Business Details
20 Years
experience
OFSTED Registered Childcare in Portslade
Established in 2006, Baby Ducks is a family-run OFSTED-registered playgroup dedicated to providing high-quality childcare and preschool education for children aged 1 to 5 years. Our philosophy centres on creating a nurturing, secure environment where children thrive through play-based learning, supported by experienced, qualified staff. We prioritise accessibility through competitive pricing and flexible hours, accommodating both funded entitlements and additional paid hours. Our commitment to excellence is evidenced by our QuILT Gold accreditation, the first achieved in Brighton and Hove, and consistent positive feedback from parents.We maintain strong partnerships with local schools to ensure smooth transitions to Reception class, while fostering independence and confidence in every child. Our team includes Early Years Professionals, paediatric first aid-trained practitioners, and dedicated key persons who build meaningful relationships with children and families. Regular updates via Tapestry learning journals and open communication channels ensure parents remain informed about their child's progress. With over 15 years' experience in the sector, we combine traditional values with innovative practices to deliver exceptional early years education.
Services
Childcare Services
Preschool Education
Funded Places
Flexible Hours
Snack Provision
Details
- Year established: 2006
Highlights and features
- Family-run business with 18+ years' experience in childcare
- OFSTED-registered setting with QuILT Gold accreditation
- Experienced team including Early Years Professionals
- Flexible hours accommodating funded entitlements and additional needs
- Proven track record of successful school transitions
Associations and certifications
- OFSTED
- QuILT Gold
What people say
Happy and safe
Excellent staff
Good progress
Smooth transition
Loved by children
Services
Childcare Services
Our OFSTED-registered childcare service provides a secure, stimulating environment for children aged 1-5 years. Qualified practitioners deliver play-based learning that supports physical, emotional, and cognitive development. We maintain low staff-to-child ratios to ensure individual attention, with dedicated key persons building strong relationships with families. Our approach combines structured activities with free play opportunities.
Preschool Education
We deliver curriculum-aligned preschool education focusing on school readiness through interactive play. Our Early Years Professionals design age-appropriate activities that develop literacy, numeracy, and social skills. Children engage in creative projects, outdoor exploration, and group learning sessions that foster independence and confidence for successful Reception class transitions.
Funded Places
We offer all government-funded childcare entitlements without additional fees or booking restrictions. Parents can access 15-30 hours weekly provision within our standard operating hours. Our team provides clear guidance on eligibility requirements and helps families maximise available funding while maintaining flexible attendance options.
Flexible Hours
Our adaptable booking system accommodates individual family needs with hourly rates starting from one hour weekly. We offer early drop-off options from 8:00am and variable term-time attendance patterns. Parents can adjust schedules with one month's notice, with no penalties for sickness-related absences.
Snack Provision
We provide healthy morning and afternoon snacks as part of our childcare package. Our menu includes fresh fruit, vegetables, and carbohydrate options that meet nutritional guidelines. Parents supply packed lunches while we ensure appropriate hydration with water and milk available throughout the day.
People
Gary Cambell-Smith
Owner
With childcare experience since 2006, Gary co-founded Baby Ducks following retail management roles. He oversees business operations while maintaining close connections with children and families through regular interactions.
Zo Cambell-Smith
Manager
An Early Years Professional since 2013, Zo leads our educational provision. With 20+ years' sector experience, she ensures curriculum excellence and staff development while maintaining hands-on involvement with children.
Leanne Downes
Childcare Practitioner
Leanne brings 15 years' local childcare expertise, having progressed from Deputy Manager role. Her specialisms include safeguarding and SEN support, with ongoing commitment to professional development through regular training updates.
Maryann Clifford
Deputy Manager
Maryann combines 16 years' Baby Ducks experience with practical knowledge gained through her childcare qualifications. She manages the Green Team while ensuring operational continuity through her comprehensive understanding of daily operations.
Lois Jordan
Childcare Practitioner
As Yellow Team key person, Lois applies her Level 2 childcare qualification and practical experience. A parent of current attendees, she brings personal insight to her professional responsibilities while maintaining safeguarding standards.
Questions
What funding options are available for childcare?
We accept all government-funded entitlements with no additional fees. Parents can access 15-30 hours weekly provision within our standard operating hours, with flexible booking options available.
How do you support children's transition to school?
Our curriculum aligns with Reception class requirements, with staff maintaining strong partnerships with local schools. We provide transition visits, learning journals for continuity, and develop key independence skills for confident school starts.
How do you communicate with parents?
We use Tapestry online learning journals for daily updates with photos and observations. Parents receive regular face-to-face updates, with immediate verbal communication at drop-off/pick-up times and formal meetings available upon request.
What happens during bad weather?
We remain open during normal term-time hours regardless of weather. Our outdoor space has sheltered areas while indoor activities ensure continuous engagement. We provide sun cream during hot weather and recommend parents supply appropriate clothing for changing conditions.
