Business Details
22 Years
experience
Childcare Experts in Haltwhistle Since 2004
Established in March 2004, Haltwhistle Little Star Nursery is a family-run registered charity providing childcare in Haltwhistle, the 'Centre of Britain'. With over 21 years of service, we have nurtured the development of more than 970 children through our purpose-built facility designed to meet the evolving needs of early years education. Our team of dedicated professionals, including Early Years Practitioners and qualified nursery assistants, is committed to delivering a safe, stimulating environment that prioritizes individualized learning and care. Recognized for our staff development, we achieved Investor in People status in April 2006, reflecting our dedication to maintaining high standards through ongoing training. Our nursery operates 49 weeks annually, offering flexible full-time and part-time placements aligned with local school terms, complemented by Tax-Free Childcare and funded session options.Every aspect of our provision, from the divided Little Sparkles area for newborns to the dynamic Twinkle Stars space for older children, is carefully curated to support growth through play, creativity, and exploration. We maintain transparent communication with families via the Famly app, providing real-time updates on meals, naps, and developmental milestones while fostering strong home-to-nursery partnerships. Our outdoor areas feature multi-weather surfaces, covered play zones, and imaginative spaces designed to extend learning beyond the classroom. As a non-profit organization (Charity No. 1100529), we continually seek community partnerships to enhance our services and ensure accessibility for all families.
Services
Early Years Education
Outdoor Play Areas
Individualized Care Plans
Flexible Session Options
Parent Communication App
Details
- Year established: 2004
Highlights and features
- 21+ years experience in early years education
- Team of Early Years Professionals with university degrees
- Investor in People certified for staff development
- Customized care through key person system
- Purpose-built outdoor learning environment
Associations and certifications
- Investor in People
Services
Little Sparkles
Tailored provision for infants aged 0-2 years in a secure, nurturing environment. Features include dedicated quiet zones for rest, sensory play areas with age-appropriate resources, and individualized feeding routines. Our specialist team ensures seamless transitions between home and nursery while tracking developmental milestones through the Famly app. This service supports fundamental skill development through carefully designed sensory experiences and caregiver interactions.
Twinkle Stars
Dynamic learning space for children aged 2-5 years focused on developing social and academic readiness. Includes creative zones, role-play areas, and construction stations that change weekly to maintain engagement. Facilitates group activities and independent exploration while preparing children for formal schooling. Staff implement individualized learning plans aligned with Early Years Foundation Stage requirements, documented through real-time digital observations.
Outdoor Play Areas
Multi-terrain play spaces supporting physical development and imaginative play. Features covered play zones for all-weather access, adventure areas with custom structures, and designated cycling paths. Safety matting and controlled environments enable risk-assessed exploration for all age groups. Outdoor curriculum extends indoor learning themes, incorporating nature observation and environmental awareness activities throughout the changing seasons.
People
Samantha Roberts
Nursery Manager
Co-founder with BA Honours in Early Years Practice and Early Years Professional Status. Instrumental in securing Lottery funding for purpose-built nursery infrastructure. Leads daily operations while maintaining pedagogical standards across all childcare provision.
Claire Roberts
Nursery Manager
Co-founder with specialist qualifications in early years education. Oversees staff training programs and curriculum development. Jointly responsible for strategic direction and maintaining Investor in People standards through continuous professional development initiatives.
Clare Slater
Nursery Practitioner
Qualified childcare practitioner with CACHE Level 3 qualification. Specializes in early years development and acts as fundraising coordinator for nursery projects. Provides dedicated support to the Little Sparkles age group one day weekly.
Alana Hogg
Nursery Assistant
Level 2 qualified childcare assistant supporting cross-age group activities. Key strengths in creative arts provision and sensory play facilitation. Contributes to maintaining consistent care standards across all nursery areas.
Denise Roberts
Company Secretary
Administrative lead managing financial operations and supplier relationships. Coordinates invoicing processes and maintains business records essential for charity compliance. Provides operational support across financial, HR and administrative functions.
Questions
What are your current OFSTED ratings?
We hold an 'Outstanding' rating from OFSTED. You can view our latest inspection report on our website or by contacting our office directly.
How do you support child transitions to school?
Our Twinkle Stars program follows Early Years Foundation Stage guidelines to prepare children for formal education. We collaborate with local schools and provide transition packs with developmental records.
What meals are provided during nursery sessions?
We offer healthy breakfast, homemade lunches, and afternoon tea. Fresh fruit snacks are available throughout the day. Parents supply baby-specific formula or food requirements.
How are parents kept informed about their child's progress?
We use the Famly app for real-time updates on meals, sleeps and developmental milestones. Regular parent-teacher meetings are held, and learning journals are maintained for each child.
