Business Details
37 Years
experience
Trusted Child Care Services in Bedfordshire
BEST Nurseries, part of the Bedfordshire East Schools Trust (BEST), has been providing exceptional childcare and early years education since 1989. Our journey began at Samuel Whitbread Academy before transitioning to BEST in 2011, with nurseries now operating in Shefford, Arlesey, and Langford. We prioritise child-centred learning, combining qualified staff with a nurturing environment to support every child's development. Our commitment to quality is evidenced by outstanding Ofsted reports and reinvestment of surpluses into educational resources.We offer flexible term-time or all-year care, breakfast and after-school clubs, and adhere strictly to the Early Years Foundation Stage framework. Our team collaborates closely with parents and professionals to ensure seamless transitions between home, nursery, and school. With over three decades of experience, we focus on fostering curiosity, social skills, and independence in children aged 4 months to 12 years.
Services
Nursery Care
Breakfast Clubs
After School Clubs
Early Years Education
Holiday Clubs
SEND Support
Details
- Year established: 1989
Highlights and features
- We have over 35 years of experience in early years education
- Our nurseries are rated Outstanding by Ofsted
- We offer flexible term-time and all-year care options
- Our staff are highly qualified and dedicated
- We reinvest surpluses into children's education
What people say
Outstanding Ofsted reports
Flexible care options
Dedicated staff
Child-centred approach
Excellent facilities
Services
Nursery Care
Our nursery care services provide full-day childcare for children aged 4 months to 5 years, following the Early Years Foundation Stage framework. With qualified practitioners and a stimulating environment, we focus on developmental milestones through play-based learning. Parents benefit from flexible term-time or all-year provision across our three Bedfordshire locations.
After School Clubs
After school clubs offer supervised care for children up to 12 years, combining structured activities with free play. Operating at all three sites, these clubs provide homework support and recreational opportunities until 6:00 PM. The service complements our nursery provision while accommodating working families' schedules.
Early Years Education
Delivered by experienced educators, our early years education programme prepares children for school through curriculum-based play activities. The service includes individual learning plans, regular progress assessments, and parent consultation meetings. All staff hold relevant childcare qualifications and undergo enhanced DBS checks.
SEND Support
Special Educational Needs and Disability (SEND) support includes tailored care plans developed with specialist professionals. Our designated SEND coordinators work closely with parents and external agencies to implement individualised support strategies across all nursery locations.
Breakfast Clubs
Breakfast clubs provide morning childcare from 7:30 AM, including nutritious meals and pre-school preparation activities. This service operates at all three sites and caters to families requiring early drop-off times while maintaining continuity with our educational approach.
People
Dawn Davies
Nursery Manager
With over 20 years in early years education, Dawn leads our Shefford nursery team. She holds an NVQ Level 3 in Childcare and has implemented award-winning safeguarding practices. Dawn oversees daily operations and staff development.
Lisa-Marie Farran
Nursery Manager
Lisa-Marie manages the Arlesey nursery, bringing 15 years of leadership experience. She specialises in child protection and has developed innovative transition programmes for school readiness. Her team has achieved multiple Ofsted commendations.
Laura Calvert
Nursery Manager
As Langford nursery manager, Laura oversees SEND provision and staff training. With a degree in Early Childhood Studies, she has implemented successful inclusion initiatives and maintains strong partnerships with local schools.
Dr Alan Lee
CEO & Trustee
Dr Lee oversees strategic direction for BEST Nurseries as CEO and Ofsted Nominated Person. With a doctorate in Education Leadership, he has expanded nursery provision across Bedfordshire while maintaining financial sustainability.
Ilona Bond
Trustee
Ilona contributes governance expertise to BEST Nurseries, focusing on policy development and quality assurance. With 25 years in educational administration, she ensures compliance with regulatory standards across all nursery sites.
Questions
What age groups do you cater for?
We provide care for children aged 4 months to 12 years across our nurseries and wraparound services.
Do you accept government funding?
Yes, we accept 2+, 3+, and 4+ government funding including the Early Years Pupil Premium.
What are your Ofsted ratings?
All three nurseries hold 'Good' or 'Outstanding' Ofsted ratings following recent inspections.
How do you support special educational needs?
Our designated SEND coordinators create individualised support plans in collaboration with parents and specialists.
What qualifications do your staff hold?
All staff have relevant childcare qualifications with regular CPD updates and enhanced DBS checks.
Are meals provided?
We offer nutritious meals and snacks following dietary guidelines, with options for special dietary requirements.
