery. The baby room is a wonderful space for her to play, learn and develop. The staff are all warm, experienced and very knowledgeable. There is a mobile app the nursery use. You can stay updated on the daily schedule, receive photos
and general information. This is great for putting your mind at ease especially on those days your child might not be as settled. All of this has made transitioning back into work stress free. We know our baby is happy which makes this nursery the best choice for us. When we collect her she is always deep in play, giggling and exploring.
Book a visit so you can see for yourself.
07 January 2025
A fabulous setting with really caring and approachable staff. I feel happy in the knowledge that my kids are well looked after and are both learning and having fun. The place has a very homely and family feel.
03 January 2025
Friends Day Nursery is a great nursery. My daughter has been going there since she was 7 months old and now 16 months, runs through the door and over to the staff. They take great care of her and are always doing fun activities. The staff are all very friendly and trustworthy. Highly recommend!
03 January 2025
Friends Day Nursery is the best nursery with the best staff. I have worked in nurseries and had my children in numerous settings and Friends out do them all. The staff are so caring and loving, my little girl loves every member and has settled in every room. Two staff members in particular are
fantastic and not just managers who sit in their office they are hands on and approachable! The food is fantastic as well my little girl loves her food and she eats like a queen everyday!
03 January 2025
My child has been going since they were 6 months old and I was very nervous, but all the staff made myself and partner feel very reassured and most importantly my daughter. She has now been there 6 months and is very settled and I feel the nursery has brought her on so much with reaching her
milestones. She is happy everyday going in and at pick up time.
The nursery keep us updated with pictures and their app which has been invaluable to me as a mum who is nervous. It's extra peace of mind seeing what she's eaten, naps etc.
Overall I would really recommend Friends Day Nursery it ticks the boxes I was looking for as a parent. I have already started enquiring about a place for my next child.
03 January 2025
Friends Day Nursery has been amazing!! My child loving going in every morning to see all the workers and children and they have built a great bond with him. I get lots of photos to show me what he is getting up to and I'm so impressed with the different variety of activities they do with him from
just 10 months old. It is very clean, and a great range of facilities to help my son learn. Friends have also shown great flexibility by helping on days my other childcare has fallen through. Couldn't recommend Friends enough!!
03 July 2024
As we finish our preschool journey I can't thank Friends enough for the care, support and safe space they have gave us over the past year. We are so lucky to have this wonderful daycare as our local. The girls and owners are so kind to my son and supportive of his individuality. I was very worried
about "structured meals" but I needn't have. The girls in the preschool room cater to his particular needs whilst gently encouraging him to explore new foods. This makes him feel very content and safe. Every single one of them would not walk past him, even outside of the setting, without a friendly hello "name"! My son really looks forward to his "friends" days which is the highest praise of all. Having attended a different setting previously, where my son was reluctant to go, I do not take this for granted in the slightest. He particularly enjoys playing in well equipped outside area. We are so sad to leave but will look forward to seeing you all at the school gates!
27 February 2024
Friends Day Nursery have been brilliant since our baby started a couple of months ago. They have been great getting him settled in, and keeping me updated on how he is doing! We love having access to an app to see what he’s eating, when he sleeps etc, plus getting messages and pictures of what he’s
been up to really takes the stress out of leaving him to go to work. He’s getting on really well with the team in his room, is always happily playing with toys when I pick him up, loves the food and comes home a happy boy! Would happily recommend them to anyone!
Latest Reviews for Friends Day Nursery, Saintfield
13 March 2026
We highly recommend Friends Day Nursery! As parents of a child with Down syndrome, we were naturally anxious about finding the right setting, but the staff here made the transition seamless. They are proactive about staff training and have made thoughtful adaptations, making sure he is fully
participating with his peers. Seeing him thrive, make friends, and gain independence has been wonderful. Our son gets excited to visit 'Friends' on every occasion, highlighting the trust, safety and most importantly, the happiness he experiences when in their care.
05 March 2026
Fantastic day nursery our oldest child attended for years until they went to high school our 2nd child also attends has done from a baby.They both love it our son is so happy to go the staff our wonderful nursery is so cosy and welcoming and all the staff our brilliant. Fantastic outdoor play area
and always doing different activities with the kids.Lovely home from home feel great menu for food our son has tried all different types of food which is fantastic. The staff know all the children and our very approachable would highly recommend this day nursery to anyone your children will be well looked after.
26 February 2026
A fantastic nursery with the most caring staff, who always have time for you and nothings ever too much for them. My two girls have been there since they were babies and they love the afterschool. I recommend to anyone local
25 February 2026
Staff are tremendous, very caring, hardworking and pleasant to deal with.
They have really taken time to get to know our child.
The range of activities our child is exposed to is great.
Our child settled really quickly and helped him settle into nursery school.
It is a brilliant and
very well run Daycare!
27 January 2026
When we were looking for a nursery for our little boy (then aged 2) we came across Friends and never looked back. The facilities are excellent and the staff are amazing. Our little boy is now in P1 and attends breakfast club and after-school club in Friends, and his brother (aged 3) is in the
preschool room. Friends drop them to and from school on the days they are there, which makes life so much easier and gives us peace of mind as we know they are in safe hands. The boys absolutely love Friends and skip out in the mornings if they know they are going that day. They have both learned so much, have so much fun and have made so many little pals. Our 3 year old has a severe food allergy and carries an EpiPen, so we were naturally anxious about sending him into a nursery environment for the first time, but the staff in Friends immediately put our minds at ease. We couldn't recommend them more.
28 November 2025
Our child has been with friends for just shy of a year now, and it has flown by. She settled in very quickly, building relationships with all of the kids and staff in her room. The food provided is great and introduces her to food she wouldn't regularly have at home, and she sleeps really well at
Friends. The staff are able to communicate very clearly how our daughter is getting on, and we appreciate the regular updates through the app. Overall, our daughter is very happy and settled at Friends, and we couldn't imagine her being anywhere else
24 November 2025
When we moved to NI from England last summer, we were anxious about settling the kids into a new setting, especially as my daughter was starting primary school and my son was only about 18months old. We chose Friends because of its fantastic outdoor space and friendly vibe, and it was the best
decision. 1 year later, both my kids love going to Friends, and I have to drag them away at hometime! Friends pick up my daughter straight from school for After School Club, and they're also super helpful in covering gaps in childcare when e.g., school finishes early or over the summer holidays. All the staff are not only professional and efficient, but genuinely warm and friendly. I would happily recommend Friends to anyone looking for a fun, vibrant, safe and caring environment for their children with outstanding space for outdoor play.
17 November 2025
As a nervous and anxious parent, choosing a nursery was a big decision. Choosing Friends is one of the best choices we've made. From day one, staff have been wonderful.They are warm, friendly, and genuinely care about my child's happiness and wellbeing. My daughter settled far better than I ever
imagined, a true testament to the nurturing and supportive environment. Communication with parents is excellent. I always feel informed and reassured, especially during those early days when I needed it most.
It's been amazing to watch how much my daughter has grown and developed. Especially her speech and social skills. She's always singing songs and loves showing off her art and crafts. Every day is filled with interactive and engaging experiences that clearly make her happy and excited to go in.
Knowing my daughter is in a positive, caring environment gives me peace of mind. I would recommend Friends to any parent looking for a place where their child will be truly valued and supported.
17 November 2025
Upon relocating home (NI) from England, I viewed Friends and instantly got a warm and welcoming feeling. Management were really understanding about reserving days as I hadnt ironed out the finer details with my employer etc. Being a first time mum, and anxious enough about leaving my 9 month old to
return to work, I couldn't rate the experience ive got from the staff at friends enough. My daughter has formed a great bond with all the staff; knowing she is safe, happy and extremely well cared for makes it all the more easier leaving her to go to work. The activities they do & learning through play has had a positive impact on her development and character. Fabulous Nursery.
12 November 2025
It' never easy sending your child to nursery when you're returning to work after maternity leave, but the team at Friends Day Nursery made the transition so much easier than I ever expected.
From the start, the staff in the baby room were so warm, welcoming, and calm - they instantly made both me
and my daughter feel comfortable. They've created such a lovely bond with her, and she's always so excited to go to nursery each day. I've noticed such amazing progress in her development since starting.
She loves the range of activities they do, and the food at Friends is brilliant too. My daughter has a dairy-free diet, and this has never been an issue - they always provide great alternatives and make sure she's getting healthy, nutritious meals.
The daily updates on the app are also fantastic. We can see what she's eaten, what she's been up to, and get little photos from time to time, which means so much while at work.
It's such a comfort knowing she's so well cared for, happy and thriving.
07 November 2025
My little boy has been at Friends Nursery just over a month now and it has been a great experience so far. Whilst we are very new to the setting we have been made to feel very comfortable and reassured that my son is being well looked after and cared for in a safe and secure enviornment. My little
boy has settled in so well and all the staff have been very welcoming and supportive. There is excellent communication, with lovely updates on how my little ones day is going.
07 November 2025
I couldn't recommend this nursery enough! Being a first time mum I was very nervous putting my son into child care, but the staff and the environment really put me at ease. I love how they treat every child as an individual and really take the time to get to know them. They have made my son's
nursery transition very smooth and knowing he is safe hands when I leave for work is the best thing a mum could ask for.
11 March 2025
Our little one joined in January 2025. She is thriving at this nursery. The baby room is a wonderful space for her to play, learn and develop. The staff are all warm, experienced and very knowledgeable. There is a mobile app the nursery use. You can stay updated on the daily schedule, receive photos
and general information. This is great for putting your mind at ease especially on those days your child might not be as settled. All of this has made transitioning back into work stress free. We know our baby is happy which makes this nursery the best choice for us. When we collect her she is always deep in play, giggling and exploring.
Book a visit so you can see for yourself.
07 January 2025
A fabulous setting with really caring and approachable staff. I feel happy in the knowledge that my kids are well looked after and are both learning and having fun. The place has a very homely and family feel.
03 January 2025
Friends Day Nursery is a great nursery. My daughter has been going there since she was 7 months old and now 16 months, runs through the door and over to the staff. They take great care of her and are always doing fun activities. The staff are all very friendly and trustworthy. Highly recommend!
03 January 2025
Friends Day Nursery is the best nursery with the best staff. I have worked in nurseries and had my children in numerous settings and Friends out do them all. The staff are so caring and loving, my little girl loves every member and has settled in every room. Two staff members in particular are
fantastic and not just managers who sit in their office they are hands on and approachable! The food is fantastic as well my little girl loves her food and she eats like a queen everyday!
03 January 2025
My child has been going since they were 6 months old and I was very nervous, but all the staff made myself and partner feel very reassured and most importantly my daughter. She has now been there 6 months and is very settled and I feel the nursery has brought her on so much with reaching her
milestones. She is happy everyday going in and at pick up time.
The nursery keep us updated with pictures and their app which has been invaluable to me as a mum who is nervous. It's extra peace of mind seeing what she's eaten, naps etc.
Overall I would really recommend Friends Day Nursery it ticks the boxes I was looking for as a parent. I have already started enquiring about a place for my next child.
03 January 2025
Friends Day Nursery has been amazing!! My child loving going in every morning to see all the workers and children and they have built a great bond with him. I get lots of photos to show me what he is getting up to and I'm so impressed with the different variety of activities they do with him from
just 10 months old. It is very clean, and a great range of facilities to help my son learn. Friends have also shown great flexibility by helping on days my other childcare has fallen through. Couldn't recommend Friends enough!!
03 July 2024
As we finish our preschool journey I can't thank Friends enough for the care, support and safe space they have gave us over the past year. We are so lucky to have this wonderful daycare as our local. The girls and owners are so kind to my son and supportive of his individuality. I was very worried
about "structured meals" but I needn't have. The girls in the preschool room cater to his particular needs whilst gently encouraging him to explore new foods. This makes him feel very content and safe. Every single one of them would not walk past him, even outside of the setting, without a friendly hello "name"! My son really looks forward to his "friends" days which is the highest praise of all. Having attended a different setting previously, where my son was reluctant to go, I do not take this for granted in the slightest. He particularly enjoys playing in well equipped outside area. We are so sad to leave but will look forward to seeing you all at the school gates!
27 February 2024
Friends Day Nursery have been brilliant since our baby started a couple of months ago. They have been great getting him settled in, and keeping me updated on how he is doing! We love having access to an app to see what he’s eating, when he sleeps etc, plus getting messages and pictures of what he’s
been up to really takes the stress out of leaving him to go to work. He’s getting on really well with the team in his room, is always happily playing with toys when I pick him up, loves the food and comes home a happy boy! Would happily recommend them to anyone!