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Welcome to the Robins Nest
When primary school teacher Anna James was first looking for childcare for her son Tom, nothing met her expectations. What could she do? by Lisa de Silva
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ith the help of her mum, Jenny Hyde, who herself had 30 years’ experience of working in childcare, the duo decided to set up a nursery of their own. Pooling experience and resources, they opened the doors to Robin’s Nest Nursery in 1998. Since then the nursery has thrived and now incorporates a cosy Baby Unit alongside the main nursery, both conveniently situated within a stone’s throw of Haywards Heath station. Not surprisingly, the business is a real family affair. “Our whole philosophy is based on creating a family atmosphere,” Jenny tells me. “We know that the personal touch is the most important factor in childcare and so we aim to reflect a child’s home routines. If they nap at a certain time, or only eat specific snack items, we will work around that.” All the staff are qualified, motivated and more: they love the children and it shows. Each child has a key person who is responsible for all aspects of that child’s care, from changing nappies to working on their learning journal. “We also have key group time, when staff can spend quiet time with their key group of children and help to build confidence in those that may be shy,” Jenny explains.
“Our whole philosophy is based on creating a family atmosphere. We know that the personal touch is the most important factor in childcare and so we aim to reflect a child’s home routines.” Belinda, the cook, (and mum to one staff member) is hugely proud of the fact that Trading Standards have tested and rated her food as the highest possible quality. “It’s fantastic having Belinda,” says Jenny. “If a child says ‘I love apple crumble’, then it’s often possible for her to make it that day. She also uses the produce we’ve grown in our garden here.”
The outside space is a great asset the children really enjoy; both the baby unit and the nursery have safe and secure gardens. Children are encouraged to follow their own instincts in deciding where to play – as they would do if they were at home – and each room is dedicated to a different area of the curriculum: messy, reading, roleplaying, activity and learning, complete with IT facilities. “We have found that if you let children decide what they want to play with, they enjoy and engage with what they’re doing much better than if you’re trying to impose a strict timetable on their activities,” says Jenny. Parents are encouraged to join the family atmosphere; there are several social events throughout the year. They can also call the nursery at any time. “It’s really important to us that parents feel as comfortable as their children. We have a huge responsibility in caring for their children and it’s one we don’t take lightly.” ■
Robins Nest Day Nursery 47 Perrymount Road, Haywards Heath, West Sussex RH16 3BN | Tel. 01444 413103 www.robinsnestnursery.co.uk
South Downs Living September 2010
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