Business Details
32 Years
experience
Trusted Childcare Services in Knaresborough
Kids at Heart has been dedicated to providing exceptional childcare for over 21 years, offering a nurturing environment where children from babies to teenagers can thrive. Our nurseries and mobile crche services are designed to foster holistic development through purposeful play, structured learning, and a strong emphasis on safety and well-being. With Ofsted-rated 'Good' settings, including Nidderdale Nursery and The School House, we prioritise individualised care, ensuring each child receives tailored attention to support their unique growth.Our experienced team, led by Early Years Professional Julie Shaw, combines expertise with passion, delivering home-cooked meals, age-specific resources, and a commitment to building strong partnerships with families. We maintain rigorous safeguarding standards, ongoing staff training, and a focus on creating joyful, stimulating spaces where children develop confidence, independence, and a lifelong love of learning.
Services
Nurseries
Mobile Crche
Kids Club
Home-Cooked Meals
Safeguarding Programs
Details
- Year established: 1994
Highlights and features
- We have over 21 years of experience in early years childcare.
- Our dedicated Key Person system ensures individualised attention.
- We provide home-cooked meals using locally sourced ingredients.
- All settings maintain Ofsted 'Good' ratings for quality assurance.
- Staff undergo continuous professional development and safeguarding training.
Associations and certifications
- Ofsted
What people say
Nothing is too much trouble
Great and varied activities
Positive and happy energy
Amazing catering for allergies
Secure and happy environment
Services
Nurseries
Our nurseries provide structured childcare for infants to preschoolers, following the Early Years Foundation Stage framework. With age-specific rooms, outdoor play areas, and trained staff, we focus on developmental milestones through purposeful play and individualised learning plans tailored to each child's needs.
Mobile Crche
Bespoke mobile crche services cater to events and private functions across the UK. Our qualified team creates safe, engaging environments for children, allowing parents to participate in activities while ensuring high standards of supervision and age-appropriate entertainment.
Kids Club
Woodlands Kids Club offers extended care for school-age children, combining homework support with recreational activities. Located in Harrogate, the club provides a secure space for social development, creative projects, and physical play, complementing school curricula and parental needs.
Home-Cooked Meals
Daily meals are prepared on-site using fresh, locally sourced ingredients. Our menus meet dietary requirements while promoting healthy eating habits. With 5-star kitchen ratings, we ensure balanced nutrition, including allergy-friendly options and educational opportunities about food choices.
Safeguarding Programs
Comprehensive safeguarding policies align with Ofsted standards, featuring staff DBS checks, regular training, and incident reporting systems. We maintain secure environments through controlled access, parental communication protocols, and partnerships with local authorities to ensure child welfare.
People
Julie Shaw
General Manager
Julie holds a BA Hons in Childhood Studies and Early Years Professional Status. With over 25 years in childcare, she founded Kids at Heart in 1994. She contributes to Knaresborough Children's Centre advisory committees and focuses on quality improvement.
Hannah
Area Manager
Hannah has a BA Hons in Childhood Studies and was nationally recognised as a top 3 Nursery Practitioner. She oversees operational excellence across settings, prioritising staff development and maintaining high educational standards through practical implementation.
Questions
What age groups do you cater for?
We care for children from infancy through to teenagers across our nurseries, kids club, and mobile crèche services.
Are meals included in nursery fees?
Yes, we provide breakfast, two course hot meals, and snacks using home-cooked recipes tailored to dietary requirements.
How do you support child development?
Our staff create individual learning plans aligned with EYFS guidelines, focusing on purposeful play, social skills, and confidence-building activities.
What safety measures are in place?
All staff have enhanced DBS checks, paediatric first aid training, and safeguarding certifications. Our settings maintain Ofsted 'Good' ratings.
Can I visit before enrolling?
We encourage prospective parents to arrange visits to experience our facilities and meet the team.
Reviews (1)
Open Podiatry
Jul 12, 2018
Report
Provided an excellent mobile crche during my wedding in Harrogate. The staff were friendly, kids were kept well entertained and the parents really appreciated the help. Highly recommended if you want a professional crche service during busy weddings or special events.
