Where every child is safe, happy, and inspired to learn.

A Warm Welcome To Bright Star Childminding

Choosing a childcare provider is a journey of the heart. You want to know that your little one is not just supervised, but truly "seen," understood, and nurtured. At Bright Star Childminding, we offer a unique blend of professional expertise and a cozy, family-focused environment.

With over 20 years of experience across a diverse range of early years settings, we bring a wealth of knowledge to our Ofsted-registered home. However, our philosophy is simple: we provide a "home away from home." 

We believe that children reach their full potential when they feel secure enough to take risks and curious enough to explore. Here, your child isn’t just another number; they are part of a small, dedicated group where their individual personality can shine.

 Whether your child is just starting their journey at birth or preparing for the big leap to primary school, Bright Star provides the stable, loving foundation they need to thrive.

Our Approach: Patience & Connection

In our two decades of working with children, we have learned that patience is the key to unlocking a child’s potential. Our approach is centered on the social and emotional well-being of every child. We specialise in helping children develop the "soft skills" that last a lifetime: empathy, sharing, resilience, and confidence.

Parents often share that their children excel in their speaking and social skills while in my care. We prioritise communication by creating a language-rich environment where every babble, gesture, and word is valued. By focusing on emotional intelligence, we help children navigate "big feelings" and develop the social confidence to build meaningful friendships. 

We don't rush milestones here; we celebrate the journey. Through gentle guidance and a calm, patient atmosphere, we ensure that your child feels heard and supported every single day.

The Setting: Space To Grow

Bright Star is designed to be a sanctuary for discovery. Unlike a busy, loud nursery setting, our home offers a peaceful yet stimulating environment where children can learn at their own pace.

Inside, we have a dedicated playroom stocked with high-quality, age-appropriate resources that spark imagination. From sensory play for the tiniest hands to role-play and literacy corners for older toddlers, every inch of the space is intentional.

Outside, our large, secure, enclosed garden encourages children to explore and investigate. We believe that fresh air and physical movement are essential for healthy development. Whether we are digging in the mud kitchen, observing the change of seasons, or developing gross motor skills on our outdoor equipment, the garden provides a safe world of adventure. This balance of a structured indoor learning space and a free-roaming outdoor area allows children the freedom to move, breathe, and grow in a secure, private setting.

Ages 0 - 5: The Early Years Journey

The years between birth and age five are the most transformative in a human life. At Bright Star, we follow the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) framework, ensuring that your child receives a high standard of education and care tailored to their specific age and stage.

• For the Littlest Ones (0–2): We focus on sensory exploration, physical milestones, and building that crucial primary bond.

• For the Toddlers (2–3): We lean into their growing independence, focusing heavily on speech, language, and social interaction.

• For the Pre-Schoolers (3–5): We begin the gentle transition toward "school readiness," fostering a love for books, early math concepts, and the self-regulation skills they will need in a School setting.

With my deep background in the sector, we are adept at identifying where a child needs a little extra encouragement or a new challenge. We work in close partnership with parents, providing regular updates so you never miss a milestone in your child’s development.

Practical Information & Funding

We understand that modern family life is a balancing act, which is why we aim to offer a service that is as convenient as it is high-quality.

Operating Hours: We are open Monday to Friday, from 7:30 am to 6:00 pm. These extended hours are designed to support working parents, providing peace of mind that your child is in a safe, nurturing environment from the early morning until the end of the working day.

Funding and Fees: Navigating childcare costs can be complex, but we are here to help. We offer up to 30 hours of government funding for eligible children starting from 9 months old. This ensures that high-quality early years education is accessible for your family as your child grows.

Healthy Meals: Nutrition is a vital part of a child's day. While parents are welcome to provide packed lunches, we also offer nutritious, home-cooked meals for an additional cost. We cater to various dietary and cultural requirements, including intolerances, ensuring every child has the energy they need for a busy day of learning and play.

Settling In: A Gentle Start

The transition into childcare is a big milestone for both you and your little one. Drawing on my 20 years of experience, we know that every child is unique - some jump right in, while others need a little more time to feel brave.

That’s why we operate a flexible settling-in policy. We don’t rush the process. We work closely with you to design a transition period that suits your child’s temperament, whether that involves shorter "taster" sessions or a more gradual increase in hours.

Our priority is to build a bond of trust with your child so that by the time their first full day arrives, Bright Star already feels like home.