nursery guide edinburgh

Edinburgh & The LothiansNURSERY GUIDEYOUR INDISPENSABLE GUIDE TO THE BEST DAY NURSERIES 2015 ANNUAL ISSUE

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3CONTENTS

Edinburgh & The LothiansSCHOOL GUIDE2015ANNUAL ISSUE

19 Independent Schools • 245 State Schools

WHAT LEAGUE TABLES

DON’T TELL YOU

ENTRANCE EXAMS

WHAT TO EXPECT

INDEPENDENT SCHOOLSCAN I AFFORD IT?

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K 2015 ANN

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YOUR INDISPENSABLE GUIDE TO EDINBURGH’S BEST INDEPENDENT & STATE SCHOOLS IN ASSOCIATION WITH

Features4 In the News

6 Returning to Work?

8 Nursery V Childminder

11 Nursery Profiles

43 How to Find a Good Nursery

46 Nursery Inspections

Family Favourites - 18 PAGE SUPPLEMENT27 Moving Home

28 Painting a Child’s Room

31 Best Sellers

33 Party Ideas

35 Health

37 Clubs & Classes

40 Photography

Private Nurseries LISTINGS

47 Daycare Nursery Guide Map

48 Daycare Nursery Listings

62 Independent School Nurseries

Dear ReaderWelcome to the new free

edition of the Nursery Guide, Edinburgh.

This year as an added bonus you will find the ‘Family Favourites Supplement’ in the

centre of this guide.We have updated the

list of nurseries for this 2015 edition and included

our regular features. We hope you find the “How to Find a Good Nursery” article on pages 43 -45 useful, as well as our guide to interpreting “Care Inspectorate” reports on page 46.

FREE copies of the guide have been distributed to carefully selected cafes, soft plays, libraries, church halls, medical centres and other family friendly sites across Edinburgh. If you know a venue that would be happy to distribute copies for us please do get in touch and we will gladly pop in with a bundle.

This Nursery Guide is available to purchase online if you would like it posted to you.

Online you can also purchase copies of The School Guide, which is still on sale in Edinburgh stores such as Waterstones and Waitrose.Best wishes

EditorNikki Miller

DesignMarie Irvinewww.mamidesigns.co.uk

Cover PhotographyRachael Lynchwww.beautifulbairns.com

ContributorsAlison Herbert of Scottish Council of Independent Schools

PublisherSelect Publishing Ltd

To advertise in or stock this annual magazine Please contact: Nikki Miller Tel : 07908 [email protected]

Magazine StockistsYou will find this magazine FREE in Cafes, Church Halls, Libraries, Soft Play Centres, Health Centres, and other family friendly outlets in and around Edinburgh.

Or available to purchase online. www.nurseryguideedinburgh.co.uk

Socialise with us at :F: facebook.com/NurseryGuide T: twitter.com/nurseryguideedi W: nurseryguideedinburgh.co.uk

Edinburgh & The LothiansNURSERY GUIDE

Contents

Nikki Miller, Editor

All rights reserved.Reproduction of this guide in whole or part is strictly prohibited without prior permission. The views expressed in this magazine are not necessarily those of Select Publishing Ltd and while every effort is made to ensure that all the information is correct at the time of going to press, revisions may subsequently occur.


4 in the NEWS

NEW Childcare EntitlementThe number of hours of free early learning and childcare for children aged three and four increased from 12.5 to almost 16 hours a week at the start of August 2014. For the first time some two year olds also receive this free entitlement, if they have a parent or carer who receives certain benefits. www.scottish families.gov.uk

You might know Edinburgh for Under Fives, the popular guidebook for parents and carers, as somewhere to get ideas for outings for you and your little ones.

But it’s also the perfect place to find useful information on toddler groups, playgroups and educational activities for under 5s. For our latest edition we’ve created a handy online version, which you can access when you buy the book or as a years or a months online-only subscription. Get Edinburgh for Under Fives for just £9.95 at bookshops and gift shops in Edinburgh, or online where you can also buy our online-only version.

PLAYGROUPS FOR DADSDads Rock is Scotland’s network of free playgroups for dads, male carers and children. Started in 2012 by two local dads, the groups are fun, positive and rocking places.

The playgroups are based in north and south Edinburgh and run every Saturday from 10am -11.30am. They are open to dads, granddads, male carers and their children aged 0-5 years old.

www.dadsrock.org.uk

REVIEWED Playgroups

Heriot Hill Nursery have been putting the Creative Scotland funding to very good use by involving the children in a number of musical experiences. The Nurseries main aim has been to celebrate Scottish music and the positive impact music can have on everyone involved, mainly linked to wellbeing, health and happiness. Heriot Hill say, “We firmly believe that children’s exposure to music isn’t a ‘nice to have’, it’s a ‘must have’.”

The children have been exposed to a range of musical concepts including a variety of instruments, genre of music, pace, rhythm, dance and rhyme.

The music sessions have also supported social development by fostering social interaction, participation and co-operation. Children have learnt about turn taking, responsibility and independence.

This project has also linked with the work that the nursery currently undertakes with both the Pre-Birth to Three Curriculum and the Curriculum for Excellence Documents.

Funded Music Project

www.heriothillnursery.com

Newsin the

www.efuf.co.uk


5in the NEWS

Due to high demand The Edinburgh Nursery in Beaverhall Road has expanded and now has additional space for 2 year olds in their newly converted and purpose built Nursery. The Edinburgh Nursery is unique in having four settings in the Broughton area, each setting dedicated to specific age groups. Broughton Street and East London Street are dedicated to babies, with special features such as the sensory and sleep rooms. The Beaverhall Road nurseries are designed with an active, creative and educational environment for growing minds. Broughton Road’s multi-roomed layout is designed for each child to receive a lot of individual attention and assistance in preparing for “Big School”.

EXAMPLE OF Good Practice

Nursery Expands

Bonnington House Nursery has been featured in the governments inspection agencies quarterly ‘Care Magazine’ as an example of good practice. They were particularly impressed with how the Nursery had involved the children in developing their garden, by deciding what was to go in it, to actually helping create everything from the pond to the fences.

The nursery, in the Trinity area of Edinburgh, opened just two and half years ago, but has already a two-year waiting list and it was recently awarded sixes across the board in the recent Care Inspectorate inspection. The nursery hopes to be able to expand this year and increase its capacity for more 3 - 5 year olds.

Joanne Shaw, Inspector (EarlyYears), said, “The nursery really goes the extra mile to give the children amazing opportunities. The activities gave them a lot of independence, as well as developing physical and cognitive skills. The nursery achieved all sixes in its inspection not just for its outcomes for children, but good practice throughout.”

PARENTS ARE RETURNING TO WORKFiona Anderson – independent Interview Skills Consultant - reports 2014 was her busiest year yet for enquiries from parents returning to work after a career break. Fiona is an independent certified recruitment professional with nearly 20 years experience. She noticed more parents returning to work last year were particularly looking for advice on how to increase confidence. As a mum, Fiona understands the dip in confidence which parents often experience when job hunting, and her one-to-one interview coaching sessions include tips on how to prepare for interviews, build confidence and deal with difficult questions. Fiona says, “the recruitment processes can be very competitive and may include a variety of interviews, presentations, occupational testing, and assessment centres, but practising their interview technique with me before a real interview can help boost confidence.”

www.anderson.gb.com

www.edinburghnursery.com

www.careinspectorate.com and www.bonningtonhousenursery.co.uk


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LOOK AT YOUR FINANCESIt may be that your salary will barely cover the cost of childcare, but consider if in your profession it may not be advisable to take too long a career break. Even if your job is not providing you with much extra income after childcare costs it may be advisable to keep your foot in the door that could close if you take a career break.

From April 2015, shared parental leave will be introduced, mums and dads will be able to choose to share the 52-week maternity leave between them. This will offer parents more flexibility in balancing work and family life.

There are family tax credits and benefits you may be able to claim, also single parents may be able to get help with the cost of childcare by applying for tax credits. See gov.uk for details.

ASK YOUR EMPLOYER ABOUT FLEXIBLE WORKING HOURSFrom April 2014, anyone who has worked for their employer for 26 weeks or more has the right to ask if they can work flexibly. Talk to your employer before you go on maternity leave. Flexible working hours are becoming more widespread because of the benefits that they offer to employers as well as employees.

LOOK AT CHILDCARE THAT SUITS YOUR CHILD AND WORKING HOURSThere are range of childcare options in Edinburgh to choose from. All have different hours of operation, so you should be able to find one that suits you:

• Day nurseries, offer care and education for children from 0 - 5yrs. Most offer full or part-time places open from 8am to 6pm (occasionally 7am – 7pm) week days, throughout the year, except Christmas. A typical full day private nursery place for a child under two is about £40 per day. Most nursery fees are reduced if you take a full week and once your child is 3yrs +. If your chosen nursery is delivering pre-school education in partnership with the local authority then your child is eligible for 16 hours free care per week, when they reach the age of three.

• Childminders, are professional child carers who offer a childcare service in their own home. They can look after up to six children under 8 , including up to three children under 5 and one under 12 months. They must, by law, be registered with the Care Inspectorate. Most work on an hourly rate, minimum 2 hours per day up to as many hours as you both agree. Childminders work

It’s really what’s best for you and your family. If you can afford to stay home and that is where you

would rather be then it’s an easy choice to stay at home to look after your child. But if you feel that

working fulfils you therefore it makes you a better parent or financially you need to work then you may need to think carefully about your options.

Should I go

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year round and agree holidays. Charges vary but the average charges are around £6 - £8 per hour depending on the services included. Many childminders will offer a discount for a second child from the same family. Policies regarding sick pay and holiday pay should be agreed on an individual basis.

• Nannies, who may care for your child any day of the week and are flexible with their working hours. You can have a live-in nanny or a day nanny who comes to care for your child when you need them. In Scotland, a full-time live-out nanny working a 50-hour week earns between £400 and £600 net (after tax) per week. Live-in nannies usually work slightly longer hours (approximately 60 hours) and earn between £300 and £600 net per week. Part-time nannies usually earn more per hour than full-time nannies, for example between £10 and £14 net per hour. As the Nannies employer you are responsible for paying their tax, national insurance and pension. (www.nannytax.co.uk)

• An au pair, who will live in your home and care for your child for between 25 hours and 30 hours per week. An au pair is a single person aged between 17 and 27 who has come to the United Kingdom to study English. An au pair can live in the UK for up to two years as a member of an English-speaking family. An au pair is ideal help around the home, he or she is not a trained childminder or nanny therefore not recommended as a sole carer of a pre-school child.

• A relative, who may be flexible enough and happy to look after your child whenever you need them to. This is

a great option if you are lucky enough to have a relative able to take on this commitment.

It’s a good idea to see different people and places before making a decision. This will give you an idea about types of childcare available, and the variety in quality and cost. Many types of childcare are regulated by the Social Care and Social Work Improvement Scotland (SCSWIS). It inspects all daycare providers, including day nurseries, crèches, after-school clubs, playgroups, childminders, nanny agencies and sitter services. Its website publishes its inspection reports and registration details of providers www.careinspectorate.com

YOU COULD CHOOSE TO WORK FROM HOME ON FREELANCE PROJECTS OR CONTRACT WORKWhile you’re away from work, keep up with news and developments in your line of work. You can follow business news on social media, keep in touch with colleagues, and find time to keep up with national news. Go along to networking events that appeal to you when you have the time.

You could also study at home online to keep your skills up to date, attend industry events and seminars. If there are professional associations that relate to your job, make sure you renew your membership.

Parents find time to work whilst their baby naps and after bedtime. Free time to work from home becomes easier as your child gets older. When your child is two years and six months local playgroups offer a couple of hours of care. Some playgroups run daily sessions, others once or twice a week. At the age of three your child can attend a nursery school for up to three hours a day either mornings or afternoons Monday to Friday.

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BENEFITS OF CHOOSING A DAYCARE NURSERYDay nurseries provide a structure of learning and care for children from birth to five years old. Your child will have a chance to play and learn in a group, interact with several adults and one-to-one with a member of staff. Your child will also benefit from playing with other children, this can help to gain confidence and develop social skills. A nursery place can be seen as a stable and reliable form of childcare, because the nursery will be open regardless of whether one carer is ill or late.

DISADVANTAGES OF A DAYCARE NURSERYAlthough there will be a discount for siblings nursery fees can add up if you have two or more children at full-time nursery. Some nurseries require your child to take a full

day when you are only want a morning or afternoon session or 3 morning sessions and you want just two mornings a week. You will normally need to book specific days and times which does not work for parents working shifts that change from week or even month to month.

FINDING THE RIGHT NURSERY FOR YOU AND YOUR CHILDNurseries can vary from setting to setting, their capacity may be for less than 20 children to those with over 100. See our ‘Daycare Nursery Listings’ which states the capacity within each nursery on pages 47 - 62 and see pages 43 - 45 for “How to Find a Good Nursery”. The questions in our check list on these pages are only a guide line for you to consider which aspects of care are important to you and your families needs.

FOR MANY PARENTS THE TWO MAIN OPTIONS OF CHILDCARE, IF YOU HAVEN’T A RELATIVE WHO CAN STEP IN, IS EITHER A DAYCARE NURSERY OR REGISTERED CHILDMINDER. HERE ARE SOME OF THE MAIN DIFFERENCES TO CONSIDER WHEN LOOKING AT BOTH OPTIONS

Nursery versus

7 nurseries located in the city of Edinburgh, Bruntsfield, Cramond and Livingston areaWeb: www.brighthorizons.co.ukTel: 0800 085 4074Email: [email protected]

Bright HorizonsNurseries and PreschoolsWe have been giving young children boundless opportunities to learn through imagination, creativity and play, while offering parents the peace of mind that comes from knowing their children couldn’t be better cared for, in an environment in which they can learn, enjoy themselves and flourish.

Find out more about our naturally inspiring and exceptional care and education.

Call us now to arrange you visit.

*Terms and Conditions apply. Please quote ‘Nursery Guide Edinburgh’

Creativity

Science

Outdoors

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ent

Spanish

Music

Drama

Greenhill Montessori Nursery

3 Greenhill Park, Morningside, Edinburgh EH10 4DW

Tel: 01316290787info@greenhillmontessori.co.ukwww.greenhillmontessori.co.uk

Let your child’s adventure begin!

Our ValuesHere at Greenhill Montessori Nursery we are committed to providing a safe, loving and nurturing environment for each child who joins us. We engage your child socially, emotionally and educationally to ensure their success in the future. Their happiness, security and self confidence are our main goals.

Children from 18 months to Primary Age Hours from 9.00 to 16.00 (Care 8.15 to 17.30) Billingual, with Native speaking teachers in both English and Spanish Online progress tracking system for each child We accept Childcare Vouchers In Partnership with Edinburgh Council Follows the Curriculum for Excellence

CHILDMINDER


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Our Service Include: Nannies Nursery Staff Babysitters

Maternity : Night/Day Care, Sleep Consultancy Postnatal Depression Support

[email protected] www.butterflypersonnel.co.uk

Care Inspectorate registered

BENEFITS OF CHOOSING REGISTERED CHILDMINDING Registered childminders offer a flexibility of service that is difficult to find in other provision. Because they look after only small groups of children their daily routine is very adaptable. Individual dietary requirements, sleeping patterns or homework projects can be catered for with ease. Their flexibility of opening hours offers parents a service that meets individual needs.

A registered childminder can look after up to six children up to the age of eight. Of these, a maximum of three can be under fives, and a single childminder can only have one child under one year old. This ratio includes the childminder’s own children if they are under age eight.

This can be an ideal option for parents working shifts and with more than one child. Childminders will often be able drop off and pick up older children from primary school, and take your pre-schoolers and babies to toddler groups.

DISADVANTAGES OF A CHILDMINDERChildminders are a single adult interacting and influencing your child unlike a nursery setting where your child will be interacting with several adults. If your childminder is sick this could impact on you having to take time off work. Your child may be spending a lot of time with just few or no other children their age.

FINDING THE RIGHT CHILDMINDER Don’t forget you are the expert on your child and should trust your feelings. It can be a good idea to take your child with you to see how they get on with the childminder. It can also be a good idea to go when children are there so you can see if they appear settled, happy and busy. ■

Here are some suggested questions to ask when you visit:

1. How long have you been working with children?

2. Have you undertaken any training for your job? Any qualifications?

3. Why do you enjoy working with children?

4. Can I look around to see the rooms and outside play space? If there is no outside play space, how will you make sure my child gets the chance to play outside?

5. Where will my child rest?

6. What kind of food and drink will you give?

7. What will my child do all day? How do you structure the day?

8. How do you encourage good behaviour?

9. Will my child be with a regular group of children? How old are they? How will their timetable fit in with my child?

10. How will you make sure I know how my child is getting on?

11. What happens if my child is unwell?

Also ask to see your childminder’s registration and public liability insurance certificates. www.childminding.org

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10 nursery PROFILES

Child care for under 5’sIn partnership with City of Edinburgh Council –

pre-school funding of up to £2,100 available, dependent on sessions.

[email protected]

38 Craiglockhart Avenue,EdinburghEH14 1LT

0131 444 0880

226 Braid Road,EdinburghEH10 6NZ

0131 445 2227

Paties Road Pavilion,66 Katesmill Road,

Edinburgh EH14 1JF

0131 441 3804

Open Monday - Friday 8am-6pm

TEAMDEVELOPMENT

NEW Eco PreschoolClassroom openingin 2015


11nursery PROFILES

Blossom Tree Children’s Nursery, have two handy locations - Gilmerton (Edinburgh) and Dedridge (Livingston).

Both Nurseries are small, happy and educational, and supports the learning and development of only 30 and 31 children. Blossom Tree provides three carefully created and age appropriate rooms for the children to play, learn and develop. This ensures that each child not only gets social group time with friends, but also the individual care and attention that they deserve in their early years. Our boys and girls also enjoy lots of outings, garden play (including gardening and in the Mud Kitchens!) and weekly curricular classes.

Due to popular demand for spaces and in order to enhance their “excellent rated” provision, Bonnington House Nursery is delighted to announce their plans for a brand new Eco Classroom for Preschool, opening adjacent to their current nursery. We are already taking names onto a waiting list for spaces in our architecturally designed ” log cabin” classroom that aims to make the best of our wonderful outdoor setting. The large open plan classroom space with areas for learning and large glass doors will open directly onto additional outdoor classroom space and the Forest School. Our qualified Primary School Teacher will lead this new preschool. Richard is also a Forest School Leader and the children will benefit from weekly Forest School sessions, as well as classes in French, German, Music and PE.

BLOSSOM TREE CHILDREN’S NURSERY – Edinburgh and Livingston!

Bonnington House NurseryNEW ECO CLASSROOM - COMING SOON

Since 1989, the Cranley Nursery Group has built a reputation for excellence by following one key principle – to provide a safe, fun and stimulating environment for children to develop. The group has three nurseries at Colinton, Craiglockhart and Buckstone, has been awarded UK Nursery Chain of the Year by Nursery World. This was followed up in 2013 with the Nursery World UK Team Development award. At each nursery, children reap the benefits of interactive learning, provided by motivated, caring staff, within a ‘home-from-home’ setting. Parents are encouraged to play an integral role and receive thorough feedback on their child’s development, using modern technology in which parents can view their child’s learning experiences online at the touch of a button. We are very proud of our inspection reports, and all of our nurseries have attained Green Flag status from Eco Schools. We have an allotment and orchard at Cranley Colinton with access shared by all of our nurseries, providing a great way for children to experience nature and take part in structured learning about health and wellbeing. Our minibus lets us plan

daytrips to all kinds of interesting places in the community. By continually enhancing our facilities and activities, we aim to give children the best possible start in life – and fill every day with fun, play and learning.

For more information on a place for your little one, email [email protected] or visit www.blossomtree.org.uk

For more information or to arrange a viewing: tel: O131 445 2227 visit www.cranleynursery.co.uk or email [email protected]

Cranley Nursery GroupAWARD WINNING NURSERY

Contact:Bonnington House Nursery0131 555 4140www.bonningtonhousenursery.co.uk


12 nursery PROFILES

New for 2014 expanded Nursery places for 2 year olds in our newly converted and purpose built Nursery.

Everyone wants the best start for their children and at Heriot Hill we believe that the first five years play a pivotal part in a child’s life. We offer our children an environment where they are able to experience opportunities and challenges as well as develop their curiosity and understanding.

Our under threes rooms offer care and respect for individual children’s routines and needs in line with the Pre-Birth to Three Curriculum. Each day a full spectrum of learning activities are presented which promote open ended opportunities for play. Outside play is an important ethos of the nursery and we are lucky enough to have the space and resources for our children to experience a variety of opportunities that enable them to be adventurous as well as challenge them physically. Our allotment and pond areas are also very popular with the children.

We want children to learn to respect

and care for the environment and appreciate the wonder and joy of it.

Our pre-school rooms are spacious and offer a rich range of experiences that allow children to develop their independence and confidence. Through work with the Curriculum for Excellence we support each child and encourage their learning and understanding.

We have had a central focus recently in the nursery on music. The children have been involved in various projects, they have been visited by professional musicians and we have held some excellent staff training with the view that the legacy of this will continue for many years. We firmly believe that children’s exposure to music isn’t a ‘nice to have’, it’s a ‘must have’.

We have also been undertaking some refurbishment work throughout the nursery and if you haven’t visited us recently then we recommend that you do.

Heriot Hill Nursery, 32/34 Heriot Hill Terrace,Edinburgh, EH7 4DY, www.heriothillnursery.comEmail: joyce@heriothillnurseryTel: 0131 557 9907

If you would like to come and meet us, then please contact us on 01315575675 or via email: [email protected] Now taking bookings for LATE 2015

A SOUND START AT Heriot Hill Nursery

The experience of our staff and length of service with the company is something that we are proud of and we are confident that as a parent you will value.

I AM A BABY: - I am also a little person waiting to blossom

I AM 1:- I am also curious, observant, energetic & determinedWe have 3 Baby Nurseries: - 71a Broughton Street EH1 3RJ, 13 East London Street EH7 4BN and new for 2014 3 Beaverhall Road EH7 4JQ

I AM 2: - Do not underestimate me, I know who I amWe are based at 3 Beaverhall Road, EH7 4JQ and have access to a purpose built outdoor playroom as well as garden

I AM 3: - Let me play (trust me I am learning)We are located at 4 Beaverhall Road, EH7 4JQ and have an outdoor classroom and access to an all-weather outdoor garden

I AM 4: - Challenge me! I have more questions that you have answersWe are based at 127 Broughton Road EH7 4JH with an all-weather outdoor garden and access to our purpose built outdoor classroom

THE Edinburgh NURSERY


13Scottish Council of INDEPENDENT SCHOOLS

0131 556 2316 [email protected] www.scis.org.uk

Thinking about an independent school?Scotland’s independent schools are as diverse as the children who attend and o�er a wide range of opportunities in vibrant learning environments.

For information and advice on applyingand meeting the cost, speak to The Scottish Council of Independent Schools

Registered Scottish Charity SCO18033

Choice | Diversity | Excellence

Most schools’ websites and admissions materials will offer a guide to their financial assistance process.

Admissions Parents are advised to make enquiries early – preferably a year in advance – although schools will be as accommodating as possible.

Independent schools in Scotland offer you the choice of small and large day schools, boarding schools, co-educational, and single-sex schools. As a group independent schools draw students from all sections of the community and students who attend independent schools are as diverse as the schools themselves.

It is never too early to think about your child’s education and an independent school nursery will give your child a great start in life. Over half the independent schools in Scotland have a nursery and while some cater for children in their pre-school year only, others admit children at age 3, 2 or earlier.

Fully qualified teachers and experienced early years staff will ease your child through the transition from home to nursery and from pre-school to school.

No two independent school nurseries are the same and with each school offering something different; visit as many as you can before deciding which one is right for you.

Independent Education – can we afford it?You understand the value of an independent school education, but you’re wondering whether or not you can afford it. Families use a variety of methods to pay for an independent school education. Some pay for tuition in one lump sum. Others spread tuition over multiple months by direct debit. Some grandparents or other family members may also contribute to tuition.

Schools are sensitive, particularly in the current economic climate, to the sacrifices that many parents make in order to afford school fees, and all schools provide some level of fee assistance to enable children from lower income households, who otherwise would not have the opportunity of an independent education, to benefit, and schools welcome applications for fee assistance.

“The total amount of Financial Assistance provided by independent schools in Scotland has been rising steadily in recent years and in 2014 reached over £40 million.”

Is nursery funding available?Yes, just like private nurseries, most independent schools with nurseries have partnership funding arrangements with the relevant local authority. Many nurseries also accept childcare vouchers to help with the costs, but check with the individual schools’ finance departments.

Information, advice and guidance about choosing an independent school in Scotland are available from the Scottish Council of Independent Schools (SCIS). Web: www.scis.org.uk Tel: 0131 556 2316 Email: [email protected]

Choice, Diversity, Excellence


14 nursery PROFILES

A wonderful all round education in the Cramond/Barnton area of Edinburgh

A friendly family Prep school for boys and girls, from 3-13 years

Experienced and highly qualified teaching staff

Specialist teaching in French, Music and Sport

Modern and spacious, purpose built accommodation

Full access to the school’s grounds, gardens and facilities

Morning bus service from City Centre and Fife

Home cooked food

Extra-curricular programme

10 hour a day wrap around care

Members of the city of Edinburgh Nursery Partnership Programme

Visit www.cargilfield.com for more information or email [email protected]

45 Gamekeeper’s Road, Edinburgh, EH4 6HU Tel: 0131 336 2207Cargilfield School is an educational charity – Charity Number: CR33843

Cargilfield Nursery understands that the best way for our children to learn is through individualised, purposeful play-based activities, which allows them to investigate and question the world around them whilst also laying a secure foundation for future learning. The Nursery environment at Cargilfield and the extensive range of experiences the children have, help to nurture all aspects of their development and encourages them to become enthusiastic, confident, happy individuals with a love of learning.

Our modern nursery is purpose built and children have constant access to our extensive grounds and all the main school facilities. Everyone has the opportunity to experience specialist teaching in French and Music and, with our extra-curricular programme, to be involved in a range of sporting and creative activities. Educational visits and workshops also play a major role in supporting learning in the Nursery. In addition, Cargilfield also provides high quality after school care for our nursery children which allows them opportunities to mix with the rest of the school community.

By attending Cargilfield Nursery, boys and girls are prepared for life in the Pre-Prep and Prep School which offer children a broad education with an emphasis on sport,

music, drama and outdoor pursuits. Cargilfield also offers a flexible approach to boarding further up the school. At 13 children move on to some of the top schools in Scotland and the UK with many achieving Scholarships.

Cargilfield SchoolCARGILFIELD NURSERY

Visit www.cargilfield.com for more information or email: [email protected] Gamekeeper’s Road, Edinburgh, EH4 6HU Tel: 0131 336 2207

Clifton Hall Nursery School provides preschool education and care for 40 children, 3-5 years in age. The Nursery is situated in its own recently refurbished building within a large garden surrounded by the school’s 52 acres of grounds. Children attend 5 mornings a week, 8.15-12.00 with the option of staying for lunch (to 13.00) and the afternoon (to 15.00) and the School’s After School Club (15.00-17.30). The Nursery is in partnership with Edinburgh City allowing all parents, regardless of home location, to claim for the government’s pre-school funding.

The Nursery week includes opportunities for all children to participate in dance, drama and music activities, PE (led by the school’s PE department) and for the children to develop their literacy and numeracy skills and experience the remaining areas of the Curriculum for Excellence (Early Level) through their own interests and teacher led activities, inside and outdoors. In addition pre-school children take part in French (led by the school’s modern language department) and are offered the opportunity to swim. The

Nursery has a wide range of quality resources inside and in their extensive outdoor area, providing

the children with a stimulating learning environment.Through ensuring children experience a secure and

stimulating environment, the Nursery nurtures and extends children’s ability to be successful learners, confident individuals, responsible citizens and effective contributors.

Clifton Hall School Nursery for children aged 3-5 years oldACTIVE BEGINNINGS

Newbridge, Edinburgh EH28 8LQ • Tel: 0131 333 1359 • [email protected] • www.cliftonhall.org.uk

Take advantage of the Pre-School PartnershipGrant of £2,100 per year, currently availabletowards Nursery Fees


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Clifton Hall NurseryA SECURE AND STIMULATING ENVIRONMENT

Clifton Hall School, Newbridge, Edinburgh EH28 8LQ Tel: 0131 333 1359 www.cliftonhall.org.uk [email protected]

The Nursery nurtures and extends children’s ability to be

successful learners

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16 nursery PROFILES

The Compass School remains East Lothian’s only independent primary school providing quality education for boys and girls from pre-school to Primary Seven.

Children attending the School enjoy its friendly and caring environment in which they can feel secure and happy and in which they are encouraged to succeed, developing confidence, skills and ability. Its small class sizes allow each child to enjoy a very high level of individual attention.

The School was recently awarded ‘Excellent’ in every aspect of its provision by the Care Inspectorate, reflecting the quality and high standards of care and nurturing its children enjoy, particularly in the nursery/pre-school year.

The Compass also enjoys an excellent environment for learning with modern and well-resourced facilities and a very attractive outdoor area for learning and play.

Children in the pre-school year enjoy a very rich curricular experience, building firm foundations in literacy, numeracy and communication skills. They also have twice-weekly lessons with specialist staff in French, Music, swimming and judo.

Mr Mark Becher, the Headmaster, believes that, “The first days of a child’s time at school are some of the most special in their lives and at The Compass we aim to ensure that children settle quickly and thrive each day they come to school. We offer a busy and exciting day for each of our children and it is great to see them coming into school so eagerly each morning, ready to learn and play.”

The Compass School – Nursery

For further details or to arrange a visit, please contact the School, on 01620 822642 or by email: [email protected]

To find out more call : 01620 822642 Email: [email protected]

www.thecompassschool.co.uk Registered as a charity in Scotland SC020370

Where Children Flourish!

Scan to view our film


17nursery PROFILES

The Edinburgh Academy Junior School and Nursery is a coeducational establishment for 2- to 11-year-olds based in north Edinburgh, next to the renowned Royal Botanic Gardens.

Along with our Senior School founded in 1824, this is a school with a proud history and a clear sense of vision for the future. Set in wonderful grounds, our strength lies in the personalised teaching made possible by our class sizes. We recognise that each child is an individual and we are equipped to tailor our teaching to suit each girl and boy within the Academy family. The School strives to create an environment in which the children feel emotionally secure; are naturally inquisitive and always strive for excellence both in and out of the classroom. Our pupils enjoy a full programme of co-curricular activities and have the opportunity to develop

a wide range of interests in sport, music, drama and the creative arts.

The purpose built Nursery provides a bright, functional and fun environment for children aged 2-5 years, on both a part and full time basis. The Nursery combines indoor classroom time with the opportunity to explore the outdoors in our play areas, sensory gardens, Nursery allotments and Forest School outdoor classroom.

We offer flexible care between 8am and 6pm for children aged 3 to 11 years through our Early Birds and After School Clubs and, outwith term time, our Holiday Clubs run offering a safe caring environment for children with lots of fun activities.

We would be delighted to welcome you and your family to the Academy, either to Open Day or for an individual visit.

The Edinburgh Academy

The Edinburgh Academy is a registered charity, no SC 016999Nursery & Junior School

Small enough to careBig enough to matterTo find out more please visit our website: www.edinburghacademy.org.ukFee assistance can be made available. Terms and conditions apply.

Please contact Admissions on 0131 624 4987 or admissions@edinburgh academy.org.uk for more information.


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In our nursery we are passionate about our personalised and progressive educational approach. Our environment is an ideal learning sanctuary with the benefits of both city and countryside on our doorstep.

Providing educational care, our teachers support each phase of development by recognising when a child has mastered his/her surroundings and is ready for new challenges. Children move through each developmental phase at their own pace as valued members of our close-knit community.

Our creative arts specialists inspire a plethora of stimulating creative activities in addition to the generous opportunities provided by the Montessori classroom environments.

Our children enjoy daily time outdoors bringing them in close contact with their natural surroundings. Our “Discovery

Garden” has grown in collaboration with the children, teachers and parents to provide inspiring spaces for work, play and mindfulness. Out in the paddocks the children spend time in open-ended exploration and environmental projects.

For children from one year old onwards our Infant Community is a home from home, in which they discover and learn in the most calm, supportive surroundings.

From three years old children move to ‘Children’s House’, our nursery class, where all aspects of their development are given time and encouragement, helping to nurture a lifelong love of learning.

Edinburgh Montessori Arts School

For more information call 0131 446 0777.Town Mains Studios, 18N Liberton Brae, EH16 6AE

Our aim is not merely to make children understand, but so to touch their

imaginations as to enthuse them to their innermost core. – MARIA MONTESSORI

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Babies and Toddlers Set within a cosy building and garden, parents and toddlers enjoy meeting together to talk, play, bake, do crafts, explore the grounds and share experiences.

The Kindergarten From around age three until after their sixth birthday, children can attend our Kindergarten without parents. At Steiner schools, desk-based learning is introduced later than at most schools in the UK. Instead, the holistic education we offer helps young children to learn vital attributes through hands on experience including listening, communication, social and emotional development, pre-literacy and pre-numeracy skills and physical agility.

Each day can begin with an activity such as painting, cleaning or baking which leads into a longer period of

free play to encourage imaginative thinking and foster social competence. Water-colour painting, drawing, modelling and other artistic activities awaken creativity, while the rich imagery of fairy tales, poetry, plays and songs nourish the child’s language skills and feelings. Circle games and outdoor play increase physical strength, coordination and grace while seasonal festivals foster a meaningful connection with nature and a rhythmical passing of the year.

The Kindergarten CommunitySince young children learn by imitation, our Kindergarten teachers lead by example ensuring the capacity to

imitate freely is allowed to flourish. This means

our pupils discover the importance of watering the plants, tending the garden or feeding leftovers to the birds

simply by observing and joining in.

Kindergarten education is comprehensive and stimulating. Our

youngest pupils are nourished and nurtured to be at ease with themselves and the world around them. Our holistic and considered approach to the formative early years stimulates eager, creative and responsive children ready to begin desk-based education in Class 1.

Edinburgh Steiner School Kindergarten

www.edinburghsteiner school.org.uk admissions@edinburghsteiner school.org.uk


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George Heriot’s School George Heriot’s School purpose-built Nursery was designed with great care and is very well suited to the needs of children. The Nursery’s historic setting and modern facilities make it a very attractive facility for our 32 Pre-School Nursery pupils. The Nursery day runs from 8.15 am to 2.00 pm and After Nursery Care is available until 6.00 pm.

Our Nursery, which is registered as a Partner Provider with the City of Edinburgh Pre-School Partnership, endorses A Curriculum for Excellence. Our pupils engage in purposeful play which utilises the full potential of the indoor and outdoor learning environments which the stunning campus of Heriot’s provides. There is also more formal learning in preparation for Primary 1.

Our Nursery education is delivered by fully-qualified primary teachers, nursery nurses and a range of subject specialists. Appropriate resources

are provided in response to careful observations and planning in order to maximise each child’s potential. Staff plan activities and experiences which recognise the importance of emotional, personal and social skills; the development of literacy and numeracy; the acquisition of creative and physical skills and knowledge of the immediate environment and the wider world. The development of each child is carefully

tracked by our excellent staff. Parents are kept fully informed and involved in the learning process.

All Nursery children sit the School’s Primary 1 Entrance Assessment in January as entry to the School is not automatic. Whilst it is hoped that Nursery pupils will progress to Primary 1, a place in Primary 1 cannot be guaranteed.

Our Open Morning will be held on Saturday 27 September 2015. To find out more, or arrange a visit to the School, please contact the Admissions Office.

Contact: Mrs Jo EastonAdmissions Director George Heriot’s School Lauriston Place, Edinburgh, EH3 9EQTel. 0131 229 7263Web: george-heriots.comGeorge Heriot’s School is governed by George Heriot’s Trust, Scottish Charity number SC011463.


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George Watson’s College

Nursery Plus provides care before and after nursery as well as during school holidays

An ideal educational start for pre-school children in secure and stimulating surroundings within purpose built accommodation

George Watson’s CollegeColinton RoadEdinburgh EH10 5EG 0131 446 6000 [email protected]

www.gwc.org.ukGeorge Watson’s College is administered by the Edinburgh Merchant Company Education Board, a charity registered in Scotland SC009747

Flexible cAre All yeAr rouNd

The Nursery at George Watson’s College provides an ideal educational start in secure and stimulating surroundings within purpose-built accommodation. The three pre-school classes provide an education designed to be a foundation for life and future learning. In the supportive, happy nursery environment, the children develop a range of skills through fun activities.

The associated care service, Nursery Plus, provides high quality flexible childcare designed to meet the needs of parents by providing before and after nursery care and holiday care throughout all nursery holidays, with the exception of the period over Christmas and New Year (including the January inservice day) and the five days prior to the start of the new session in August.

All Nursery and Nursery Plus facilities are located in two buildings – both include work and play areas, toilets, cloakrooms, kitchens for the preparation of healthy snacks and garden areas. The spaces for learning, both indoors and out, are well resourced with a variety of games, books and open-ended materials to interest and challenge our youngest pupils.

The wider world of the school campus is used regularly for safe walks and visits.

In October 2012, the Care Inspectorate inspected these facilities and awarded the highest grade, Excellent, to all four categories covered by the investigation.

For entry in August 2016, completed Nursery Application Forms should be submitted no later than 30 April 2015.


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Make your faMily part of ourslike any family, values lie at the heart of who we are. We help our boys and girls to believe in those values, follow them in all they do to become the best they can be throughout their education and beyond.

The Mary Erskine School

Stewart’s Melville College

The Junior School

Merchant Company education Board schools. registered Charity No. sC009747

0131 311 1111 [email protected] www.esms.org.uk

Our highly qualified professionals would be delighted to arrange a tour.

Nursery education for boys and girls aged three and four

Rated ‘Excellent’ in all four categories. Care Inspection Report, 2013.

The first thing you notice on visiting the ESMS Nursery is happy, motivated children playing in wonderful grounds.

Encouraging every child to blossomGirls and boys can join our Nursery aged 3, or as a 4 year olds for their Preschool year. If they join us when they are 3, they will play in our airy, purpose-built Snowdrop Room, which includes a dedicated art and craft space as well as areas to be busy or rest with friends. Within our preschool rooms, every child is nurtured in all aspects of development by fully qualified teachers and experienced early years staff, and have regular sessions of music, dance and ICT.

The children then move seamlessly into Primary 1, at the same campus, with no need for parents or children to worry about P1 entry assessments.

Flexible hoursNursery hours are 8.30am-12.30pm during term time, and our e-Plus services offer flexible wraparound care, including

an early drop-off from 7.45am, an extended morning until 2.30pm or afternoon care until 6pm as well as a holiday club which is open during every holiday period throughout the year apart from Christmas and New Year.

The Nursery is in partnership with Edinburgh City Council so children are eligible for partnership funding.

A unique family of schoolsJoining the ESMS Nursery is the first step of a unique education from 3 to 18 that gives every boy and girl the opportunity to reach his or her full potential. Our family of schools combines the best of co-ed and single-sex education and regularly wins awards and accolades. You are welcome to visit at any time throughout the year.

Erskine Stewart’s Melville School

For further information, please contact our Admissions Secretary. Tel: 0131 311 1111 Email: [email protected]

St George’s School Nursery is situated in Edinburgh’s West End on the school’s fifteen acre, parkland campus. Our nursery welcomes girls and boys from 18 months with boys admitted up to the end of pre-school at the age of 4-5 years. For babies we offer a comprehensive pre-nursery childcare service. Wrap-around care is available from 7.45 am and until 6.00 pm, offering flexibility to busy parents.

The nursery provides a flexible and caring school education. Children learn through play in wonderfully designed rooms. The curriculum is planned in consultation with parents and supported by extensive use of information and communications and specialist teaching in PE, music, and art. There is also an emphasis on outdoor education and regular opportunities to experience, science, drama, dance, yoga and languages.

The nursery, located in the Junior

School at St George’s School for Girls, is an integral part of the school and is staffed by a highly qualified team of early education professionals.

The latest Care Inspectorate report graded all areas ‘excellent’ or ‘very good’. Particular mention was made of the range of outdoor spaces that had been developed to provide “opportunities for adventure and engagement, enriching children’s experiences while attending nursery.”

The nursery provides a collaborative approach to learning and ensures a smooth transition to the next stage of school life.


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with care provided for babies from 18 months upwards

• Excellent indoor environment and outstanding range of outdoor play areas

professionals• Specialist teaching in PE and music• Run in partnership with The City of Edinburgh Council with part-funded places• An integral part of the Junior School at St George’s School for Girls in Murrayfield

t: 0131 311 8008 [email protected] Murrayfield, Edinburgh EH12 6BG Charity No. SC012632

Watch our nursery video and listen to our podcast of ‘Q&As’www.st-georges.edin.sch.uk/nursery

St George’s Nursery

All areas excellentor very goodCare Inspectorate report, February 2013

St George’s School Nursery, Murrayfield

For further information please contact Karen Batty in Admissions by telephoning 0131 311 8008. Watch our nursery video and listen to our nursery ‘Q&A’ podcast on our website: www.stge.org.uk/nursery. Book a visit with us today!

Children learn through play

in wonderfully designed rooms

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24 nursery PROFILES

Loretto Nursery

We’re a School with a dif ference. Founded in

1827, Loretto is a boarding and day School

for just over 600 boys and girls aged 3-18

set in an 85 acre leafy campus just to the east

of Edinburgh. Yes, we’re all about academic

success, but we’re also well known for our

emphasis on the development of the whole

person in Mind, Body and Spirit. Scholarships

and means-tested bursaries up to 105% of

the fees available.

Junior School (age 3-12) Open Morning - Saturday 27th September

Senior School (age 12-18) Open Morning - Saturday 4th October

A different school of thought.

LINKFIELD ROAD, MUSSELBURGH, EAST LOTHIAN EH21 7RE, SCOTLAND, UK TEL: +44(0)131 653 4455 [email protected] www.loretto.com

LINKFIELD ROAD, MUSSELBURGH, EAST LOTHIAN EH21 7RE, SCOTLAND, UKTEL: +44(0)131 653 4455 [email protected] www.loretto.com

We’re a School with a difference. Founded in 1827, Loretto is a boarding and day School for just over 600 boys and girls aged 3-18 set in an 85 acre leafy campus just to the east of Edinburgh. Yes, we’re all about academic success, but we’re also well known for our emphasis on the development of the whole person in Mind, Body and Spirit. Scholarships and means-tested bursaries up to 105% of the fees available.

We’re a School with a dif ference. Founded in

1827, Loretto is a boarding and day School

for just over 600 boys and girls aged 3-18

set in an 85 acre leafy campus just to the east

of Edinburgh. Yes, we’re all about academic

success, but we’re also well known for our

emphasis on the development of the whole

person in Mind, Body and Spirit. Scholarships

and means-tested bursaries up to 105% of

the fees available.

Junior School (age 3-12) Open Morning - Saturday 27th September

Senior School (age 12-18) Open Morning - Saturday 4th October

A different school of thought.

LINKFIELD ROAD, MUSSELBURGH, EAST LOTHIAN EH21 7RE, SCOTLAND, UK TEL: +44(0)131 653 4455 [email protected] www.loretto.com

The Loretto Nursery is a private nursery school and part of Loretto School on its campus in Musselburgh, East Lothian.

Children can join the Loretto nursery from the age of 3, when a full pre-school programme is followed, based on ‘A Curriculum for Excellence’.

Full use is made of specialist facilities both inside and outside, including an interactive garden to facilitate active learning and the School Hall, which is used for Gym sessions and circle time. As well as class-based activities, specialist teaching is provided at Nursery level in Physical Education, French and Music. There are morning (8.45 - 11.45 am) and full day sessions (8.45 am - 3.00 pm).

The Nursery is child-centered and the main emphasis is on learning through play. It is very well resourced, and each classroom has an interactive smart board. The children are

offered a wide range of experiences, including growing their own fruit and vegetables, performing to an audience at Christmas time in our fabulous nativities and participating in a variety of trips in the local environment.

The Loretto Nursery received an outstanding nursery school report from the Care Inspectorate in 2013. The demand for nursery places is high and we often operate a waiting list.

For further details or to arrange a visit, please contact Loretto Junior School on 0131 653 4580 or email: [email protected]

The children are offered a wide range

of experiences

“ “

YOUR 18 PAGE SUPPLEMENT to Family Life in Edinburgh

Family FAVOURITES

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Property,done properly.We’re No.1 for property in East Central Scotland but it’s the other stuff that makes us who we are. We have real people on hand to answer all your property related questions. Call our friendly advisers on 0131 624 8000.

All you need is ESPC.

buying | selling | advice | mortgages | lettings | premier


27family FAVOURITES

E X PA N D I N G families

AMY WALKER, MARKETING MANAGER FOR ESPC, THE NO.1 FOR PROPERTY IN EAST CENTRAL SCOTLAND, PROVIDES AN INSIGHT INTO MAKING THE MOVE TO A FAMILY HOME.

An expanding family is one of the most common reasons for moving house. Having a child changes the priorities that you would perhaps look for in

a new home. It can be difficult to know where to start searching for a larger home for your new family and with the average house price in a city like Edinburgh significantly increasing since the turn of the century – you want to make sure you find the ideal home for your circumstances and budget.

Across Edinburgh, the average price of a three bedroom house in 2014 was £263,330. Back in 2000 a similar property would have cost an average of around £125,000. The average price of a four bedroom house in the Capital now stands at £387,184 compared to a little under £200,000 at the turn of the century.

Fortunately, like most cities, house prices across Edinburgh vary significantly and there are areas where properties are much more affordable than the citywide averages would suggest. In Silverknowes, towards the north of the city, the average price of a three bedroom house is £240,362, with a four bedroom property in the area selling for an average of a little under £260,000. In Currie the average price of a three bedroom house in 2014 was just over £230,000 whilst in South Queensferry three bedroom homes sold for an average of £190,752 – 28% below the citywide average.

Of course it goes without saying that price is not the only factor to consider when you’re looking for a home and that’s especially true when you have a family to think about. Here are a few points that you may wish to consider if you’re thinking of moving to a family home: l Sense of community – is it a family-friendly area where

there are other families with young children close by? l Safety – look out for areas with a low crime rate and

perhaps where you would feel happy with your kids playing out the front or riding bikes in the street.

l Playing space – is there a garden or park close by so that the kids have an outdoor space to play?

l Local amenities – easy access to shops are of key importance, public transport links, child friendly activities etc.

l How many extra bedrooms you would like? – moving house can be expensive and you want to make sure you have enough space for the longer term.

In addition to the points above one of the key factors for many young families when looking for a place to live is the school catchment area their new home will lie in. Properties that lie within the catchment area of the better performing schools tend to attract higher demand and as a result house prices in these areas are typically higher than in other areas of the city. In the EH10 postcode district for example, where Boroughmuir High School lies, the average price of a three-bedroom house is £327,990, almost 25% higher than the citywide average. In EH9, near James Gillespie’s High School three bedroom houses sold for an average of just over £400,000, more than 50% above the Edinburgh average for a similarly sized home.

Finding areas that tick all of the boxes can be tricky. ESPC prides itself on the local knowledge of its staff. This includes everything from house prices to local amenities so if you have any questions you can give us a call on 0131 624 8000 or pop into our George Street showroom where one of our friendly advisers will be happy to help advise you on your next move. We offer free advice every day of the week and can make sure you find the right home to suit you and your new family. All you need is ESPC. ■

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A chance to think about all the things your child will need in their space, a chance to think about what their tastes are and how they will develop as time

goes by. This is a space where they can play, store their belongings, have friends over, feel safe and get a good night’s sleep. Not much to ask for from one room!

It’s worth having a think about how long they are going to be in that room and how often you are prepared to decorate and buy furniture, blinds, accessories, etc. It’s also worth thinking about how much your are able to do yourselves and when it’s time to call in the experts.

Firstly this is space is meant to be fun! They are only young once so let them express themselves. They will like somewhere to display all the treasures (from their last trip to the beach), or all the certificates of their achievements or all the great works of art they’ve created.

Being bold with colour on walls is a great way to inject fun into their room. Once walls, ceilings and woodwork have been prepared properly and thoroughly, the painting is the easy bit so it’s not hard to then make any changes.

Furniture needs to last. Well-built furniture may cost more initially but will be with your child for a long time. Second hand furniture will be cheaper and can be made into something quite different with maybe a lick of paint or new handles.

Think about creating a restful space for sleeping. This doesn’t necessarily need to be the wall colour but this can be achieved through versatile lighting or black out blinds. We all know how vital sleep is!!

Think about them having their friends or cousins over,

maybe for a play in the afternoon or a sleepover.Where are they (I mean, you) going to put all their toys,

clothes, pieces of equipment they will need? Make spaces easy for them to tidy up (low down hooks for clothes and easy to move toy boxes so they can start clearing up) You will always need more storage!!

PRACTICALITIES:Think about the finish you want on the walls as well as the colour. A soft sheen will have a slight shine to it but will be easy to wipe clean when necessary!

Don’t climb up a ladder when you’re pregnant and doing any decorating yourself.

Be careful when stripping walls, there could be some nasty chemicals in the walls from before the 1960s.

Call in an expert for advice. We, at Paint Edinburgh, often advise on room surfaces, colours and products to use on the walls and woodwork and we have a great resource of ideas for soft furnishings, storage, flooring and lighting.

Paint Edinburgh - owned by Katie & Colin Ellis, parents’ to 2 boys with very different tastes and interests. A small, friendly decorating business with a keen eye for detail and an aim to minimise the disruption of having tradesmen in your home. Phone for advice and help with your decorating. ■

Contact us on [email protected] or 0131 466 4275 www.paint-edinburgh.com

KATIE ELLIS, OWNER OF PAINT EDINBURGH PROVIDES ADVICE ON PAINTING YOUR CHILDS ROOM.

CHILD'S ROOMDECORATING A

ENG_28NOV Photography has been enhanced in post production. 5 stars awarded for customers’ willingness to ‘Recommend to a Friend’ in findings of the 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012 and 2013 surveys, undertaken by the Home Builders Federation (HBF).

F O R T H E M O S T S O U G H T- A F T E R L O C AT I O N S

C O ME TO C A L A NO W

A selection of apartments, terraced and detached homes throughout East Scotland

A typical street scene at Gilsland Grange, North Berwick

D E V E L O P M E N T S T H R O U G H O U T E A S T S C OT L A N D.C A L L N O W O N 0 1 3 2 4 6 0 0 0 0 0 . C A L A . C O . U K

5 star customer service 5 years running

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family FAVOURITES


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The Flower Girl DressThis adorable dress comes in ivory white or pink, sizes 6month-8yrs £79-£89.

From Blessings and Blossoms. Specialist suppliers of quality Childrens Clothing, Christening and Communion wear.132 St John’s Rd, Costorphine EH12 8AX.www.blessingsandblossoms.co.uk

Best SellersTHE BEST OF 2014

EDITOR’S PICKS FOR TOP-NOTCH GIFTSFOR BABY, CHILD AND YOU !

Choosing gifts can be challenging when faced with an array of products, shops and websites. We hope to make that job a little easier for you. The Nursery Guide asked four independently owned shops in Edinburgh who sell unique, good quality, carefully selected products ‘what was your top selling item of 2014’. You’ll find the best of 2014 here:

Boots and Party SkirtsLea Lelo Flower boot size 24-30 £46.00, size 31-35 £49.50. Amazing tutus from Treacle Boutique only £24.99

From Maddie and Mark’s Shoes have 3 shops across Edinburgh in Blackhall, Bruntsfield and Portobello - they are all open 9.30-5.30 Mon-Sat & 11-5 Sunday.www.maddieandmarks.com

Little Life DaysackFor toddlers age 1-4 years these colourful character bags come in a variety of animal styles and are a lovely alternative to safety reins. The bag allows them to carry their favourite toy on a day out and is a great purchase complementing the toddler’s first pair of shoes. £19.99

From Treehouse Childrens Ware. An exciting range of shoes, clothes, books, toys, and gifts, plus a hairdressing service dedicated solely for children.10-12 Hamilton Place, Stockbridge. EH3 5AUwww.treehousechildrensware.co.uk

Baby Rattle with Gift Box by Rufus Rabbit An adorable super soft rabbit rattle with crinkly ears and tinkling bell packaged in a truly lovely little bunny gift box. All their baby products have passed the relevant safety tests which makes this rattle perfect for drooling, chewing, loving and playing with! A perfect baby gift…..£11.95

From Cloudberry Gifts. An exciting boutique style gift and coffee shop193 Whitehouse Rd, Barnton, EH4 6BU.www.cloudberrygifts.co.uk

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Tiki Tots, 1A Nile Grove, Edinburgh, EH10 4RE

T: 0131 447 0251 E: [email protected]

©

Play & Party Centre

www.tikitots.co.uk

Which party will you choose?You’ll be spoilt for choice with the exciting parties we offer at

Maddie & Mark’s Play Town in Ocean Terminal. And we make it so easy, the kids have a ball and you don’t have

to clean up afterwards! We even offer exclusive use.

Simply Softplay * frozen * Superhero chocolate fondue * pamper * BaBy & toddler

pirate & mermaidS * fairieS & knightS

find out more: [email protected] call 0131 343 3289 or see www.maddieandmarks.com

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Edinburgh’s largest and most exhilarating soft play centre, Gambado at Fountain Park, which hosts over 1,000 parties every year, has extended its bespoke toddler party packages to include everything from Princess and Make a Bear to Tiger and Foam Dart Frenzy.

The recently refurbished 15,000 sq ft soft play centre, which features a three-tier climbing frame with ball cannons and slides, a climbing wall, 31-seater traditional carousel and gated sensory area for toddlers, has six fantastic party rooms, catering for up to 30 kids, aged 1-5 years

Parties start from £7.95 and vary depending on peak and off peak hours, and include a free special gift for the birthday child, free rides on the carousel, magic tricks and games, hot and cold buffet, free squash and water and optional character guest appearances. Gambado can also look after invites, party bags, thank you cards and catering for the parents too for additional cost.

Every party also has its very own host for the full duration who looks after everything, ensuring your child has a very special day to remember.

This means all mums and dads need to do is sit back, relax and enjoy knowing that everything is taken care of.

The Princess party for 3 years plus is the perfect fairy tale party. Pick the Princess of your choice who will provide entertainment and a range of activities for the first hour. Then following 30mins of free play, kids are invited to enjoy a celebratory Royal Feast.

For toddlers and pre-school children, the Tiger Tots Party is ideal with 40mins of free play, interactive play for a further 40mins and then for the final 40mins, kids can enjoy a delicious celebration buffet meal. The hugely popular Tiger Party, for all kids from 1 years plus, includes 80mins of free play and 40mins for the party buffet and celebrations.

For kids, aged 3 plus who like making things the Make A Bear workshop is a great choice, especially as they all have a special keepsake to take home. This includes a 40mins Make a Bear workshop, 40mins of free play and 40mins to enjoy the party buffet and celebration.

Give us a call on 0844 375 9494 or 0131 202 3566 www.gambado.com

TOP KIDS Party VenueNEW Party and Play Centre

Introducing Tiki Tots, Edinburgh’s new party and play centre! From unlimited play prices, a brand new menu and fun filled party packages for little explorers – there really is something for everyone!

With two themed play rooms in Bush Babies (0-3 years) and Tiki Tots (2+) where better to let your little explorers burn up some energy whilst you relax in the comfortable surroundings of the Tiki Lounge. The venue has also recently launch a weekly activity programme featuring some of Edinburgh’s leading activity providers including Monkey Music, Step it Up Dance and Bee Spanish to name but a few. Tiki Tots is open 7 days a week. T: 0131 447 0251 www.tikitots.co.uk

Those folk at Maddie & Mark’s Play Town really know how to host a party. There’s a fantastic range of themes to suit the tinies right up to the teens. From Baby & Toddler, Fairies & Knights or even Pamper (to name a few).

But that’s just the start, with a dedicated host, delicious food and a delightful view, Maddie & Mark’s Play Town at Ocean Terminal makes the perfect party venue. They even offer exclusive use!To discover more call 0131 343 3289 or email [email protected]

PLAY TOWN, THE ULTIMATE PARTY TOWN!

PAINT your ownEdinburgh’s original “paint your own” pottery workshop.Doodles established in 1999, offer a creative and fun environment for all ages and abilities and unique gifts for all occasions. Doodles specialise in children’s hand/foot print and imprints. They also run children’s holiday workshops, adult evening classes and birthday parties. Open 7 days a week and late every Tues, Wed and Thurs.www.doodles scotland.co.uk

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As a parent or carer, your primary concern is to help protect your children, and it can be difficult to know where to turn for advice or support if your child is feeling unwell.

There’s no need to worry however, as help is at hand thanks to Edinburgh private health practice, YourGP, which recently introduced a specific children’s clinic led by Dr Jo McCrone.

YourGP, based in Dean Village in the west end of Edinburgh, offers the complete range of doctor services including blood tests, baby jabs, development checks, and immunisations and vaccines.

It is vital that your child has all of their necessary routine vaccinations, and at YourGP, a childhood immunisation will be as stress-free and untraumatic as possible.

The full national schedules vaccines are available, such as meningitis, flu and MMR, while YourGP also offer the

meningitis B, chickenpox and hepatitis B paediatric vaccines, as well as the HPV vaccine for boys and girls from nine years old.

One key benefit of YourGP’s children’s clinic is longer consultation times of 15 minutes, 30 minutes and one hour, as well as longer opening hours, seven days a week.

Having worked as a part time GP in a busy NHS practice, as well as the A&E department of the Royal Hospital for Sick Children in Edinburgh, Dr McCrone is fully aware of how important a friendly, calm environment is for children and their families.

That’s why the staff at YourGP strive to make your visit as relaxed and comfortable as possible.

The rooms in the practice are bright,

welcoming and friendly spaces, where you will be able to read a magazine while your little ones draw, colour in or play with one of our toys.

If this sounds like the type of environment

where you’d feel relaxed and comfortable with your child, and content that they’re in safe hands, you can arrange an appointment with Dr McCrone by calling 0131 225 5656 or emailing [email protected]

Specialist children’s clinic

You can visit YourGP at Waterside House, 19 Hawthornbank Lane, Edinburgh, EH4 3BH. Limited free private parking is available. www.your-gp.com

THE SALT CAVE EXPERIENCE IS the KeyTom Kelman is a specialist Paediatric Osteopath who has provided expert advice, treatment and reassurance to families in Edinburgh for the past 12 years. First time mothers with unsettled babies or older children with postural pains, sports injuries, or headaches. Experience is the key to getting fast results and putting anxious parents and their children on the road to recovery. Tom has a post graduate diploma from the renowned Osteopathic Centre for Children in London, having worked and studied there for 2 years before moving to Edinburgh with his wife and three kids. Tel: 0131 346 0134 www.osteopathedinburgh.co.uk

“Those first few days and weeks of living with a newborn can be the most life changing, traumatic and sleep depriving time of any new parents life.Infant Massage Edinburgh will work with you,

helping you to learn to communicate with your baby, understand their cues and help you provide a nuturing and stress free environment for you and your baby.” www.infantmassageedinburgh.co.ukFB: Infant Massage Edinburgh Tel: 07946 149698

“No more antibiotics – it’s made a huge difference to our son’s life.” Chris’ mum

Asthma can develop at any age. 1 in 13 children in Scotland has asthma and it is the most common long-term medical condition. Asthma attacks are caused by an over sensitivity of the lungs and airways, which overreact to certain “triggers” and become inflamed and clogged.

Salt therapy is clinically proven; a 100% drug free natural therapy. By inhaling fine particles of salt into the entire respiratory system it helps relieve any inflammation, breaks up mucus and relieves congestion. • Salt is anti-inflammatory• Salt kills bacteria• Salt loosens excessive mucusThe effectiveness is high, helping to prevent and alleviate the symptoms of Asthma, Hay Fever, Sinusitis, Coughs, Colds and skin problems such as Eczema.

The Salt Cave, Meadowbank, Edinburgh, is open Tuesday to Saturday, and your first session is FREE! 0131 510 1091www.saltcave.co.uk

INFANT Massage

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EDINBURGH YOUNG MUSICIANS Director: Jean Murray, B.Mus.

www.e-y-m.org.uk

SATURDAY MORNING CLASSES

pre-instrumental classes, musical foundations, musicianship violin, viola, cello, recorder, chamber music, choirs, orchestras

AGES 3 TO 18

“The music school really is fantastic and a wonderful opportunity for the children” “My son has come out of every lesson saying how much he enjoys music”

“I’m fascinated & delighted by the way you teach young children about music” “Fantastic tuition, fun, great times”

ST. THOMAS OF AQUIN’S HIGH SCHOOL, NEAR TOLLCROSS

0131-226-3392 [email protected]

Registered Scottish Charity No. SCO33153

Coates Hall, 25 Grosvenor Crescent, Edinburgh EH12 5EL

St Mary,s Music SchoolScotland's specialist music school

and the Choir School of St Mary's Cathedral

For information about music forchildren in Edinburgh, including our long-established Saturday Music ClassesTelephone 0131 538 7766 or visitwww.st-marys-music-school.co.uk

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FOR HEALTHY, HAPPY KIDS DANCE FOR HEALTHY,

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URBAN DANCE CLASSES & AWARD-WINNING PARTIES SIGN UP FOR FULL ON FUN AT:

stepitupdance.co.uk 07428 110 135

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with Water Babies, the UK’s leading baby swim school3Fully qualified, world class

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0131 554 6682

WEEKLYLOCALCLASSES

WEEKLYLOCALCLASSES

classes held...in Newington, Oxgangs, Edinburgh City Centre, Dalmahoy, Hermiston Gate and many more!

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Educating children aged 1-5 through a fun mix of music, dance and drama.

Teaching skills that last a lifetime.

Visit sparklearts.co.uk to find out more and book a class.

Ballerina?Beekeeper?Flying doctor?

Ballerina?Beekeeper?Flying doctor?

Chief inspector? Film director? Flying doctor?

make learning fun.

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Creative LEARNINGThe Sparkle Arts creative approach to learning helps children, aged 1-5, develop through a fun mix of music, dance & drama. We use fun props, such as colourful puppets, photographs and musical instruments, to get everyone involved and give young imaginations the opportunity to flourish.

We bring 40 fascinating educational topics to life over 4x10week terms, and facilitate the development of knowledge in a fun, playful, interactive way. Classes meet the 4 main aims of the curriculum for excellence, and are taught by professionally trained, highly experienced teachers.

We host classes in venues across Edinburgh & East Lothian, and in nurseries, playgroups & toddler groups. Sparkle Arts also offers a party service. Please visit sparklearts.co.uk to find out more and book a class or party.

Established in Edinburgh for over 10 years, Water Babies is the UK’s leading baby swimming company, offering fun, innovative baby swimming classes, taught by world-class instructors in warm water pools. Our multi-award winning programme is structured yet gentle; centred around the needs of each individual child.

Beginners classes are suitable for babies from birth and you can register even before your baby is born. We have lots of classes to choose from in Edinburgh and the surrounding areas, available 7 days a week, with terms starting 4 times a year.

Early in 2015 we will introduce our ‘Water Babies Magical Story Book’ in which everyone can track their baby’s amazing swimming journey with stickers and badges identifying all the key skills learned each term. T: 0131 554 6682 www.waterbabies.co.ukE: [email protected]

BABY SWIMMING

URBAN DANCE for Tots Step It Up Dance is an energetic urban dance company offering classes, holiday camps and award-winning parties for tots to teens. Classes are designed to get little minds ticking and little feet moving. Nursery-based Hip Hop Tots classes have their own unique syllabi rooted in the Early Years Foundation Stage and Curriculum for Excellence and bring these to life in a fun and active way. Their award-winning parties are hugely popular too, contact Step It Up Dance today for ideas on how to host a unique and stylish party for your special person! www.stepitupdance.co.uk

St Mary’s Music School’s Saturday Music Classes take place during term time for children aged 4 – 11, who benefit from the expertise of the specialist music school’s staff, helped by senior pupils who act as class assistants and who give concerts in the coffee shop. Classes are held in the school at Coates Hall, 25 Grosvenor Crescent, in Edinburgh’s west end and include Pre-school and Early Years Kodaly, Instrumental lessons, Singing, Recorder, Theory and Dalcroze Eurhythmics. Visit website for further information and an application form.www.st-marys-music-school/Outreach

SATURDAY MUSIC CLASSES

Edinburgh Young Musicians (EYM) has been running Saturday morning music classes for over 300 children aged 3 to 18 since 1998. The youngest classes, for children in their final pre-school year, introduce children to the basic elements of music, aiming to develop their sense of rhythm and pitch, listening skills, co-ordination and imagination through movement, singing, the use of simple percussion instruments, discussion and listening to live as well as recorded music, all presented as fun and games. 0131-226-3392 www.e-y-m.org.uk

Edinburgh Young Musicians

Disco Duck, THE ULTIMATE PRE-SCHOOL DANCE EXPERIENCE

Designed to increase self-esteem, co-ordination, concentration, balance and poise but most of all with its catchy music it has a real sense of fun.

The half an hour non-stop sessions are designed for 18 months to 4 years old.

Disco duck is a great way to have fun with your little one while exercising at the same time. Classes are available right across Edinburgh.

Disco Duck was amongst the winners in the ‘Loved By Parents’ poll for the category Best Toddler Class. www.disco-duck.co.uk

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STOCKBRIDGE, MURRAYFIELD, CORSTORPHINET: 0131 260 9667 E: [email protected]

MORNINGSIDE AND PENTLANDT: 0131 441 4581 E: [email protected]

Saturday classes now open!

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Monkey Drama ADVENTUREMonkey Drama run classes in public venues, nurseries, schools and anything in between. We also deliver great parties! Our sessions are fun, themed, and full of imagination. The children explore their worlds and imaginations through role play and drama, which can help children to develop their personal and social skills. There really is no adventure like a Monkey Drama adventure. Get in touch to book. www.monkeydrama.co.uk

Portobello Music School announced last year a new programme of Thursday morning music classes for babies and toddlers with accompanying adults.Due to the overwhelming success of these classes, they are now planning to run additional baby and toddler classes as part of their Saturday morning music school. Young children love music, puppets, bouncing and tickling games, rhymes, singing books, simple instruments and spending time with their carer just having fun. Their baby and toddler classes combine all of these elements to make varied, fun filled sessions, which introduce all of the basics of music making. These classes as the start of your child’s musical journey and designed to progress naturally into their programme of creative music classes at pre-school, P1 and P2 level. From this beginning, instrumental classes follow in primary 3. www.portobellomusicschool.com

A MUSICAL JOURNEY

Bee Spanish is an ‘Early Stimulation Programme’ whose mission statement is to teach Spanish to children under six as they play and sing. Providing a unique space where children can learn Spanish through movement, music and interactive activities. Music and sound form a core part of our sessions prepared by professionals with a native Spanish speaking tutor and a qualified educational psychologist.

Our programmes: My family and me : (9 month to 5 years old) Bee baby sessions: ( 1 to 18 month old). At Tigerlilys play centre - Morningside and The Life Care Centre - Stockbridge.www.beespanish.co.uk

BEE A bilingual BABY

Easy Peasy Yoga is one of the nicest gifts you can give to yourself and your wee-one. Prenatal classes will help you through changes pregnancy brings and prepare you for the labour. Baby Yoga will connect the two of you on a whole new level. Family classes are a fun way to play with your kids and stay fit. Join us and start your magical journey with Easy Peasy Yoga. 07857 033 849 www.easypeasy.serenitynowyoga.co.uk

From bump to school and after

Baby brain training?With our children’s’ timetables already packed, how do we select activities which are both fun and beneficial?

At birth, your baby’s brain contains 100 billion neurons and the principle for brain wiring is “use it or lose it.” Exposure to foreign languages under 5 years old has a significant positive impact on your child’s brain development.

Mini French run carefully crafted sessions which boost childrens’ brain power in a gentle fun way!

In addition to their music classes, Mini French offer successful nursery programmes, ask your nursery manager.www.minifrench.co.uk

Monkey Music’s award winning Edinburgh classes introduce music to very young babies and children in a way that they understand through classes jam packed with singing, dancing, sensory props and of course the all important live instruments!

At Monkey Music, we know that music is fundamental to a pre-school aged child’s development. Our four stage curricula are designed to nurture a lifetime love of music: from rock ’n’ roll to ding-dong. Complimentary first class and 20% sibling discount available.Edinburgh North: 0131 260 9667Edinburgh South: 0131 441 4581.

COMPLIMENTARY First Class

Tumble Tots is the leading National Active Play Programme for children from six months to seven years. It provides a challenging environment for children of different ages and stages of development, with classes starting as young as 6 months.

With brightly coloured equipment and trained staff the children practice to climb, to balance, complete forward rolls, improve co-ordination, problem solving, and social skills, increase their self-confidence and so much more and all whilst having fun. Classes in Morningside, Portobello, Fairmilehead, Haddington and Marchmont. Or book a birthday party, Easter and Summer Play Schemes. www.tumbletots.com/Edinburgh

Leading National Active Play Programme

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For more information on classes, contact Louise Kings on 0131 516 3099or email [email protected]

The Nursery Guide spoke to Louise from Pyjama Drama, about her creative and imaginative drama sessions for children up to seven years.

“Our motto at Pyjama Drama is ‘Sing, dance, pretend, play; where will our imagination take us today?’ and this very much sums up what happens in a class.

For young children pretending and role-play is instinctive and it’s also an important way in which they learn about the world around them. Not only are our classes lots of fun, they help children develop important skills such as confidence,

communication, concentration and co-operation. And entering an imaginary world helps even the shyest child to come out of their shell.”

Pyjama Drama also work with nurseries, schools and run parties. www.pyjamadrama.com

Rachel Hein is an Edinburgh based photographer who offers a friendly and personal lifestyle photography service which specialises in fun, informal photography sessions for pregnancy, newborns, babies, children and families. Sessions take place at the client’s home or at a favourite outdoor location. Rachel loves to capture real life moments and produces beautiful, natural images which will be treasured for years to come. Rachel offers a range of lovely products including storyboard frames, fine art books & canvases. www.rachelhein.com

FRIENDLY AND PERSONAL LIFESTYLE PHOTOGRAPHYPyjama Drama

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Beautiful Bairns Photography Tel: 07843 912 692Email: [email protected]: www.beautifulbairns.comFacebook: www.facebook.com/BeautifulBairns

WHY INVEST IN Professional Photography?

Rachael what top tips do you have for anyone considering booking a professional photographer? “Firstly it’s great to look online at websites and get a feel for what sort of images you would like. Your own style is important so it’s important to find someone who you believe can create something that will suit your home and taste. Secondly, ask around for recommendations and read reviews on websites like Netmums, so you are confident that you are selecting a professional who can deliver what you want. The British Association of Newborn Photographers (banpas.co.uk) has a handy search facility where you can find local photographers who have proven they use baby safe posing methods, are professionally insured and trained so you know you are handing over your precious bundle to a specialist who knows what they are doing. If you have any questions, call or email the photographer and ask, I

always welcome questions and potential clients are very welcome to pop in to the studio for a cuppa and chat before they commit to booking. Often meeting someone in person helps immensely as by the time baby arrives they are no longer a stranger and you can relax. My clients call me the baby whisperer, I give you three hours of no stress, a time to sit and relax, in a comfortable environment, with tea and biscuits on hand while I

do all the work, you will feel so at ease you won’t want to go home. A photoshoot should be a fun experience not a stressful one! Lastly, don’t leave it too late! Newborns are best photographed before they are two weeks old so it’s advisable to book while you are still pregnant as I generally book up at least 4 weeks in advance for newborns.”

We spoke to three families who have all invested in Rachael’s services to photograph their babies and children. “We wanted to capture our sons cheeky personality as ababy and to have something to cherish forever. After meeting Rachael we thought she would be the ideal photographer, someone we could trust and feel at easewith. It was great to know Rachael had so muchexperience with children and was also a mum.”Gail & John - Mummy and Daddy of Samuel, age 7 months

“We were absolutely blown away by how relaxed the sessionwith Rachael was. The shoot was a lot of fun as we were able to play with our son and let him explore whilst Rachael worked her magic and the shots were absolutely beautiful.”Lisa & Euan - Mummy and Daddy of Cameron, age 2 years

“Our friends booked us a shoot with BeautifulBairns because of the awesome images on the website,and Rachael’s helpful and friendly attitude when theyenquired. It was absolutely the right choice, wehad an amazing shoot! Rachael knew exactly howto handle our precious newborn baby girl.”Jenny & Majid - Mummy and Daddy of Ayra, age 8 days

WITH BABY AND FAMILY PHOTOGRAPHY MORE POPULAR THAN EVER, WE ASKED RACHAEL LYNCH OF BEAUTIFUL BAIRNS PHOTOGRAPHY WHAT YOU SHOULD CONSIDER WHEN CHOOSING A PHOTOGRAPHER AND ALSO HEARD FROM SOME PARENTS WHO HAVE RECENTLY INVESTED IN PROFESSIONAL PHOTOS OF THEIR CHILDREN.

Locations at Granton and Sighthill For more information call: 0131 516 5773 or visit lenlothian.com

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Locations at Granton and Sighthill For more information call: 0131 516 5773 or visit lenlothian.com

PROFESSIONAL ORGANISATIONS

Is the nursery is registered with the Care Inspectorate. The registration certificate should be displayed together with a current certificate of insurance?

The nursery may have had an inspection by Education Scotland/HMIe or a recent Care Inspectorate report. They are available on the Internet?

Does the nursery also belong to a professional organisation such as the National Day Nurseries Association Scotland that will keep them informed of current issues and regulations?

Has the nursery gained any awards of excellence, eg NDNA?

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old with morning and afternoon sessions and whole day or week options from Monday to Fridays usually 8am to 6pm.

Using the guide (starting on page 47) you should be able to find a few nurseries in your local area. It is a good idea to phone those in your area and confirm if they have spaces available on the days and times you require. The earlier you can do this the better as popular nurseries do have waiting lists. Then select at least a couple to visit so that you can compare and select one that you and your child are happy with.

Also ask local parents if they can recommend a nursery, other parents will often know a nursery with a good reputation or will tell you if they have heard anything positive or negative about a day nursery you’re interested in.

We have prepared a check list to help prompt you towards the sort of questions and things to consider whilst you are visiting the nursery. You may like to write the questions that you feel are most relevant as headings on a piece of paper so that you can make notes and then compare findings with any other nurseries you visit.

What should I be looking for when visiting the nursery?Your own first impressions are the most important. Is it a friendly welcoming atmosphere? What do you see? Are the staff calm and organised? Do the children look happy and occupied? Listen to what the nursery is telling you but trust your instincts; does the nursery meets your expectations?

How to Find a

50 questions to ask when

visiting nurseries☞

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THE STAFF

What is the staff turnover? Look for a nursery with good staff benefits. Those that pay well and offer a good employment package are more likely to keep their best staff. Low staff turnover is one key to ensuring consistent, stable care for your child.

What checks and cross-references have been made before taking on new staff?

All managers should be qualified in childcare to SVQ level 4, and as a minimum, at least half of the staff in any one facility should be qualified in childcare to SVQ level 2. Also at least one member of staff should have a First Aid Certificate.

Ask about child ratios. The guidelines require:

❍ 1:3 for 0-2 years ❍ 1:5 for 2-3 years ❍ 1:8 for 3-8 years

Are the staff happy, relaxed, well presented, calm and confident? How did they interact with your child during your visit?

Some nurseries have a full time or a part-time teacher, ask how the pre-school year group are prepared for school. Do they follow the curriculum for excellence?

Does the nursery have any specialist members of staff (eg: French, music, sports or art ) or have any ‘specialists’ visiting the nursery?

THE PREMISES & EQUIPMENT

Is the equipment of good quality, clean, safe and appropriate?

Can the children help themselves easily to toys that interest them?

Is the interior bright, attractive, clean, well decorated, well ventilated, warm and light?

Is there access to fresh air and physical play?

What are the entry and exit procedures both for parents, children and visitors. Are all these areas indoors and out doors safe?

Look at what is on the walls. It’s important that there are plenty of drawings and paintings that the children have done themselves. This shows that their creativity is valued.

Where are naps taken and what sleeping facilities are provided?

THE CHILDREN

Look at the children in the nursery. Do they appear do be happy, stimulated and well occupied?

Are the children using a variety of equipment? How are the age groups mixed?

Are the staff involved in play?

DAILY ROUTINES

Ask about daily Routines :- expect activities such as painting, drawing, gluing and sticking, imaginative play with the sand pit, water table or playhouse. Story time and reading construction blocks and dough, jigsaws and puzzles, moving and dancing to music singing and simple cooking?

How much outside time is provided during the day and when/where does this take place?

Television and DVDs should play little or no part in what your child does at nursery. If DVDs are part of the curriculum, make sure they are age-appropriate and educational?

For three to five-year-olds, learning should be through play, exploration and having fun. Ask how this happens in the nursery.

Are outside trips/visits/activities/classes provided? Is there an additional charge for these? How are they supervised?

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NURSERY POLICIES

Will the nursery inform you if your child has been unhappy during the day?

What are the settling in procedures? Are any free settling-in sessions provided?

What are the nursery’s policies on allergies, potty training and discipline?

How does the nursery make sure its staff are fully aware of each child’s individual medical needs?

Are policies in place to deal with emergency procedures, injury and infectious illnesses?

Find out which illnesses will keep your child at home, and for how long? If your child is unwell, you may need to take time off work. You do have the right to take a reasonable amount of time off work if you need to care for your child at short notice.

Does the nursery share your views on sleep, discipline, feeding and other care issues? Good carers will ask detailed questions about your child’s health and care.

Does the nursery have an open door policy which encourages parents to drop in, unannounced?

FEEDBACK & COMMUNICATION

What sort of report do parents receive at the end of the day (nappies, sleeps, meals, activities) and is this verbal or written?

Is your child assigned a key worker with whom you can discuss daily matters and general progress?

FOOD OPTIONS

Are meals provided? Hot or cold?

What are the food preparation facilities like?

What provision is made for vegetarian children or those with allergies etc?

At what time are meals served?

COSTS & EXTRAS

How are nursery fees collected?

Can you have flexible hours or an hourly rate, is there a minimum of sessions your child has to attend?

Are you charged during a holiday period?

Can you have a part-time place?

Is the fee reduced for a full-time place?

Are nappies, meals, milk, activities and outings extra or included?

Is the nursery a “partner provider” which entitles you to subsidised fees for three to five-year-olds?

Do you need to give notice for your child to leave the nursery?

Does the nursery accept childcare vouchers?

If your child attends on a part-time basis, are you able to purchase “extra sessions” if necessary?

Are there any discounts available for students, families on low incomes, companies and siblings? Remember, if you spend money on childcare while you work and you qualify for the Working Tax Credit, you might be entitled to financial help with childcare costs.

FINAL CONSIDERATIONS

Did you feel the atmosphere was chaotic or calm and what do you think will best suit your child?

Do opening times fit in with your schedule? Remember, at private nurseries you are paying for the service, and shouldn’t have to drop off at precise opening times if it doesn’t suit your schedule.

Are pick-up times flexible? Is there an after school club for older children?

Is there parking available at busy times?

Find out what the entry procedures are, if there is a waiting list and if so how long?

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46 INSPECTIONS

THE CARE INSPECTORATEThe aim of the Care Inspectorate is to ensure that people receive the best quality care and to ensure that services promote and protect the rights of their users. They will identify ways in which services can improve and will support and encourage these improvements.

During each inspection, the Care Inspectorate will look at up to four areas of performance and grade these accordingly using the six point scale. On page 47 we have outlined the quality indicators, and meanings of the grades. The grades are shown for each nursery on our listings pages 48 - 62.

For further information visit www.careinspectorate.com where the leaflet, “How We Inspect”, can be downloaded.

SEEING BEYOND THE GRADES The Nursery Guide asked Dr. Irene Pollock, from Edinburgh Montessori Arts School and University of Glasgow to advise parents on how to interoperate the inspectors reports.

Choosing a nursery or out-of-school care for your child can be a daunting experience. Your options might be limited by location, opening hours, or available spaces. However, if you have a choice between settings, a report from the Care Inspectorate can be a useful factor in your decision. As a regulatory body that inspects all day-care of children services, inspection reports are a quick way to compare services. Inspectors also survey and speak to parents and children as part of the inspection and these comments can be illuminating.

However, an inspection report cannot give you the full picture of what a setting is like. Most inspections take place over a single day, so provide only a snapshot view. There can be many aspects of good practice that do not take place during the inspector’s observation, or that do not appear in the report. Some settings also change their practice for the inspection; while settings want to present their best practice, this may not be maintained and they may be graded against how well they have prepared rather than how well they perform.

The inspection process tends to use a deficit model, searching for what is lacking or weak in the setting rather than for what is good. The remit of inspections is necessarily narrow, and the Care Inspectorate often has an identified focus area such as looking at policies. Individual inspectors may also have specific areas that they emphasise. These areas may not be relevant or useful to parents; for example, the Care Inspectorate encourages settings to involve parents in improving aspects of practice and developing policies, and you may not be interested in participating.

In terms of the grades, the Care Inspectorate does not always assess every quality theme at each inspection. Each quality theme is also made up of quality statements. It is important to look beyond the overall grades to the grades for each quality statement, and it is even more important to read the associated commentary and explanation for the grades received. Grades can also reflect aspects of practice that can easily be changed immediately after the inspection, such as instituting a sign-in sheet for visitors or repairing garden equipment.

When I was selecting a nursery for my daughter, I had the choice of two local settings. I used a range of sources to make my decision, including talking to current parents, visiting the settings’ websites, and reading the inspection reports. I then visited each nursery and observed the environment and the children, and spoke to the staff. My professional background, as well as my personal values, contributed to my choosing the setting that had lower grades. Two main factors contributed to my choice: the lower grades were not relevant to my daughter’s room and I did not place a great deal of importance on them, and overall I got a better “feel” from the nursery that I eventually chose.

As parents, we all want what’s best for our children, and priorities for a day-care setting are that our children are safe and happy. While reading the full inspection report can be a useful introduction to the setting, and can highlight areas for you to look at and question, nothing can replace visiting the setting in person and talking to the staff. ■

ALL DAYCARE PROVIDERS IN SCOTLAND ARE REGULATED BY THE “CARE INSPECTORATE”. THE CARE INSPECTORATE CARRIES OUT REGULAR INSPECTIONS ON CHILDCARE PROVIDERS, INCLUDING NURSERIES, CHILD-MINDERS, PLAYGROUPS AND AFTER-SCHOOL CARE GROUPS.

Who nurseries and childminders

INSPECTS ?DE

SIG

NED

BY F

REEP

IK.C

OM

Key to using the listings on pages 48 - 62

1. The nurseries on pages 48 - 60 are private daycare nurseries listed according to area. nurseries on page 61 are independent school nurseries.

2. The information was collated in November 2014. While every effort is taken to ensure that the information is current and accurate, we cannot guarantee that this is the case. Please check all information directly with the nursery.

3. Almost all the nurseries listed are in partnership with the council which will allow you to receive a grant of around £1,550 per year which you can deduct from the fees shown for three year and four year olds.

4. The last column titled ‘Rating’ is the Care Inspectorate’s rating and the date of the last inspection. In a few cases the Inspectorate has not been to re-inspect the nursery for nearly 4 years. So bear in mind

the date beside the inspection grades as a lot could have changed since the inspection, both for better or worse.

The inspection looks at up to four areas of performance and grade these accordingly using the six point scale (6 = the best). We have displayed the grades awarded by the inspectorate in the ‘Ratings’ column for the quality of the following areas, in this order:

• Care & Support – how well the service meets the needs of each person who uses it.

• Environment – how clean, well maintained, accessible it is, the atmosphere of the service and how welcoming it is.

• Staffnng – includes qualifications and training.

• Manangement & Leadership – how the service is managed and how it develops to meet the needs of the people who use it.

Key to Grades

6 = Excellent (outstanding or sector leading)

5 = Very Good (major strengths)

4 = Good (important strengths with areas for improvement)

3 = Adequate (strengths just outweigh weaknesses)

2 = Weak (important weaknesses)

1 = Unsatisfactory (major weaknesses)

The Nursery Guide has then rated the nursery overall as: Excellent, Very Good, Good, Adequate or Weak, using the combined grades according to the Care Inspector’s findings. ■

CENTRAL NORTHWEST SOUTH EASTEAST LOTHIANMIDLOTHIANWEST LOTHIANINDPENDENT

p54p59

p52

p48p50

p61p62

p60p59

Nurseries GUIDE

Scottish Family Information Service www.scottishfamilies.gov.uk Care Inspectorate www.scswis.com

MIDLOTHIAN

EAST LOTHIAN

SOUTH

EAST

CENTRAL

NORTH

WEST

Newtongrange

Kirknewton

Currie

Bonaly

Oxgangs

GracemountGilmerton

LibertonMorningside

SciennesBruntsfield

TollcrossRoseburn

Balgreen

SighthillRatho

Brunstane

CorstorphinePortobello

Craigentinay

LeithGranton

BroughtonBlackhall

Davidson’s Mains

Kirkliston

CramondDalmeny

South Queensferry

WEST LOTHIAN


47nurseries GUIDE

Nursery Address & Contact

Capacity & Age Range

Session Times

Minimum Sessions

Full DayFees

Included in Fees

OutdoorFacilities

Specialists& Activities

*Ratings(date

inspected)

CENTRAL

WEST END

Busy Bees - Port Hamilton69 Morrison Street, EH3 8BU

0131 228 [email protected] busybees.com

90

0-5yrs

7.30am-6pm

(7.30am-1pm1pm-6pm)

2 Sessions £45-£48 Nappies Hot lunch Snacks

Decking areas for different age groups

Caterpillar Music

Zoo Lab& Outings

Very Good

5,5,5,5=20

(2012)

Chapter One Nursery5 Douglas Garden EH4 3DA

0131 220 [email protected] chapteronechildcare.com

12

3mths-5yrs

8am-6pm

(8am-1pm1pm-6pm)

No minimum £48BreakfastHot lunch Snacks

Small front garden and access to communal gardens

Jo Jingles Music

teacher

Excellent

6,6,6,6=24

(2013)

Early Days Nursery Palmerston Place36 Palmerston Place EH12 5BJ

0131 226 [email protected]

110

0-5yrs8am-6pm A full day £46-£48

NappiesHot lunch Snacks

Lovely garden

YogaMusic Dance

Swimming

Very Good

5,5,5,4=19

(2013)

Melville Street Nursery57 Melveille Street EH3 7HL


80



Wonderful garden and play area.

Forest School

French, Dance

Spanish Music

PE Yoga Swimming

Excellent

6,6,6,5=23

(2014)

Walker Street Nursery School17 Walker Street EH3 7NE


25

3yrs-5yrs8am-6pm A full day £46-£48


Beautiful landscaped

play area

French, Dance

Spanish Music

PE Yoga Swimming

Very Good

5,5,5,5=20

(2012)

Wester Coates Nursery School 13 Wester Coates Terrace EH12 5LR


26

2.5yrs-5yrs(Fri PM

aftersch Cb)

8.30am-12.30pm

(Term time only)

3 Sessions

Mornings only

£30Mornings

onlySnack

Very large garden, with

sensory garden area (sand, water,

car-track)

French Creative Arts

Priority on outdoor activities

Excellent

6,6,6,5=23

(2013)

TOLLCROSS

Baby Rainbow68 Gilmore Place, EH3 9NX


18

3mths-3yrs

8am-6pm

(8am-1pm1-pm-6pm)

2 Sessions £43

NappiesBreakfastHot lunchSnacks

Garden with soft surface

mat area

None for under 2’s

Good

4,4,4,4=16

(2013)

Rainbow Kindergarten72 Gilmore Place, EH3 9NX


20

2yrs-8yrs

8am-6pm

(8am-1pm1-pm-6pm)

2 Sessions £38

NappiesBreakfastHot lunchSnacks

Lovely garden with soft

surface mat area

Dental Hygienist

Very Good

5,5,5,5=20

(2014)

Busy Bees Nursery20 Valleyfield Street. EH3 9LR


13

18mths-5yrs

8am-5.45pm

(8am-12.30pm1.30pm-5.45pm)

No minimum £38Snacks

BYO lunch

Spacious fenced garden

& artificial grass play area

Registered as an `eco nursery’.

Silver awarded.

Very Good

4,4,5,4=17

(2014)

BRIGHT HORIZONS @ RUTLAND SQ

4a Rutland Square. EH1 2AS


Capacity: 44Age Range: 3mths-5yrsSession Times: 8am-6pm (8am-1pm, 1pm-6pm, flexible)Min Sessions: 4 SessionsFull Day Fees: £52 - £59Included in Fees : Breakfast, Hot lunch Tea and Snacks

Outdoor facilities: Fabulous split level gardens for toddlers & preschooler’sSpecialists & Activities: Music & DramaRating: 6,5,6,6 = 23, Excellent (2013)Featured on : Page 8

Information has been supplied by the nurseries and is correct at the time of compilation, Nov 2014. *See pg 47 for ‘Ratings’ description. Session = a half day, either morning or afternoon


48 private NURSERIES

OLD TOWN

Cowgate under 5’s Centre172 High Street, 7 Assembly Close EH1 1QX


57

3mths -5yrs8am-5.45pm A full day £44

Real Nappies Snacks

(Hot lunch £1.90)

Award winning garden with

range of activities and experiences

Drama, French,

Music, Yoga, Spanish &

Eco School

Excellent

6,6,6,6=24

(2013)

High School Yards57 High School Yards EH1 1LZ


57

3mths-5yrs

7.30am-6pm

(7.30am-1pm1pm-6pm)

A Full day £39-£42Snacks

BYO lunch

Child centred outdoor area

Trips to Library for

Rhyme Time & Story time

Adequate

3,3,3,3=12

(2014)

Royal Mile NurseryStamp Office Close215 High Street EH1 1PX


21

3mths-5yrs

8am-6pm

(8am-1.15pm1.15pm-6pm)

2 Sessions £42-£45 Snacks

BYO lunch

Open court yard with dedicated baby area. Adventure playground

Music

Very Good

5,5,5,5=20

(2013)

NEW TOWN

Doune Terrace Nursery9c Doune Terrace EH3 6DY


65



Exciting Garden

Music Dance

Swimming Ball Skills

Yoga

Good

4,4,4,4= 16

(2013)

Jigsaw Childcare29 Queen Street EH2 1JX

0131 225 [email protected] jigsaw-childcare.com

87

0-5yrs

7.30am-6pm

(7.30am-1pm 1pm-6pm)

2 Sessions £45Nappies Hot lunch Snacks

OppositeQueen Street

Gardens

Various outings No Data

New Town Nursery12 Dean Terrace EH4 1ND


55

0-5yrs8am-5.45pm 2 Full days £44- £46 Hot lunch

Snacks

Secure play plus with key

to private garden

Pre-SchoolSpanish

SwimmingFootball

Good

4,4,4,4= 16

(2013)

New Town Nursery Too4 Forres Street EH3 6BJ


85

0-5yrs8am-5.45pm 2 Full days £44-£46


Court Yard play area plus key to private

garden

French Ball Skills

Yoga

Excellent

6,6,6,6=24

(2013)

BROUGHTON



Session Times

Minimum Sessions

Full DayFees

Included in Fees

OutdoorFacilities

Specialists&

Activities

*Ratings(date

inspected)

HERIOT HILL NURSERY32/4 Heriot Hill Terrace EH7 4DY

0131 557 [email protected] heriothillnursery.com

Capacity: 132Age Range: 0-5yrsSession Times: 8am-6pm Half days for over 3’sMin Sessions: 2 Full daysFull Day Fees: £47Included in Fees : Hot lunch and Snacks

Outdoor facilities: Each age group have their own garden and play areas Specialists & Activities: Drama, Music Specialist, A-Star SportsRating: Very Good5,5,5,5 = 20 (2013)Featured on : Pg 12

BRIGHT HORIZONS @ ANNANDALE

37 Annandale Street Lane EH7 4LS


Capacity: 59Age Range: 3mths-5yrsSession Times: 7.30am-6pm (7.30am - 1pm, 1pm - 6pm)Min Sessions: 2 SessionsFull Day Fees: £51-£56Included in Fees : Hot lunch and Snacks

Outdoor facilities: Enclosed rear gardenSpecialists & Activities: Sparkle Arts, Music & SpanishRating: Excellent 6,5,6,6 = 23 (2013)Featured on : Pg 8


CE

NT

RA

L


49CENTRAL

NORTH EDINBURGH

INVERLEITH

Arbor Green Nursery22 Arboretum Ave, EH4 1HP


56

3mths-5yrs

8am-5.45pm

(8am-1pm 1pm-5.45pm)

3 Sessions £45

Nappies Wipes

Hot lunch Snacks

Large fully enclosed garden

French Yoga, Drama

Swimming Cookery DancingForest School

Excellent

6,6,6,6=24

(2014)

The Orchard Nursery29 Inverleith Row EH3 5QH


63

3mths-5yrs

7am-6pm

(7am-1pm1pm-6pm)

2 Sessions £45-£47 Hot lunch Snacks

Large fully enclosed garden

Music Drama French

Football

Excellent

5,5,6,5=21

(2012)



Session Times

Minimum Sessions

Full DayFees

Included in Fees

OutdoorFacilities


*Ratings(date

inspected)

THE EDINBURGH NURSERY - ONE

13 East London Street EH7 4BN


Capacity: 18Age Range: 0 - 2yrsSession Times: 8am-6pm 8am - 1pm and 1pm-6pmMin Sessions: 2 Full daysFull Day Fees: £43 - £50Included in Fees : Breakfast, Hot lunchTea and Snacks

Outdoor facilities: Lovely bright coloured courtyard & baby gardenSpecialists & Activities: German French Spanish Polish Rating: Very Good5,5,5,5 = 20 (2014 ) Featured on : Page 12

THE EDINBURGH NURSERY - TWO

3 Beaverhall Road EH7 4JQ


Capacity: 50Age Range: 2yrs - 3yrsSession Times: 8am-6pm 8am - 1pm and 1pm-6pmMin Sessions: 2 Full daysFull Day Fees: £41- £48Included in Fees : Breakfast, Hot lunch Tea and Snacks

Outdoor facilities: Lovely bright coloured courtyard & gardenSpecialists & Activities: German French Spanish Polish Rating: Very Good5,5,5,5 = 20 (2012 )Featured on : Page 12

THE EDINBURGH NURSERY - THREE

4 Beaverhall Road EH7 4JQ


Capacity: 18Age Range: 3yrs - 4yrsSession Times: 8am-6pm 8am - 1pm and 1pm-6pmMin Sessions: 2 Full daysFull Day Fees: £41 - £48Included in Fees : Breakfast, Hot lunch Tea and Snacks

Outdoor facilities: Lovely bright coloured courtyard Specialists & Activities: German French Spanish Polish Rating: Very Good5,5,5,5 = 20 (2012 ) Featured on : Page 12

THE EDINBURGH NURSERY - FOUR

129 Broughton Road EH7 4JH


Capacity: 27Age Range: 4yrs - 5yrsSession Times: 8am-6pm 8am - 1pm and 1pm-6pmMin Sessions: 2 Full daysFull Day Fees: £41- £48Included in Fees : Breakfast, Hot lunch Tea and Snacks

Outdoor facilities: Lovely bright coloured courtyard & gardenSpecialists & Activities: German French Spanish Polish Rating: Very Good5,5,5,5 = 20 (2013 ) Featured on : Page 12

THE EDINBURGH NURSERY - ZERO

71a Broughton Street EH1 3RJ


Capacity: 9Age Range: 0 - 2yrsSession Times: 8am-6pm Min Sessions: 2 Full daysFull Day Fees: £43 - £50Included in Fees : Breakfast, Hot lunch Tea and Snacks

Outdoor facilities: Lovely bright coloured courtyard & baby gardenSpecialists & Activities: German French Spanish Polish Rating: 5,5,5,5 = Very Good (2014)Featured on : Page 12




PILTON

Crewe Road Nursery Ltd124 Crewe Road South EH4 2NY

0131 332 8392 [email protected]

55

0-5yrs

8am-5.45pm

(8am - 1pm1pm - 5.45pm)

2 Sessions £41-£45Snacks

BYO lunchLarge garden

YogaNew building French staff.

Excellent

5,5,6,5=21

(2013)

North Edinburgh Childcare18b Ferry Road Avenue EH4 4BL 0131 332 8001info@northedinburghchildcare.co.uknorthedinburghchildcare.co.uk

55

4mths-12yrs

8am-6pm

(8am-1pm1pm-6pm)

Under 2’sFull day

2yrs+ 2Session

£24-£32 Hot lunch Snacks

3 Garden Areas

Forest Schools Garden

Trips to ZooCastleBeach.

Excellent

5,5,6,5=21

(2013)

GRANTON & NEWHAVEN

Busy Bees -NewhavenDavid Lloyd Club, Newhaven Place EH6 4LX


58

0-5yrs

7.30-6pm

(7.30am-1pm1pm-6pm)

2 Sessions £46 - £49

Nappies Wipes

Breakfast Hot lunch

Snack.

Outside play area with access to

David Lloyd Leisure facilities

Music Specialist

Good

4,4,4,4=16

(2013)

Waterfront NurseriesEdinburgh’s Telford College, 350 West Granton Road, EH5 1QE

0131 559 [email protected] waterfrontnursery.co.uk

135

3mths-5yrs

8am-6pm

(8am-1pm1pm-6pm)

4 Sessions £40 - £45 Hot lunch Snacks

Garden areas for all age groups, playground

with soft surface

Step it up DanceDrama

Good

4,4,4,4=16

(2013)

TRINITY

Summerside Kindergarten, 1 Summerside Street EH6 4NT

0131 554 6560summersidekindergarten@blueyonder.co.uksummersidekindergarten.org

35

3mths - 5yrs

8am-5.45pm

(8am-1pm1pm-5.45pm)

4 Sessions £44Breakfast Hot lunch

TeaWalled garden

Music Movements Gardening Activities

Very Good

4,5,6,5=20

(2013)

Trinity Tots Nursery9 Granton Road EH5 3QJ


36

0-5yrs

8am-5.45pm

(8am-12.45pm1pm-5.45pm)

2 Sessions £46Nappies

Hot LunchSnacks

Enclosed garden

SwimmingSpanish

Good

4,4,4,4 =16

(2013)

LEITH

Forbes Childrens Nursery 12, Claremont Park, Leith Links EH6 7PJ


72

3mths-5yrs

7.30am-6pm7.30am-1pm

1pm-6pm4 Sessions £50-£55

Nappies Hot Lunch

Snacks

Extensive gardens with

play, planting & digging areas

Tap Enjoy-a-ball

YogaTrips

Excellent

6,5,5,6=22

(2013)

Headstart Nursery School, 16 Queen Charlotte Street EH6 6AT 0131 555 [email protected]

67

3mths-5yrs

8am-6pm8am-1pm1pm-6pm

3 Sessions £45-£53 SnacksBYO lunch

Secluded garden

French Dance

Very Good

5,5,5,4=19

(2013)



Session Times

Minimum Sessions

Full DayFees

Included in Fees

OutdoorFacilities


*Ratings(date

inspected)

BONNINGTON HOUSE NURSERY

159 Newhaven Road EH6 4QA

0131 555 4140niki@bonningtonhousenursery.co.ukbonningtonhousenursery.co.uk

Capacity: 97Age Range: 3mths- 5yrsSession Times: 8am - 6pm8am - 1pm, 1pm - 6pmMin Sessions: 3 - 4 SessionsFull Day Fees: £48 - £50Included in Fees : Nappies, Hot lunch Snacks

Outdoor facilities: Spacious well equipped garden for all ages including forest areaSpecialists & Activities: French, Music, Art, DramaRating: Excellent6,6,6,6 = 24 (2014)Featured on : Pg 10


CE

NT

RA

LN

OR

TH


51CENTRAL & NORTH



Session Times

Minimum Sessions

Full DayFees

Included in Fees

OutdoorFacilities


*Ratings(date

inspected)

WEST EDINBURGH

MURRAYFIELD / STENHOUSE

Bright Sparks Nursery58 Saughton Crescent EH12 5SP


48

0-5yrs

8am-6pm

(part-time 4hr or 6hr slots)

2 Sessions £50 - £53 Hot lunch Snacks

Very large well equipped

garden

Soccer Tots Dance

Very Good

5,5,5,5=20

(2013)

Murrayfield Nursery52 Saughton Crescent , EH12 5SP


90

6wks-5yrs8am - 6pm 2 Full days £41 - £51 Hot lunch

Snacks

Sensory Garden

Large play area

Music Dance

Excellent

6,6,6,5=23

(2012)

The Montessori Nursery SchoolChurch of the Good Shepherd (Hall), Murrayfield Avenue EH12 6AU

0131 346 8921jpark@montessori-edinburgh.org.ukthemontessorinurseryschool.com

25

3yrs-5yrs

8.45pm-12.30pm

(Term times only)

3 Sessions

£1,330per term

for 5 mornings

Snack

(mornings only)

Well equipped large garden

and vegetable patch.

Nature Club3x Montisorri

teachers

Very Good

5,5,5,5=20

(2013)

CORSTORPHINE / SOUTH GYLE

Edinburgh Day NurseryDavid Lloyd Health Club, Glasgow Road EH12 8LH


76

3mths-5yrs

8am-6pm

(8am-1pm1pm-6pm)

NoMinimum £59

BreakfastHot lunch

Tea Snacks

Garden and climbing area.

YogaSwimming

Very Good

5,5,5,5=20

(2013)

Jigsaw ChildcareMaybury House, 40 Turnhouse Road EH12 8LX


65

3mths - 5yrs7.30am-6pm 2 Full Days £43- £45

Breakfast Hot lunch Snacks

Safe well equipped

play area and nature area.

Multi-ballSkills

Very Good

4,4,5,4=17

(2012)

Wee Gems NurseryCroileagan Nursery6a Featherhall Avenue EH12 7TQ


70

0 - 5yrs

7.30am-6pm

(7.30am-1pm1pm-6pm)

2 Sessions £45- £46

NappiesWipes

Hot lunch Snacks

Climbing Soft Play

Planting areaBaby GardenMud Kitchen

FrenchMandarin

Very Good

4,4,5,5=18

(2012)

BARNTON

Barnton Nursery534 Queensferry Road EH4 6EE


61

3mths - 5yrs

7.30am-6pm

(7.30am-1pm1.15pm-6pm)

2 Sessions £42-£44

SnacksBYO lunch or pay for hot lunch

Large well equipped

walled garden

Dance Music

Teacher

Very Good

5,5,5,4=19

(2013)

Leaps and Bounds Nursery56a Drum Brae North, EH4 8AZ


47

0-5yrs

8am-6pm

(8am-1pm1.30pm-6pm)

1 Full Day £45-£46 Hot lunch Snacks

Large secure garden with

decking area for babies

Various activities, (pick up

and drop off to school nursery)

Very Good

5,5,5,5=20

(2014)

Peek-a-Boo12 Parkgrove Loan. EH4 7QX


67

3mths-5yrs

8am-6pm

(8am-1pm1pm-6pm)

No min £43-£46 SnacksBYO lunch Large garden Football

Yoga

Excellent

5,6,6,6=23

(2012)




CRAMOND

Little Monkeys NurseryCramond House, Kirk Cramond EH4 6HZ


100

3mths-5yrs

7.30am-6.30pm

(7.30am-1pm1pm-6.30pm)


NappiesBreakfast Hot lunch

Tea

Extensive outdoor facilities

Gym, languages,

music, hairdresser, environment

teacher

Excellent

5,5,6,6=22

(2013)

GORGIE

Scallywags Children’s Nursery62 Longstone Road, EH14 2BA


45

6wks - 5yrs

8am-6pm

(8am-1pm1pm-6pm)


Nappies Wipes

Breakfast Hot lunch Snacks

Secure garden with safety

surface

MusicTalking Time

Good

4,4,4,4=16

(2013)

WESTER HAILES

Smile Childcare - Early Years4 Hailesland Place, EH14 2SL


24

0-3yrs

8am-6pm

(8am-1pm1pm-6pm)

2 Sessions £30 Hot lunch Snacks

Grassed area with toys & play area

Outings in own mini bus

Very Good

5,5,5,4=19

(2014)

Smile Childcare - Pre-School17 Calder Grove, EH11 4LZ


55

2yrs-5yrs

8am-6pm

(8am-1pm1pm-6pm)

2 Sessions £30 Hot lunch Snacks

Large grass area with lots

of toys

Outings in own mini bus

Very Good

5,5,5,4=19

(2013)

GYLE

Busy Bees -Edinburgh Park1 Lockside Park, Edinburgh Business Park, EH12 9DF


93

0-5yrs

7.30am-6pm

(7.30am-12.45pm

12.45am-6pm)

2 Sessions £43-£46Breakfast Hot Lunch

Tea

Garden, areas for each age

group and new all weather

surface

Caterpillar music

Very Good

5,4,5,4=18

(2013)

INGLISTON

Little Flyers Nursery4a Ingliston Road, By Ingliston, Newbridge EH28 8AU


21

3mths-5yrs

7.30-6pm

(7.30am-1pm1pm-6pm)

2 Sessions £45-£47 SnacksHot lunch

Secure font and back garden

Caterpillar Music

Very Good

5,5,4,4=18

(2013)

KIRKLISTON

Kirkliston Orchard Nursery, 24 Newliston RoadKirliston EH29 9EA


46

0 - 5yrs

7.30am-6pm

(7.30am-1pm 1pm-6.00pm)

2 Sessions £45-£47 SnacksBYO lunch

1/2 acre of land and a

small orchard to the rear of the garden

Dance Yoga

French Football Music

Very Good

5,5,5,5=20

(2013)



Session Times

Minimum Sessions

Full DayFees

Included in Fees

OutdoorFacilities


*Ratings(date

inspected)

BRIGHT HORIZONS@CRAMOND

26 Whitehouse Road, EH4 6PH


Capacity: 101Age Range: 3mths- 5yrsSession Times: 7.30am - 6.30pm7.30am-1pm, 1pm - 6.30pmMin Sessions: No MinimumFull Day Fees: £51- £55Included in Fees : Breakfast, Hot lunch, Tea, Snacks

Outdoor facilities: Dedicated garden for under 2’s and over 2’sSpecialists & Activities: Jo-Jingles, Enjoy-a-Ball, Sparkle Arts, Yoga, Food MonsterRating: Very Good5,4,6,5 = 20 (2013)Featured on : Pg 8


WE

ST


53WEST



Session Times

Minimum Sessions

Full DayFees

Included in Fees

OutdoorFacilities


*Ratings(date

inspected)

SOUTH EDINBURGH

BRUNTSFIELD

Little Voices Nursery46 Bruntsfield Place EH10 44Q

0131 229 1970info@littlevoicesbruntsfield.co.ukwww.littlevoicesnurseries.co.uk

76

3mths-5yrs

8am-6pm

(8am-1pm1pm-6pm)


Nappies Breakfast Hot lunch Snacks

Very large walled

garden with all weather

learning and castle play

areas.

Drama Language

Sport

Very Good

4,5,5,4=18

(2013)

Forbes Childrens Nursery5 Forbes Road EH10 4EF


25

3mths-5yrs

8am-6pm

(8am-1pm1pm-6pm)


Nappies Hot lunch (organic where

possible)

Large secure garden

Enjoy-a-BallSparkle Arts

Tatty BumpkinMandarin

Very Good

5,5,5,5=20

(2014)

Forbes Childrens Nursery7 Bruntsfield Terrace EH10 4EX


55

3mths-5yrs

8am-6pm

(8am-1pm1pm-6pm)


Nappies Hot lunch (organic where

possible)

Beautiful garden and vegetable

patch

Enjoy-a-BallSparkle Arts

Tatty BumpkinMandarin

Good

4,4,4,4= 16

(2014)

Arcadia NurseryMax Born Crescent EH9 3BF


113

3mths-5yrs

7.30am-6pm

(7.30am - 1pm1pm - 6pm)

4 Sessions £47

Nappies BreakfastHot lunch

Dinner

Large state-of-the-art

all weather surface garden

Outings

Very Good

5,5,5,5=20

(2013)

MARCHMONT / MEADOWS

Meadows Nursery5 Millerfield Place EH9 1LW


44

6mths-5yrs8am-6pm 2 Full Days £44-£48

Nappies Snacks

BYO lunch

Forest School. Well equipped

garden

FrenchYoga

Tennis Swimming

Music Dance

Excellent

6,6,5,5=22

(2013)

Royal Hospital for sick children Day Nursery11 Millerfiled Place, EH9 1LW


22

3mths-5yrs

7.30am-5.45pm

(7.30am-1pm1pm-5.45pm)

2 Sessions £25-£33Breakfast Snacks

BYO lunch

Small Garden. Well equipped

gardenSparkle Arts

Good

4,4,4,4 =16

(2014)

Stepping Stones Nursery 21(a) Millerfield Place EH9 1TW


18

0-3yrs

7am-6pm

Flexible Hours

NoMinimum

Hourly

£4.70 per hour

Nappies Wipes Snacks

BYO lunch

Secure out door area Outings

Very Good

5,5,5,5=20

(2014)

Stepping Stones Nursery1 Chalmers Crescent EH9 1TW


18

3yrs-5yrs

7am-6pm

Flexible Hours

12 hours per week

£4.70 per hour


BYO lunch

Garden with planting area

Enjoy-a-BallYoga

Very Good

5,5,5,5=20

(2014)

NEWINGTON

Playdays Nursery School4 East Suffolk Road EH16 5PJ


100

3mths-5yrs

7.30am-6pm

(7.30am-1pm1pm-6pm)


Hot lunch (for over

2yrs), snacks

Garden with astro

all-weather surface

FrenchOwn

Soft play, Dance, P.E

Taekwondo

Very Good

4,5,4,4=17

(2013)

Suffolk House Nursery10 Craigmiller EH16 5NE


120

0-5yrs

8am-6pm

(8am-1pm1pm-6pm)


Nappies, Wipes,

Hot lunch, Snacks

Large garden and planting

area

Enjoy-a-BallFrench

Spark Arts

Good

5,4,5,4=18

(2012)




Strawberry Hill Nursery13 Minto Street EH16 5NE


100

3mths-5yrs

7.45am-6pm

(7.45am-1pm1pm-6pm)

No Minimum £46-£47


BreakfastHot lunch

Large Garden with planting

area and greenhouse

Horse RidingSwimmingSpanish

YogaDrama Dance

Very Good

5,5,5,5=20

(2014)

GRANGE

Grange Private Nursery180 Grange Loan EH9 2EE


23

3mths-5yrs

8am-6pm

(8am-1pm1.15pm-6pm)

NoMinimum £44-£46 Snacks

BYO lunchTwo outdoor

play areas Sparkle Arts

Very Good

4,4,5,4=20

(2013)

Kidzcare- Grange Loan Nursery133 Grange Loan EH9 2HB


99

3mths-5yrs

8am-6pm

(8am-1pm1pm-6pm)

4 Sessions £50-£60 Snacks Hot lunch Large Garden

Leaps ‘n’ Bounds

Sparkle Arts Baby Ballet

Music

Very Good

5,5,5,4=19(2014)

Kidzcare- Norwood House Nursery9 Kilgraston Road EH9 2DX


65

3mths-5yrs

8am-6pm

(8am-1pm1pm-6pm)

4 Sessions £50-£60 Snacks Hot lunch Large Garden

Sparkle Arts Baby Ballet

Music

Excellent

5,5,6,5=21

(2012)

PRESTONFIELD

Little Monkeys Nursery28 Kilmaurs Road EH16 5DP


60

3mths-5yrs

7am-7pm

(8am-1pm1pm-6pm)


NappiesWipes,

Breakfast, Hot lunch

Tea

Two outdoor play areas

Extra Activities

Very Good

4,5,5,4=18(2013)

Priestfield House Nursery89 Priestfield Road EH16 5JD


31

3mths-5yrs

8am-6pm

(8am-12.45pm1pm-6pm)

NoMinimum £42 Hot Lunch

Snacks Secure gardenSessions in community

centre

Very Good

5,5,5,5=20

(2009-10)

MORNIGSIDE

Childsplay Nursery8 Falcan Road EH10 4AH


59

0-5yrs

8am-6pm

(8am-1pm1pm-6pm)

NoMinimum £45-£47 Hot lunch

SnackLarge garden and play area

Step up Dance

Ball Skills Swimming

Sparkle ArtsForest School

Very Good

4,5,4,5=18

(2013)

Headstart Nursery School64-68 Morningside Drive EH10 5NU


52

9mths-5yrs

8am-6pm

(8am-1pm1pm-6pm)

3Sessions £48-£52 Snacks

BYO LunchUse of

adjoining park

Hip-Hop Dance

A-Star Sports French

Very Good

4,4,5,5=18(2014)

GREENBANK

Little City Nursery, 2a Rattray Drive EH10 5TH


57

0-28 mths

7.30am-6pm

(7.30am-1pm1pm-6pm)

2 Sessions £51 Hot Lunch Snacks

Out door areas off the playrooms

Sparkle Arts

Good

4,4,4,4=16

(2013)



Session Times

Minimum Sessions

Full DayFees

Included in Fees

OutdoorFacilities


*Ratings(date

inspected)

GREENHILL MONTESSORI NURSERY

3 Greenhill Park EH10 4DW


Capacity: 20Age Range: 18mths - 5yrsSession Times: 8.30am - 4pm 9am - 12pm, 1pm-4pmMin Sessions: 3 SessionsFull Day Fees: £25 - £45Included in Fees : Snacks,BYO Lunch

Outdoor facilities: Well equipped garden with planting area.Specialists & Activities: Bi-lingual Spanish and Montessori teachingRating: Good4,4,4,4 = 16 (2013)Featured on : Pg 8


SOU

TH


55SOUTH

The City Nursery, 47 Greenbank Drive EH10 5SA


87

28mth-5yrs

7.30am-6pm

(7.30am-1pm1pm-6pm)

NoMinimum £45-£48 Hot Lunch

Snacks Garden area Enjoy-a-ballSparkle Arts

Good

4,4,4,3=15

(2013)

MERCHISTON

Corner House Day Nursery2 South Gillsland Road, EH10 5DE


58

3mths-5yrs

8am-6pm

(8am-1pm1pm-6pm)

2 Full DaysUnder 3’s

3 SessionsOver 3’s

£45-£51 Snacks Hot lunch

Large Garden and play area Jo Jingles

Excellent

5,5,6,5= 21

(2012)

Corner House Day Nursery II2 Spylaw Road, EH10 5BH


69

3mths-5yrs

8am-6pm

(8am-1pm1pm-6pm)

2 Full DaysUnder 3’s

3 SessionsOver 3’s

£43-£47 Snacks Hot lunch

Large Gardenplay area Jo Jingles

Excellent

6,5,6,5=22

(2012)

Melville House Nursery41 Polwarth Terrace EH11 1NL


105

3mths-5yrs

8am-6pm

(8am-1pm1pm-6pm)


NappiesWipesSnacks

Hot lunch

Large GardenDance

Sparkle Arts Spanish

Very Good

5,5,5,5=20

(2013)

CRAIGLOCKHART

Little Monkeys1 Craiglockhart Terrace, EH14 1AJ

0131 443 8701craiglockhart@littlemonkeysnursery.comlittlemonkeysnursery.com

108

0-5yrs

8am-6pm

(8am-3pm1pm-6pm)

2 Sessions £43-£45Breakfast Hot lunch

TeaLarge Garden

DanceSparkle ArtsLanguages

Very Good

5,5,5,5=20

(2014)

COLINTON

Colinton Private Nursery22 Dreghorn Loan EH13 0DC

0131 477 [email protected] colinton.org

59

0-5yrs

8am-6pm

(8am-1pm1.15pm-6pm)


BYO lunch

Re-developed lawn area and

rubber play area

A Star Sports

Very Good

4,4,5,4=17

(2013)



Session Times

Minimum Sessions

Full DayFees

Included in Fees

OutdoorFacilities


*Ratings(date

inspected)

CRANLEY NURSERY - CRAIGLOCKHART

38 Craiglockhart Avenue EH14 1LT


Capacity: 57Age Range: 6mths - 5yrsSession Times: 8am - 6pm 8am - 1pm, 1pm-6pmMin Sessions: 3 SessionsFull Day Fees: £46 - £48Included in Fees : Nappies, Wipes Snacks, BYO Lunch

Outdoor facilities: Fully equipped garden and planting area Specialists & Activities: Drama and FootballRating: Excellent (2012 )6,6,6,6 = 24Featured on : Pg 10

CRANLEY NURSERY - COLINTON

Paties Road Pavilion, Katesmill Road EH14 1JF


Capacity: 25Age Range: 2yrs - 5yrsSession Times: 8am - 6pm 8am - 1pm, 1pm-6pmMin Sessions: 2 SessionsFull Day Fees: £46Included in Fees : Snacks, BYO Lunch

Outdoor facilities: Front garden and use of football pitch and allotment, orchard.Specialists & Activities: Multi-Skills Tatty BumpkinsRating: Excellent6,6,6,6 = 24 (2012 )Featured on : Pg 10

BRIGHT HORIZONS @ BRUNTSFIELD7 Blantyre Terrace EH10 5AD


Capacity: 49Age Range: 3mths - 5yrsSession Times: 8am - 6pm 8am - 1pm, 1pm-6pmMin Sessions: 2 SessionsFull Day Fees: £50 - £53Included in Fees : Snacks, Hot Lunch

Outdoor facilities: Garden with safe play surfaceSpecialists & Activities: French, Yoga, Enjoy-a-Ball, Food MonsterRating: Very Good5,5,5,5 = 20 (2012)Featured on : Pg 8




Lanark Road Nursery305 Lanark Road EH14 2LL


66

6wks -5yrs7.30am-6pm 2 Full Days £43-£45

NappiesWipesSnacks

Hot Lunch

Woodland garden

Areas for each age group

Drama Football

Jo Jingles

Good

4,4,4,4=16

(2014)

The Tower House Montessori Nursery 438 Lanark Road EH13 0NJ

0131 441 [email protected], thetowerhousenursery.co.uk

72

0 -5yrs

7.30am-6pm

(8am-1pm12.30-5.30pm1.15pm-6pm)


Hot Lunch

Woodland garden and rubber play

area

Caterpillar MusicFrenchYoga

Brain Gym

Adequate

3,3,3,3=12

(2014)

LIBERTON

Carebears Childrens Nursery55 Liberton Gardens, EH16 6JT


61

0 - 5yrs

7.30am-6.30pm

(7.30am-1pm1pm-6.30pm)

NoMinimum £39

NappiesBreakfastHot Lunch

Tea

Large secure garden

Caterpillar Music

LanguagesNo Data

Chapter One Childcare50 Kirk Brae EH16 6HT


36

0 -5yrs

8am-6pm

(8am-1pm 1pm-6pm)

NoMinimum £43-£49 Snacks &

Hot LunchLarge GardenForest School

Sparkle ArtsSpanishMusic Drama

Excellent

6,6,6,5=23(2013)

Mother Goose Nursery Three 50 Howdenhall Road EH16 6PJ


38

0 -5yrs

7.30am-6pm



Hot LunchGarden and

woodland walk Swimming

Good

3,3,4,4=14

(2014)

Little Learners Nursery 98 Lasswade Road EH16 6SU

0131 664 3434info@littlelearnersnursery.co.ukwww.littlelearnersnursery.co.uk

59

0 - 5yrs

7.30am-6pm

(8am-1pm1pm-6pm)

3 Session £39-£44 Snacks Hot Lunch

Areas for each age group and

play trackJo Jingles

Good

3,4,4,4=15

(2014)

The Owl and the Pussycat Nursery 1 Claverhouse Drive EH16 6BR


40

0 -5yrs

8am-6pm8am-1pm1pm-6pm

NoMinimum £40 - £41 Snacks

Hot LunchSecure large

garden

Monkey MusicDrama

Good

4,3,4,3=14

(2013)

GILMERTON

Chapter One Childcare - Gilmerton1b Drum Street EH17 8QQ

0131 664 [email protected] chapteronechildcare.com

42

0 -5yrs

7.30am-6pm

(8am-1pm 1pm-6pm)

NoMinimum £40-£44

Snacks BreakfastHot Lunch

Tea

Two Gardens

SpanishPlay-2-learn

Music DramaDance

Very Good

5,5,5,5=20

(2014)



Session Times

Minimum Sessions

Full DayFees

Included in Fees

OutdoorFacilities


*Ratings(date

inspected)

EDINBURGH MONTESSORI ARTS SCHOOL

Mill House Tower Mains Studios, 18 Liberton Brae EH16 6AE


Capacity: 60Age Range: 0 - 5yrsSession Times: 9am - 3.30pm 9am - 12pm, 1pm-3.30pmMin Sessions: 3 - 5 SessionsFull Day Fees: £43 - £53Included in Fees : Snacks, BYO lunch

Outdoor facilities: Garden with planting area and paddockSpecialists & Activities: Art, Music Drama, Holiday Club, Dance, Spanish Montessori TeachersRating: Good4,4,4,4 = 16 (2014 )Featured on : Pg 18

BLOSSOM TREE CHILDRENS NURSERY

2 Newtoft St EH17 8RE


Capacity: 31Age Range: 3mths - 5yrsSession Times: 7.30 am - 6pm 7.30am - 1pm, 1pm-6pmMin Sessions: 3 SessionsFull Day Fees: £42Included in Fees : Snacks, Hot Lunch

Outdoor facilities: Very nice landscaped garden with astro tuff and veg patchSpecialists & Activities: Weekly language class and music and fitness.Rating: Good 4,4,4,4 = 16 (2013 )Featured on : Pg 10


SOU

TH


57SOUTH

Pinocchios Nursery6 Ferniehill Road EH17 7AB


48

0 - 5yrs

7.30am-6pm

(7.30am-1pm1pm-6pm)


Nappies BreakfastHot lunchSnacks

Large outdoor area

A Star Sports(Included)

Very Good

5,4,5,5=19

(2013)

Start Bright Nursery449 Gilmerton Rd EH17 7JG


48

0 - 5yrs

7.30am-6pm

(7.30am-1pm1pm-6pm)


Nappies BreakfastHot lunchSnacks

Large garden

Jo JinglesMusicFrenchSpanish

Adequate

3,3,3,3= 2

(2014)

FAIRMILEHEAD

Fairmile House Nursery2 Oxgangs Road EH10 7AU


55

3mths-5yrs

8am-6pm

(8am-1pm1pm-6pm)

2 Sessions £40-£42Breakfast

SnackBYO Lunch

Two gardens grassed and

paved

Creative dance, Music, Spanish, Mini

Kickers(all included)

Adequate

4,2,3,2=11

(2014)

CURRIE

Pinocchio’s Children’s Nurseries First Gate, Heriot-Watt University, Riccarton Campus EH14 4AS


55

0-5yrs

7.30am-6pm

(7.30am-1pm1pm-6pm)


BreakfastHot Lunch

SnacksNappies

Baby Milk

Large garden and sepeted

under 2’s area.

FrenchFootball

A Star Sports (included)

Very Good

4,4,5,4=17

(2013)

Currie Chilrdren’s Nursery79 Riccarton Mains Road, EH4 5NB

07852 [email protected]

53

0-5yrs

7.30am-6pm

(7.30am-1pm1pm-6pm)

No Minimum £42-£43 Hot LunchSnacks Large garden

Music Dance

Classes

(new management)

Adequate

3,2,3,2=10

(2014)

BALERNO

Jigsaw Babies32 Main Street, Balerno. EH14 7EQ


12

0-2yrs

8am-6pm

(8am-1pm1 pm-6pm)

2 Full Days £45

NappiesWipesSnacks

BYO Lunch

Garden withsoft top safe

surface

Walks in local area

Very Good

5,5,5,5=20(2013)

Jigsaw Nursery5 Main Street, Balerno. EH14 7EQ


36

2-5yrs

7.30-6pm

(7.30am-1pm1 pm-6pm)

3 Sessionsor 2 Full

Days£43

NappiesWipesSnacks

BYO Lunch

Garden withsoft top safe

surface

P.EMini Kickers

Very Good

5,5,5,5=20(2013)

LOANHEAD

Little Hawthorn Nursery16 Hawthorn Gardens, EH20 9EG


36

0-5yrs

8am-6pm

(8am-1pm1pm-6pm)

2 Sessions £40Nappies Snack

Hot Lunch

Large garden and veg patch

Swimming and Trips

Adequate

3,3,3,3=12

(2014)



Session Times

Minimum Sessions

Full DayFees

Included in Fees

OutdoorFacilities

Specialists&

Activities

*Ratings(date

inspected)

CRANLEY NURSERY - BUCKSTON

226 Braid Road EH10 6NZ


Capacity: 71Age Range: 3mths - 5yrsSession Times: 8am - 6pm 8am - 1pm, 1pm-6pmMin Sessions: 3 SessionsFull Day Fees: £45 - £47Included in Fees : Snacks, BYO Lunch

Outdoor facilities: Large secure gardenSpecialists & Activities: Multi-Skills, Tatty Bumpkin,Rating: Excellent 6,5,5,5 = 21 (2009 - ‘10)Featured on : Pg 10

BRIGHT HORIZONS @ MORTON MAINS

Morton Mains Farm House, 37, Winton Loan EH10 7AW


Capacity: 75Age Range: 3mths - 5yrsSession Times: 7.30am - 6pm 7.30am - 1pm, 1pm-6pmMin Sessions: 2 SessionsFull Day Fees: £50 - £55Included in Fees : Snacks, Breakfast & Hot Lunch

Outdoor facilities: Large garden on a farm.Specialists & Activities: Jo Jingles, Spanish, Step it up Dance, Stable VisitsRating: Very Good5,5,5,5 = 20 (2013)Featured on : Pg 8




EAST EDINBURGH

MEADOWBANK

CRAIGMILLER

Kidzcare-Haystax Nursery Hays Business Centre, Hay Avenue EH16 4AQ


19

3mths -5yrs

8am-6pm

(8am-1pm 1pm-6pm)

2 Sessions £33 Snacks Hot Lunch Secure Garden Dance, local

walks

Very Good

5,4,5,5=19

(2012)

DUDDINGSTON

Rocking Horse Nursery60a Duddingston Road EH15 1SG

0131 669 0819rockinghorsenursery@hotmail.co.ukactivekidsdaynurseries.co.uk

29

3mths -5yrs

7.30am-6pm


2 Sessions £43-£46 Snacks Hot Lunch

Secure GardenLocal Walks

SwimmingSports

Very Good

5,4,5,5=19(2013)

Cherrytrees Childrens Nursery 1c Duddingston Park, EH15 1JN

0131 669 0405 cherrytreesnurseries.co.uk

107

5mths -5yrs

8am-6pm

(8am-1pm1pm-5.30pm)

3 Sessions £42-£43 SnacksHot lunch

Well equipped garden

Drama Multi-Sports

Very Good

5,5,5,5=20(2013)

PORTOBELLO

Blossom Day Nursery15b/c Bath Street EH15 1EZ 0131 657 [email protected]

220yrs-8yrs

8am-6pm

(8am-1pm1pm-6pm)

2 Sessions £38-£40 SnacksBYO Lunch Secure garden

Arts & CraftsBeachTrips

Good

3,4,3,3=13

(2014)

Highland Fling11 East Brighton Crescent EH15 1LR 0131 468 [email protected]

40

2yrs-12yrs

8am - 6pm

(Flexible hours)2 Sessions £5 per

hourSnacks

BYO Lunch Huge garden

Art teacherOutdoor

education daily, trips inc. in fees

Excellent

6,6,6,6=24

(2013)

Little VIPs2 Windsor Place EH15 2AA


54

3mths-5yrs

8am-6pm

(8am-1pm1pm-6pm)

2 Sessions £39-£40 SnacksBYO Lunch

Sensory garden

secure safe surface play

area

Physical development

Swimming

Very Good

4,4,5,4=17

(2014)

Seabeach Nursery27 Straiton Place, EH15 2BA


25

0-5yrs

8am-6pm

(8am-1pm1pm-6pm)

2 Session £44 - £46 Snacks Hot Lunch

Small well equipped

learning and play area

Music

Good

4,4,4,4=16

(2014)

The Brighton NurseryBelfield Ln/Portobello High St,EH15 2BL


88

6mths-5yrs

8am-5.45pm

(8am-1pm 1.15pm-5.45pm)

4 Sessions £44-£47Nappies Snack

Hot Lunch

Large secure garden

SpanishIndoor

soft play climbing wall

Outdoor focus

Very Good

4,5,5,4=18

(2014)

EAST LOTHIAN (TRANENT, MUSSELBURGH, HADDINGTON & DUNBAR)

Honest Toun Nursery11-19 Stoneybank Terrace Musselburgh EH21 6LY

0131 665 5353 [email protected]/butterflies-nursery

112

0-5yrs

8am-6pm8am-1pm 1pm-6pm

No Minimum £35-£38 Sancks &

Hot lunch Two large play

areas.

DramaSparkle Arts

Music(included)

Very Good

5,5,5,5=20

(2013)



Session Times

Minimum Sessions

Full DayFees

Included in Fees

OutdoorFacilities


*Ratings(date

inspected)

BRIGHT HORIZONS @ ELSIE INGLIS

1 Waverley Park, Springs Gardens Abbey Hill EH8 8EW


Capacity: 65Age Range: 3mths - 5yrsSession Times: 8am - 6pm 8am - 1pm, 1pm-6pmMin Sessions: 4 SessionsFull Day Fees: £53 - £56Included in Fees : Snacks, Hot Lunch

Outdoor facilities: Play areas for each age group and sensory gardenSpecialists & Activities: Sparkle ArtsRating: Very Good5,4,5,4 = 18 (2009-’11)Featured on : Pg 8


SOU

TH

EA

STE

AST L

OT

HIA

N


59SOUTH • EAST • EAST LOTHIAN

The Pumpkin Patch 19 Church Street, Haddington EH41 3EX

01620 822299info@thepumpkinpatchnursery.co.ukthepumpkinpatchnursery.co.uk

65

3mths-5yrs

7.30am-6pm

(7.30am-12.50pm

1.10pm-6pm)

No Minimum £42-£47 SnackBYO lunch

Large garden lots of

activities

Drama Multi-Sports

Very Good

5,5,5,4=19(2013)

The Pumpkin Patch Edinburgh Road, Dunbar EH42 1NS

01368 865898info@thepumpkinpatchnursery.co.ukthepumpkinpatchnursery.co.uk

56

3mths-5yrs

7.30am-6pm

(8.50am- 1pm 1pm-5.10pm)

No Minimum £39-£49

SnacksBYO

(Hot lunch £2.20)

Beautiful gardens,veg patch, tennis

court.

Enjoy-a-ball, French

Jo Jingle, Trips to the

beach

Good

5,5,5,2=17

(2012-’14)

Cherrytrees Childrens Nursery3 Abbey Road, Dunbar EH42 1JP


81

0-12yrs

7am-6.30pm

(8am-1pm1pm-6pm)

2 Session £43-£44

SnacksHot lunch

for over 2’s(£2.25

under 2’s)

Gardens for each age

group.

Enjoy-a-ball, Art,

Dance, Jo Jingles, Swimming

French

Good

4,4,4,4=16

(2013)

Argyle Bridge Childrens Nursery Argyle Villa, 45 Bridge Street,Tranent. EH33 1AH


45

0-5yrs

7.30am-6pm

(7.30am-12.50pm

1pm-6pm)

2 Full days £43 Hot lunch snacks

Large enclosed

walled garden and smaller garden for

younger age group

FootballVisits & Outings

Very Good

5,5,5,5=20

(2013)

Wee Scones Nursery 8 Haddington Road, Tranent. EH33 1HW


40

0-5yrs

7.30-6pm

(7.30am-1pm1pm-6pm)


SnackBYO lunch or £1.10 for Hot Lunch

Enclosed garden

Visits & Outings in

own mini bus

Very Good

5,5,5,5=20(2013)

Fenton Barns NurseryFenton Barns, North Berwick, EH39 5BW 01620 [email protected] fentonbarnsnursery.co.uk

32

3mths-5yrs

7am-6pm

(7am-1pm1pm-6pm)

4 Sessions(if available) £48 - £49

BreakfastHot lunch

TeaNappiesWipes

Large gardenOut door Nursery

Local Outings

Good

4,4,4,4=16

(2013)

MIDLOTHIAN (DALKIETH, LASSWADE & PENICUIK)

Pinocchio’s Children’s Nurseries Newbattle Road, Eskbank, Dalkeith EH22 3AE


76

3mths-5yrs

7.30am-6pm



Nappies,Breakfast,

Hot lunch & Tea

Extensive, secure, well equipped garden.

A-Star SportsFrench

Good

3,4,4,3=14

(2013)

The Abacus Nursery3 Eskview Villas, Eskbank Dalkeith EH22 3BN


68

0-5 yrs

7.30am-6pm


2 Session £40

Nappies,Breakfast,

Hot lunch & Tea

Extensive garden Mini Kickers

Adequate

3,3,3,3=12

(2014)

Pinocchio’s Children’s Nurseries School Green, Lasswade EH18 1NB 0131 654 [email protected]

57

3mths-5yrs

7.30am-6pm


1 Full day £42 - £43

Nappies,Formula,

Milk,Breakfast,

Hot lunch & Tea

Well equipped outdoor area

A-Star SportsMini Kickers, Horse riding

FrenchNature Class

Good

4,4,4,4=16

(2014)

Pinocchio’s NurseryEastfield Drive, Penicuik EH26 8EY


50

0-5yrs

7.30am-6pm



Nappies,Formula,

Milk,Breakfast,

Hot lunch & Tea

Two Gardens

Mini Kickers

A-Star Sports(included)

Good

4,4,4,4=16

(2014)

Wizkidz Nursery20-24 Station Road, Newtongrange, EH22 4NB

0131 660 0077wizkidz-nursery.co.uk

63

3mths-5yrs

7.30am-6pm

(8am-1pm1pm-6pm

Flexi Service)

3 Sessions £42

Nappies,Breakfast, Hot lunch

Snack

Large Gardens Soft Play Area

Very Good

5,5,5,5=20

(2014)

Chapter OneCampend FarmOld Dalkeith RoadDalkeith EH22 1RS


56

3mths-5yrs

7.30-6pm


No Minimum £43 - £46

BreakfastLunch

TeaSnacksWipes

Large gardenand fun mud

garden

Drama Music

Teacher

Excellent

6,6,6,6=24

(2014)



Session Times

Minimum Sessions

Full DayFees

Included in Fees

OutdoorFacilities


*Ratings(date

inspected)




WEST LOTHIAN (NEWBRIDGE, BROXBURN, LIVINGSTON & EAST CALDER)ABC Private Nursery1 Beveridge Square Almondvale Livingston EH54 6QF


62

0-5yrs

7.15am-6.15pm

(7.15am-1pm 1pm-6.15pm)

1 Full Dayor

2 Session£37 -£39

NappiesWipes Snacks

BreakfastHot lunch

Large well quipped garden

Also an Eco garden

Baby Massage

Baby Sensory

Yoga

Good

4,4,4,3=15

(2014)

Claylands Nursery on a FarmClaylands Road, Newbridge EH28 8LZ


68

0-5yrs

7.30am-6pm

(8am-1pm 1pm-6pm)

No Minimum £42-£43 Snacks Hot lunch

Secure outdoor area

Music & Movement

Good

4,4,4,4=16

(2014)

Little Flyers 88 West Main Stree Broxburn. EH52 5LQ


80

3mths-5yrs

7.30am-6pm

(7.30am-1pm1pm-6pm)

2 Session £45NappiesSnacks

BYO lunch

Large and secure outdoor

area that is accessible

to all

Caterpillar Music

Very Good

5,5,5,5=20(2013)

Step by Step1 Simpson Parkway, Kirkton Campus, Livingston EH54 7BH


54

0-5yrs

7.30am-6pm

(7.30am-12.30pm

1pm-6pm)

2 Session £37-£39 NappiesSnacks

Hot lunch

Garden and play area

Regular farm visits

Good

3,4,3,3=13

(2014)

Wee Gems Nursery - Boxburn6 Dunnet Way East Mains Industrial Estate, Broxburn. EH52 5NN


110

0-5yrs

7am-6pm

(7am-1pm 1pm-6pm)

No minimum £43-£44NappiesWipesSnacks

Hot lunch

Large play area with

Canadian Play system

FrenchCaterpillar

Music

Mandarin(included)

Very Good

5,5,5,5=20

(2013)

Wee Gems Nursery - Livingston2 Carmondean Centre Road SouthCarmondean Livingston EH54 8PT


89

0-5yrs

7.15am-6.15pm

(7.15am-1.15pm 1.15pm-6.15pm)

2 Session £42-£43 NappiesWipesSnacks

Hot lunch

Garden and climbing play

area

French Caterpillar

musicSparkle Arts

Mandarin

Good

4,4,4,4=16

(2013)



Session Times

Minimum Sessions

Full DayFees

Included in Fees

OutdoorFacilities


*Ratings(date

inspected)

BLOSSOM TREE CHILDRENS NURSERY

1 Cedric Rise Dedridge, Livingston EH54 6JR


Capacity: 30Age Range: 3mths - 5yrsSession Times:8am - 6pm 8am - 1pm, 1pm-6pmMin Sessions: No MinimumFull Day Fees: £42Included in Fees : Snacks, Hot Lunch

Outdoor facilities: Large garden refurbished in 2014.Specialists & Activities: Weekly language class and music and fitness.Rating: Good 4,4,4,4 = 16 (2014)Featured on : Pg 10

Forest School ProgrammesIncreasingly Forest School programmes are being delivered in nurseries in recognition of the benefits to individual pupils and to deliver the Curriculum for Excellence through Outdoor Learning. Forest School programmes are delivered during the nursery day by teaching or school support staff, trained and qualified as Forest School leaders and assistants. www.foresteducation.org

MORE INFO

BRIGHT HORIZONS @ LIVINGSTON

Bankton Square, Murieston, Livingston EH54 9EY


Capacity: 120Age Range: 3mths - 5yrsSession Times: 7.30am - 6pm 7.30am - 1pm, 1pm-6pmMin Sessions: No minimumFull Day Fees: £46 - £50Included in Fees : Snacks, Hot Lunch

Outdoor facilities: All weather garden surrounded by woodland areaSpecialists & Activities: French, Caterpillar Music, Mini KickersRating: Very Good5,5,5,5 = 20 (2013)Featured on : Pg 8

TH

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OT

HIA

NS



61EAST LOTHIAN • MIDLOTHIAN • WEST LOTHIAN



SessionTimes

Minimum Sessions

Feesper term

Included in Fees

OutdoorFacilities


*Ratings( date

inspected )

INDEPENDENT SCHOOL NURSERIES (TERM TIMES ONLY, SOME OFFER HOLIDAY CARE)

Cargilfield Nursery School45 Gamekeep’s Road EH4 6HU

0131 336 2207cargilfield.com, [email protected]

40

3yrs-5yrs

8.15am-12.15am11.15am - 3pm

8am-6pmWrap Around Care

5 Sessions £1,780-£3,025

Snack

Hot lunch (full day)

Large outdoor playing area

access to whole school

grounds

French, Dance + a rotation of

other activities.Benefit from use of whole

school

Very Good4,5,5,4 = 18

(2013)

Featured on : Page 14

Clifton Hall Nursery SchoolNewbridge EH28 8LQ

0131 333 1359cliftonhall.org.uk, [email protected]

40

3yrs-5yrs

8.15am-12pm(or 1pm)

1pm-6pmAfternoon Care

5 Sessions £1,605-£2,990

Snack

Hot lunch (If stay to

1pm)

Fantastic garden and

playing facilities

Swimming4yrs

P.E, DanceFrench

Trips out

Excellent5,6,5,5= 21

(2012 )


The Compass School - NurseryWest Road, Haddington EH41 3RD

01620 822642 thecompassschool.co.uk [email protected]

20

4yrs-5yrs

8.20am-12pm8.20am-3pm 7 Sessions £2,000

£2,607

Snack

Hot lunch(additional)

Garden and playing

facilities

JudoSwimming

French included

Excellent6,6,6,6 = 24

(2013 )


The Edinburgh Academy Nursery Arboretum Road EH3 5PL


100

2yrs-5yrs

8.30am-12pm8.30am-3pm

8.30am-6pm Wrap Around Care

2 Session (2-3yrs)

5 Sessions (3-5yrs)

£771-£2,732

per annum

Snack

Hot lunch(full day)

Each room has own gardens. Access to

‘forest school’ area and

adventure playground

Junior School specialists take Music

French & PE

Holiday Care for 3yrs-5yrs


(2013)


Edinburgh Montessori Arts School Mill House Tower Mains Studios, 18 Liberton Brae EH16 6AE


50

0 - 5yrs

9am - 12.15pm 12.15pm-3.30pm

8.30am-3.30pm Wrap Around Care

3 Sessions(under 3’s)

5 Sessions(over 3’s)

£369 - £473

per month

Snack

BYO lunch

Garden and planting areas

Art, Music Drama,

Holiday Club, Montessori Teachers

Good4,3,3,4 = 14

(2012 )


Edinburgh Steiner School Kindergarten60 Spylaw Road EH10 5BR

0131 337 3410steinerweb.org.uk [email protected]

60

3yrs-6yrs

(0-3yrs parent & toddler)

8.40am-12.40pm

12.40pm-5pmAfternoon Care

3 Sessions £1,012-£1,348

Snack

BYO lunch

Its own dedicated

garden which offers swings, a sandpit, lawn and climbing

trees to explore

Help maintain the garden

Craft sessionStory Telling

Festivals

Good4,4,4,4 = 16

(2012 )


George Heriot’s School - NurseryLauriston Place EH3 9EQ

0131 229 7263georgeheriots.com, [email protected]

32

4yrs-5yrs

8.15am-2pm

7.45am - 6pmWrap Around Care

5 Sessions £2,377Snack

BYO lunch

School Lawns Mini road

map, safe play

area.

Music ClassPE


(2013 )


George Watson’s College - NurseryColinton Road EH10 5EG

0131 446 6040gwc.org.uk , [email protected]

88

3yrs-5yrs

7.45am-11.45am 11.45am-3pm

7.45am-5.45pmWrap Around Care

5 Sessions £1,347- £2,353

Snack

BYO lunch

Large safe gardens with lots of play equipment

and facilities

Nursery Plus-before and

after nursery care and care

in holidays


(2012 )


Loretto Junior School NurseryNorth Esk Lodge, North High Street, Musselburgh EH21 6JA

0131 653 4570loretto.com, [email protected]

32

3yrs-5yrs

8.30am-11.45am11.45am-3pm

7.45am-6.30pmWrap Around Care

5 Sessions £1,440- £2,550

Hot Lunch(full time)

Garden access to

whole school campus

Music, gym and modern

foreign language specialists

Very Good5,5,5,5 = 20

(2013 )


St George’s School for Girls - NurseryGarscube Terrace EH12 6BG


90

18 months-

5yrs

8.30am-1pm1pm-3pm

7.45am-6pmWrap Around Care

2-5 Sessions

£1,290 - £2,280

for 3 - 5yrs

Hot Lunch(additional)

Play area, wild wood, fantastical

forest

School specialists in music & languages.Ballet, Yoga

Monkey MusicHoliday Care

Very Good5,5,5,5 = 20

(2013 )


The Mary Erskine and Stewart’s Melville Junior School - NurseryQueensferry Road EH4 3EZ

0131 311 1111 esms.edin.sch.uk [email protected]

160

3yrs-5yrs

8.30am-12.30pm

7.45am-6pmWrap Around Care

5 Sessions £2,369 BYO lunch

Dedicated safe play area ‘Forest School’ and gardening

areas. Each room has

own access to outdoor facilities.

Ballet, Music, Dance.

e-Plus – before and after school

care and holiday club


(2013 )


Information has been supplied by the nurseries and is correct at the time of compilation, Nov 2014. *See pg 47 for ‘Ratings’ description.


62 independent NURSERIES

1 craigcrook place edinburgh eh4 3ng tel: 0131 315 3322 * 205 bruntsfield place edinburgh eh10 4dh tel: 0131 447 9779 www.maddieandmarks.co.uk * email: [email protected]

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