Business Details
Trusted Childcare Services in Chester
The Spinney Day Nursery is an independent, family-run childcare provider established over two decades ago. Our dedicated team of experienced professionals delivers high-quality care for children aged 0-11 years, operating from two purpose-built sites in Chester and Pulford. With staff holding qualifications ranging from NVQ Level 3 to Foundation Degrees in Early Years, we maintain OFSTED-registered standards while fostering a nurturing environment that mirrors family values.Our comprehensive services include nursery care, pre-school education, forest school sessions, and wraparound childcare through breakfast and after-school clubs. We prioritise individual child development through tailored key-person approaches and maintain strong parent partnerships to ensure continuity between home and nursery environments.
Services
Nursery Care
Pre-school Education
Forest School Sessions
Breakfast Club
After School Club
Holiday Club
Highlights and features
- Established family-run nursery with 20+ years of childcare experience
- OFSTED-registered nurseries with qualified staff across all age ranges
- Forest School sessions led by qualified outdoor education professionals
- Flexible wraparound care including breakfast and after-school clubs
- Proven track record of positive parental testimonials and referrals
What people say
Highest standards of care
Peace of mind for parents
Loving and safe environment
Professional and nurturing staff
Excellent forest school provision
Services
Nursery Care
Our nursery provision offers dedicated care for children aged 0-5 years across purpose-built facilities in Chester and Pulford. Each nursery features age-specific rooms with sensory areas, creative spaces, and outdoor play environments. Our qualified staff implement the Early Years Foundation Stage curriculum while maintaining a family-oriented approach to child development.
Forest School
Forest School sessions provide structured outdoor education led by qualified leaders in natural woodland settings. Children develop physical skills, environmental awareness, and confidence through activities like den-building, nature exploration, and seasonal crafts. Sessions follow the national curriculum within an outdoor context.
After School Club
Our after-school club offers supervised care for children aged 4-11 years until 6:30pm. The service includes transportation from local schools, homework support, and recreational activities. Parents benefit from flexible pick-up options at either of our two nursery locations in Chester.
Holiday Club
The school holiday club provides themed activities and educational outings for children aged 4-11 years during term breaks. Operating from 7:30am to 6:30pm, the club offers structured adventures including the popular Spinney Adventurers outdoor programme with bushcraft and environmental learning experiences.
Pre-school Education
Our pre-school rooms prepare children aged 3-5 years for formal education through play-based learning. Qualified early years professionals deliver curriculum-aligned activities focusing on literacy, numeracy, and social skills. The programme includes transition support to help children adapt to school environments.
People
Alison Thomson
Owner
With over 30 years' experience in education, Alison holds an Honours degree in Education and specialises in mainstream and special needs teaching. She established The Spinney Day Nursery with a vision for family-centred childcare.
Rhiannon Thomson
Managing Director
Rhiannon manages both nurseries and holds a CIM Diploma in Professional Marketing. A qualified Forest School Leader, she oversees marketing strategy and outdoor education programmes while supporting daily operations.
Louise Dugdale
Officer in Charge
With over a decade at The Spinney, Louise holds NVQ Level 4 qualifications in childcare and playwork. She manages the Bell Meadow nursery while maintaining paediatric first aid and food hygiene certifications.
Sarah Parry
Deputy Officer in Charge
Sarah has worked at The Spinney for over ten years, holding a Foundation Degree in Early Years and advanced safeguarding qualifications. She serves as Designated Safeguarding Lead at Bell Meadow nursery.
Emma
Officer in Charge
Emma manages the Hoole Village nursery with extensive experience in childcare management. Holding NVQ Level 4 qualifications and advanced paediatric first aid certification, she oversees daily operations and staff training.
Questions
What age groups do you cater for?
We provide childcare for children aged 0-11 years across our nursery, pre-school, and after-school services.
Are your staff qualified in childcare?
All our staff hold relevant childcare qualifications from NVQ Level 3 upwards, including specialist forest school and first aid certifications.
Is your nursery OFSTED registered?
Yes, both our Chester locations are OFSTED-registered and maintain high standards of childcare provision.
Do you offer flexible childcare options?
We provide flexible wraparound care through breakfast clubs starting at 7:30am and after-school clubs operating until 6:30pm.
What outdoor learning opportunities exist?
Our forest school sessions at both locations offer structured outdoor learning with qualified leaders in natural environments.
How do you support child development?
We implement the Early Years Foundation Stage framework with individual key-person approaches and regular parent consultations.
