Business Details
19 Years
experience
Trusted Childcare Experts in Norwich
Established in 2007 by Julie and John Banbury, Once upon a time is a family-owned childcare provider operating three nursery schools in Norwich. Our settings, rated 'Outstanding' and 'Good' by Ofsted, prioritise child-led learning through play while maintaining rigorous safety standards, including the Millies Mark accreditation for paediatric first aid. With over 15 years of combined leadership experience, our team creates nurturing environments that foster independence, communication, and emotional development.We utilise the Tapestry platform to document children's progress and maintain transparent communication with parents. Our commitment to excellence is reflected in our investment in staff training, high-quality resources, and partnerships with local charities.
Services
Nursery care
Early years education
Childcare
Ofsted-registered programs
Outdoor learning
Details
- Year established: 2007
Highlights and features
- Family-owned with 18 years' experience in early years education
- Three Ofsted-rated 'Outstanding' and 'Good' nurseries
- Hold the prestigious Millies Mark safety accreditation
- Implement evidence-based Tapestry learning journals
- Maintain 100% paediatric first aid trained staff
Associations and certifications
- Ofsted
- Millies Mark
What people say
Outstanding Ofsted ratings
Dedicated staff
Safe environments
Effective communication
Engaging activities
Services
Nursery care
Our nursery care provides safe, stimulating environments for children aged 9 months to 5 years. With qualified staff ratios exceeding requirements, we offer structured play-based learning aligned with EYFS standards. Each child receives individual attention through our key person system while benefiting from purpose-designed facilities and outdoor spaces.
Early years education
Delivered through Ofsted-registered programs focusing on core developmental areas: communication, emotional intelligence, independence, and literacy. Our curriculum combines child-led exploration with targeted interventions, using Tapestry technology to track progress and maintain parent collaboration throughout the learning journey.
Outdoor learning
Children engage with natural environments across our three settings, including farm access at White House Farm. Daily outdoor sessions in all weather develop physical skills and environmental awareness. Secure gardens feature age-appropriate equipment, sensory gardens, and designated spaces for imaginative play and exploration.
Parental engagement
We maintain transparent communication through Tapestry journals, regular progress updates, and face-to-face meetings. Parents receive daily activity records and developmental insights. Our approach includes family events, home-connection activities, and collaborative planning to ensure continuity between nursery and home environments.
Special dietary provision
Nutritionist-approved menus provide three meals and two snacks daily, with options for allergies and cultural requirements. Our in-house cooks prepare fresh meals on-site while maintaining strict hygiene standards. Parents receive weekly menus and can opt-out with home-prepared alternatives following specific guidelines.
People
Julie Banbury
Director of Care and Education
BA (Hons) in Early Childhood Studies, founded Once upon a time in 2007 after managing Sprowston Nursery Playgroup for 10 years. Oversees educational standards across all settings while maintaining active involvement in community engagement and staff development.
John Banbury
Director of Finance and Marketing
Former Virgin Money marketing director with 25+ years' business leadership experience. Manages financial operations and strategic development while ensuring regulatory compliance. Previously held senior roles at TPF Group and Norvic Ambulance Services.
Georgia Brooks
Director of HR and Training
BSc (Hons) in Psychology and Early Years studies, joined the business in 2020. Brings retail management experience from M&S and Majestic Wine. Oversees staff training programs and HR policies while applying practical nursery experience gained through working in the baby room.
Becky Potter
Nursery Manager
BA (Hons) in Integrated Working with Children, leads the Wroxham Road setting since 2020. Previously managed a preschool for seven years. Specialises in creating stimulating learning environments and maintaining 'Outstanding' Ofsted standards through continuous quality improvement.
Alex Wells
Nursery Manager
Over 15 years' experience across all settings, now managing the White House Farm location. Holds Early Years Teacher Status from Essex Primary SCITT. Focuses on outdoor learning opportunities and maintaining strong safeguarding practices in the unique rural setting.
Questions
What age groups do you accept?
We care for children from 9 months to 5 years old across our three settings, with age-specific rooms and tailored developmental programs.
How do you support child development?
Our EYFS-compliant curriculum combines structured play with individualised learning plans, focusing on communication, emotional intelligence, independence, and literacy through the Tapestry tracking system.
Are meals provided?
Yes, we offer freshly prepared meals and snacks daily, including options for allergies and dietary requirements. Parents may opt-out with home-prepared alternatives following specific guidelines.
What safety measures are in place?
All staff maintain paediatric first aid certifications, and we hold the Millies Mark accreditation. Our premises feature secure outdoor spaces, monitored access systems, and regular safety drills.
How do you involve parents?
Through daily updates via Tapestry, regular progress meetings, and family events. Parents receive termly reports and can contribute directly to their child's learning journal.
What funding options are available?
We accept government childcare funding for eligible families, including 30 hours provision for working parents and Tax Free Childcare accounts with 20% government contributions.
