Welcome to Little Acorns

At Little Acorns Nursery, we provide a warm, nurturing environment where children feel safe, valued, and inspired to learn. Set in the heart of our village, we are a small, friendly nursery where every child is known as an individual.

We believe childhood should be full of curiosity, creativity, and joy. Through play, stories, and outdoor exploration, we help children grow in confidence and develop a lifelong love of learning.

 

Our Approach

 

Child-Led Learning

At Little Acorns, children are at the centre of everything we do. We follow their interests and ideas, allowing them to explore, discover, and learn in ways that are meaningful to them. Our experienced practitioners carefully support and extend each child’s learning through play.

 

A Love of Stories and Reading

Stories are at the heart of our nursery. We plan exciting topics based on much-loved children’s books, bringing stories to life through activities, role play, and creativity.

By surrounding children with books, language, and storytelling, we aim to inspire a lifelong love of reading.

 

Personal, Social & Emotional Development

We strongly believe that happy, secure children are the most successful learners.

At Little Acorns, we place a strong focus on building:

• Confidence and independence
• Positive relationships and friendships
• Emotional wellbeing
• Each child forms a close bond with their key person, helping them feel safe, understood, and ready to explore the world around them.

 

Outdoor Learning & Forest School

We love the outdoors and believe it plays a vital role in children’s development.

Our regular forest school sessions give children the opportunity to:

• Explore nature
• Take safe risks
• Build resilience and confidence
• Develop a sense of wonder about the world

Whether it’s muddy puddles, bug hunting, or den building, outdoor learning is a big part of life at Little Acorns.

 

Supporting School Transition

We are proud to be part of Coton in the Elms Church of England Primary School.

This allows us to support children as they prepare for the next stage of their journey by:

• Building familiarity with school routines
• Encouraging independence and confidence
• Supporting emotional readiness for school life

Our focus is on ensuring every child feels happy, secure, and ready for their transition to school.

 

A Day at Little Acorns

Every day is filled with opportunities to learn, play, and explore.

A typical day may include:

• Free play and child-led activities
• Story time and group sessions
• Creative and messy play
• Outdoor play and exploration
• Forest school experiences

We follow a flexible routine that meets the needs and interests of the children.

 

Meet Our Team

Our caring and experienced team are passionate about early years education.

We are dedicated to:

• Providing a safe and nurturing environment
• Supporting each child’s individual development
• Building strong relationships with families

 

Meet Emma…

Emma is a qualified Early years teacher and has been working with young children for over 11 years, she absolutely loves being part of their early learning journey. She studied Special Needs and Inclusion Studies at university and is passionate about making sure every child feels happy, included, and ready to shine.

As a mum of four, Emma understands just how special these early years are. She believes in creating magical moments of awe and wonder that children will remember for years to come.

When she’s not at nursery, Emma enjoys curling up with a good book, baking delicious treats for her family, and going on scenic walks to enjoy the outdoors.

 

Meet Carla…

Carla has over 10 years of experience in childcare, holding an Early Years Level 3 qualification along with First Aid and Safeguarding training. Carla is passionate about supporting children’s development, helping them grow in confidence, and preparing them for their next steps at school. She takes pride in creating a safe, nurturing environment and building strong relationships with children and families. Outside of work, Carla enjoys spending time with my family and keeping an organised home.

 

Meet Kiera…

Kiera has spent over 10 years working with children and has thoroughly enjoyed every moment. With a degree in Drama and Education and years of experience teaching, Kiera brings creativity, imagination, and energy into everyday learning. Each day brings new opportunities for discovery, laughter, and seeing children’s personalities shine. Kiera is passionate about the early years and enjoys helping children explore, take risks, and most importantly build confidence. Kiera is currently working towards her Early Years Teacher Status, further developing her skills to create a nurturing, inspiring environment where every child can sparkle.

In her spare time, Kiera is busy looking after her four-legged, feathered, finned… and human companions, keeping life full of fun and laughter! 

 

Practical Information

Age range: 2-4 years

Opening hours: 9am-3pm (term time only)

Fees & funded places: £20.00 half day £40.00 full day. 15-30 hours government funding available (based on eligibility.)

To see if you’re eligible for funding, please visit:

Help paying for childcare – Derbyshire County Council AND

 30 hours of funded childcare for working parents – Derbyshire County Council

Lunch/snack: full day children are required to bring a packed lunch from home. Snack is an additional charge of 50p- half day session £1.00-full day session.

For more information or to discuss your child’s needs, please get in touch.

 

Safeguarding & Wellbeing

The safety and wellbeing of every child is our highest priority.

We follow strict safeguarding procedures and create an environment where children feel safe, supported, and cared for at all times.