Business Details
50+ Years
experience
Trusted Child Care Excellence in Leeds
Established in 1945, Springwood Nursery has been a trusted provider of high-quality childcare in Leeds for over seven decades. Our mission is to create a 'home away from home' where children feel safe, cherished, and inspired to grow as unique individuals. With a team of dedicated, qualified professionals, we prioritise warm, responsive relationships as the foundation for nurturing each child's emotional, social, and cognitive development. Rated 'Outstanding' by Ofsted, our nursery combines evidence-based practices with a passion for early years education, ensuring children thrive in an environment that values independence, creativity, and physical exploration. We maintain strong partnerships with families, recognising that collaboration enhances each child's learning journey. Our commitment to continuous improvement is reflected in our staff's ongoing training and our investment in enriching facilities, including a purpose-designed outdoor space that encourages sensory discovery.By adhering to the principles of the Early Years Foundation Stage, we provide a balanced curriculum that integrates child-led play with adult-guided learning. The glowing testimonials from generations of parents underscore our reputation as a nursery where children form joyful memories while developing essential life skills. Our dedication to nutrition is evident in our fresh, varied menus, which cater to diverse dietary needs. As a family-centred organisation, we extend our care beyond children to support parents, ensuring they feel confident and connected throughout their child's nursery experience.
Services
Early Years Education
Nourishment Programs
Outdoor Play
Parent Partnerships
Early Education Funding
Details
- Year established: 1945
Highlights and features
- Rated 'Outstanding' by Ofsted for exceptional childcare quality
- Established in 1945 with generations of childcare expertise
- Diverse partnerships deliver holistic learning experiences
- Nutritionist-approved menus meet diverse dietary requirements
- Purpose-designed outdoor spaces enhance sensory development
Associations and certifications
- Ofsted
What people say
Exceptional staff dedication
Like family atmosphere
Lifelong learning foundation
Nutritious meal programs
Outstanding Ofsted rating
Services
Early Years Education
Our curriculum follows the Early Years Foundation Stage framework while incorporating child-initiated learning. Qualified practitioners create stimulating environments that foster communication, physical development, and social-emotional growth through purposeful play. Continuous observation informs tailored learning plans that celebrate each child's unique progress, with regular parent consultations ensuring collaborative development tracking. Outdoor areas feature natural landscapes that encourage physical challenges and sensory exploration.
Nourishment Programs
Nutritionist-approved menus provide balanced meals using seasonal, organic ingredients. Our vegetarian-friendly approach includes MSC-certified fish, whole grains, and fresh produce prepared daily. Special dietary requirements are accommodated through individualised meal plans developed in partnership with families. Hydration is prioritised with purified alkaline water accessible throughout the day. Family-style mealtimes promote healthy eating habits and social interaction between children and caregivers.
Outdoor Play
Our specially designed garden offers multi-sensory learning through natural elements like flowing streams, caves, and climbing logs. Children engage in imaginative play at mud kitchens and sand areas while developing motor skills through physical challenges. The space incorporates music zones and performance stages to nurture creativity. Weather-appropriate activities ensure year-round access to fresh air and unstructured exploration in a secure, naturalistic environment.
Parent Partnerships
We maintain open communication through daily updates, learning journals, and formal consultations. Parents contribute to their child's learning stories, creating collaborative developmental records. Regular introduction visits ease transitions, while feedback systems ensure continuous service improvement. Family events and community partnerships strengthen connections between home and nursery, fostering continuity in each child's educational journey.
Early Education Funding
We administer government-funded childcare hours for eligible families, including 15-hour and extended funding options. Our team simplifies the funding process while maintaining year-round care through prorated hour distribution. Additional services like meals and outings remain transparently priced. Funding eligibility consultations help families maximise benefits while ensuring uninterrupted childcare provision throughout the year.
People
Sarah Hanlon
Sole Owner
Qualified NNEB practitioner with over 35 years' experience in early years education. Led Springwood Nursery since 1998, maintaining its reputation for excellence. Holds Level 3 food hygiene certification and implements innovative childcare practices while preserving traditional nurturing values.
Avalon
Deputy Manager
Qualified teacher with a BA in Primary Education (Early Years) and QTS. Brings expertise in aquatic sports education and four years' nursery teaching experience. Specialises in creating curiosity-driven learning environments that balance structured activities with child-led exploration.
Cathy
Business Administrative Manager
MBA holder responsible for operational efficiency since 2016. Facilitates staff development and maintains the nursery's financial integrity. Known for fostering an open workplace culture that values team contributions to continuous improvement.
Toochi
Chef
Certified nutrition professional with over 13 years' service. Creates seasonal menus using Level 2 nutrition principles and Level 3 culinary expertise. Ensures dietary diversity meets children's developmental needs while making healthy eating enjoyable through creative presentation.
Georgina
Deputy Manager Operations
BTEC Level 3 qualified with progressive responsibility since 2021. Oversees daily operations across nursery rooms while maintaining personal connections with children. Implements management strategies that prioritise individual child needs within organisational frameworks.
Questions
What age range do you cater for?
We provide childcare for children aged 3 months to 5 years, following the Early Years Foundation Stage framework.
What are your opening hours?
The nursery operates Monday to Friday, 8:00am to 6:00pm, for 50 weeks annually with standard closures for bank holidays and Christmas.
Do you accept government childcare funding?
Yes, we administer 15-hour and extended funding allocations while maintaining transparent pricing for additional services like meals.
How do you support special dietary requirements?
Our chef creates individualised meal plans in consultation with families, accommodating medical, cultural, and personal dietary preferences.
What makes your nursery unique?
Our combination of historical experience since 1945, 'Outstanding' Ofsted rating, purpose-designed outdoor space, and dedicated staff create a distinctive childcare environment.
How do you involve parents?
Through daily interactions, learning journals, formal consultations, and collaborative event planning that strengthens home-nursery connections.
Reviews (1)
Julia Butler
Nov 02, 2020
Report
Gave me information about a plant. Answered my questions and gave me suggestions on what to do and how to do it!
