Business Details
Award-Winning Childcare and Early Learning in Rochdale
The Willows Nursery was established over a decade ago with a clear mission: to provide exceptional childcare and early years education in a secure, nurturing environment. Our team of qualified professionals, including Early Years Teachers and experienced nursery managers, is dedicated to fostering confidence and independence in children aged 3 months to 5 years. Recognised as 'Outstanding' by Ofsted in both 2014 and subsequent inspections, we continuously strive to exceed standards through purpose-built facilities, age-specific learning environments, and a curriculum that balances structured activities with creative play.Our commitment to excellence extends to nutrition, hygiene, and parental partnership, evidenced by our 'Golden Grin Award' for healthy practices. With convenient access and flexible hours from 7:30am to 6:00pm, we aim to make every child's early years experience both joyful and foundational for future success.
Services
Baby Care
Toddler Programs
Preschool Education
Outdoor Play Areas
Healthy Meal Provision
Flexible Hours
Parent Consultations
Age-Specific Learning
Special Dietary Needs
Ofsted-Registered Care
Highlights and features
- We hold consecutive 'Outstanding' Ofsted ratings since 2014
- Established nursery with over 10 years' experience in early years care
- Qualified teachers with specialist Early Years training
- Award-winning healthy eating and hygiene practices
- Open-door policy for parental visits and engagement
Associations and certifications
- Ofsted
- Golden Grin Award
What people say
Outstanding Ofsted rating
Healthy meal options
Qualified teaching staff
Secure environments
Parental engagement
Services
Baby Care
Our baby room caters for children aged 3 months to 20 months with dedicated play areas, sleep facilities, and sensory activities. Qualified staff provide individualised attention while promoting early developmental milestones through structured routines and free play.
Toddler Programs
For toddlers aged 20 months to 3 years, we offer five activity areas including quiet spaces, messy play zones, and outdoor environments. Our curriculum develops motor skills and social interaction through guided exploration and focused group sessions.
Preschool Education
Children aged 3+ engage in structured learning with 'Letters and Sounds' activities and teacher-led sessions. Our Early Years Foundation Stage curriculum prepares children for school through literacy, numeracy, and creative development in a stimulating classroom environment.
Outdoor Play
Secure outdoor spaces feature age-appropriate play equipment and natural elements. Children develop physical coordination and social skills through supervised outdoor activities that encourage exploration and imaginative play in all weather conditions.
Healthy Meal Provision
Freshly prepared meals follow seasonal weekly menus with breakfast, hot lunch, and tea options. We accommodate special dietary requirements and follow Rochdale Council's 'Golden Grin Award' standards for nutrition, hydration, and oral hygiene practices.
People
Tamsin Johnson
Director/Nursery Manager
BA (HONS) PGCE qualified with specialist Early Years Practitioner status. Brings extensive primary school teaching experience and leadership in early years education to our nursery management.
Stacey Mckler
Director/Nursery Manager
BA (HONS) QTS qualified Early Years Practitioner with five years' teaching experience. Combines academic expertise with practical nursery leadership to deliver high-quality childcare standards.
Questions
What age groups do you cater for?
We care for children aged 3 months to 5 years across three dedicated units with age-appropriate facilities and activities.
Are meals included in nursery fees?
Yes, we provide breakfast, hot lunch, and tea with fresh water available throughout the day. Special dietary needs can be accommodated.
Can I visit the nursery before enrolling?
We operate an open-door policy - you're welcome to visit anytime to see our facilities and meet staff.
What qualifications do your staff hold?
All staff are appropriately qualified with our managers holding teaching degrees and Early Years Practitioner status.
How do you support child development?
We follow structured curricula aligned with Early Years Foundation Stage standards while encouraging creative play and individual progress.
What accreditation does the nursery have?
We maintain Ofsted 'Outstanding' ratings and have received Rochdale Council's 'Golden Grin Award' for healthy practices.
