Business Details
30 Years
experience
Ofsted Outstanding Nurseries in Halifax & Elland
Creative Learning Childcare has been dedicated to nurturing young minds since 1996, operating two Ofsted Outstanding-rated nurseries in Pye Nest, Halifax, and Elland. Founded on the principles of Reggio, High Scope, and Forest Schools philosophies, we provide a holistic approach to early years education, fostering curiosity, confidence, and a lifelong love of learning. Our team of qualified professionals, led by Managing Director Denise Gwizdak, prioritises individualised care, ensuring each childs academic, physical, and social potential is fulfilled. With purpose-designed facilities, including dedicated rooms for ages 3 months to 5 years and immersive outdoor learning spaces, we create environments where children thrive.Parental involvement is central to our ethos, supported by tools like our online Tapestry Learning Journal. Recognised for excellence in consecutive Ofsted inspections, we combine 28 years of operational experience with ongoing staff development to maintain the highest standards of care and education. Our commitment to innovation is evident in unique offerings such as our Forest School programme, led by a Level 3 qualified practitioner, and a workshop where children engage in creative woodwork projects. Transparency, ethical practices, and a family-centred approach underpin our operations, ensuring families feel confident in our ability to nurture their childrens growth from their first visit to school transition.
Services
Baby Room Care
Toddler Programmes
Pre-School Education
Forest School Sessions
Parental Involvement Support
Details
- Year established: 1996
Highlights and features
- 28 years of experience in early years education since 1996
- Ofsted Outstanding-rated nurseries with proven quality standards
- Forest School sessions led by a Level 3 qualified practitioner
- Online progress tracking via Tapestry Learning Journal for parents
- Sibling discounts available for families
What people say
Outstanding Ofsted ratings
Nurturing environments
Qualified staff
Innovative educational approaches
Excellent parental engagement
Services
Baby Room Care
Our Baby Room provides a safe, stimulating environment for children aged 3 months to 18 months. Designed with natural light, sleeping pods, and sensory activities, it supports early development through nurturing routines. Parents are involved in settling-in processes to ensure continuity of care from home.
Forest School Sessions
Weekly Forest School sessions, led by a Level 3 qualified leader, offer hands-on outdoor experiences for children aged 2+. Activities include natural resource exploration, risk assessment practice, and fostering appreciation for nature through structured play in on-site and local woodland areas.
Pre-School Education
Pre-school rooms cater to 3-5-year-olds with sand/water play, light box investigations, and early science activities. Project-based learning encourages creativity, while partnerships with local galleries showcase childrens work, building confidence and artistic expression.
Parental Involvement Support
We prioritise parental collaboration through our Tapestry Learning Journal, sharing observations and progress. Home photos/videos inform activity planning, and regular meetings ensure families are integral to their childs developmental journey and nursery experiences.
Woodwork Workshop
The workshop enables 3+ year-olds to explore woodwork with tools and recycled materials. This activity develops problem-solving skills, creativity, and risk assessment in a controlled environment, promoting sustainable practices through repurposing materials for imaginative construction projects.
People
Denise Gwizdak
Managing Director
BA, PGCE, and Early Years Teacher Status holder with over 28 years in childcare. Founded Creative Learning in 1996, blending Reggio, RIE, and Steiner philosophies. Studying MA in Early Childhood Education, she leads staff development and maintains hands-on involvement in both nurseries.
Bethany Gwizdak
Deputy Manager
BA (Hons) in Childhood Studies, managing the Elland nursery since 2015. Specialises in early years creativity, contributing to Ofsted Outstanding ratings. Coordinates curriculum delivery and staff training while engaging in practical childcare roles.
Ciara Kenneally
Senior Practitioner
BA (Hons) graduate supporting daily nursery operations in Pye Nest. Focuses on implementing educational philosophies and mentoring apprentices. Works closely with Denise to maintain high care standards and staff professional development.
Michaela Wadsworth
Deputy Manager
BA (Hons) practitioner overseeing operations in Ellands Pre-School room. Specialises in structured learning environments and outdoor education. Collaborates with Bethany to ensure curriculum consistency and adherence to Ofsteds Outstanding criteria.
Levii Dodd
Senior Educator
BA (Hons) educator managing transitions between age groups in Pye Nest. Focuses on seamless room moves and friendship continuity. Trained in Forest School methodologies, delivering sessions that integrate natural resource exploration with developmental goals.
Questions
What age groups do you cater for?
We care for children from 3 months to 5 years across dedicated rooms: Baby Room, Toddler Room, and Pre-School Room in both nurseries.
Which educational approaches do you follow?
Our practice integrates Reggio Emilia, High Scope, and Forest Schools philosophies, focusing on child-led learning, hands-on exploration, and outdoor natural experiences.
How are parents involved in their child's learning?
Parents access our Tapestry Learning Journal for real-time updates and contribute home photos/videos. Regular meetings and transition sessions ensure active family participation in developmental progress.
Are meals and snacks provided?
Children participate in cooking activities, and our Mud Kitchen and growing pods teach food origins. Specific dietary needs are accommodated with prior arrangements.
What qualifications do your staff hold?
Our team includes Early Years Teachers, graduates, Level 3 Forest School leaders, and apprentices. All staff undergo continuous professional development aligned with Ofsted standards.
How do you support children's transition to school?
We focus on confidence-building, independence, and social skills through structured projects and exhibitions. Regular communication with parents ensures readiness for formal education environments.
