Business Details
32 Years
experience
Trusted Childcare & Early Education in Mansfield
Bright Sparks Nursery has been a trusted provider of early years childcare and education since 1994, offering a nurturing environment where children develop enthusiasm for learning and play. As a family-run nursery rated 'Good' in all areas by OFSTED, we combine over 30 years of experience with a graduate-led workforce to deliver the Early Years Foundation Stage Framework. Our rural setting near Mansfield provides unique outdoor learning opportunities, including woodland exploration and partnerships with local ecological initiatives.We prioritise holistic development through meticulous planning, highly qualified staff, and strong family partnerships, ensuring children transition seamlessly to school. Our commitment to excellence is evidenced by awards such as the Woodland Trust Gold Award and membership in the Soil Association's Food for Life scheme.
Services
Babies Care
Toddler Development
Preschool Education
Yoga Classes
Football Sessions
Dance Workshops
Woodland Exploration
Nutritious Meals
Transition Support
Parent Partnerships
Details
- Year established: 1994
Highlights and features
- We have over 30 years of experience in early years childcare.
- Our nursery is OFSTED-rated 'Good' in all assessment areas.
- We offer unique outdoor learning in a woodland ecosystem.
- Our staff include Early Years Teachers and qualified professionals.
- We provide tailored development plans for every child.
Associations and certifications
- OFSTED
What people say
Exceptional childcare
Excellent progress
Nurturing environment
Well-prepared for school
Dedicated staff
Services
Babies Care
Our dedicated baby unit provides a safe, stimulating environment for infants aged 3 months to 18 months. Highly trained staff deliver individualised care aligned with the Early Years Foundation Stage Framework, focusing on sensory development, bonding, and early communication. Each baby is assigned a key person to ensure consistent, nurturing relationships.
Toddler Development
For children aged 18 months to 3 years, our toddler programme encourages physical, social, and emotional growth through structured play and exploration. Activities are designed to build independence, language skills, and confidence, supported by a 1:4 staff-to-child ratio and regular progress assessments.
Preschool Education
Our preschool unit prepares children aged 3 to 5 years for school through a curriculum blending play, creativity, and structured learning. We focus on literacy, numeracy, and problem-solving while fostering friendships and self-regulation. Transition support includes school readiness assessments and collaboration with Reception teachers.
Woodland Exploration
Children engage in forest school-style activities within our onsite woodland area and Stonehills Plantation. These sessions promote environmental awareness, physical coordination, and risk assessment through supervised exploration, den-building, and nature-based projects aligned with ecological education standards.
Nutritious Meals
A trained chef prepares balanced, home-cooked meals daily using fresh, locally sourced ingredients. Menus include nursery-grown fruits and vegetables, ensuring children receive essential nutrients. Dietary requirements are accommodated, and mealtimes are used to develop social skills and healthy eating habits.
People
Laura Gapski
Nursery Director
Laura Gapski has over 15 years of experience in early years education, including Early Years Professional Status. As second-generation owner, she leads with a commitment to outdoor learning, staff development, and family partnerships, ensuring the nursery maintains its OFSTED 'Good' rating.
Questions
What age groups do you cater for?
We provide care for children aged 3 months to 5 years, divided into Babies, Tweenies (toddlers), and Pre-school units.
Are meals included in the fees?
Yes, all meals and snacks are included, featuring home-cooked dishes with nursery-grown and locally sourced ingredients.
How do you support children's learning and development?
We follow the Early Years Foundation Stage Framework, with individualised learning plans, regular assessments, and partnerships with parents to track progress.
What outdoor activities are available?
Children enjoy daily access to play areas, woodland exploration at Stonehills Plantation, and eco-awareness projects as part of our outdoor curriculum.
How do you prepare children for school?
Our preschool programme focuses on literacy, numeracy, and social skills, with transition reports shared with Reception teachers to ensure smooth entry to school.
What qualifications do your staff hold?
Our team includes Early Years Teachers, qualified professionals with paediatric first aid training, and enhanced DBS clearance.
