Chestnut Nursery School (Ray Lodge) School in Woodford, Woodford Green

Reviews

1. K Kay ★★★☆☆

   It's unfortunate I have to write this review as the staff at this nursery provide such good care for my children and they are really happy there. The fee increases at the nursery are crazy. In 2021 my child started at a very affordable £61 /day (and at the time, Chestnut was the cheapest in the area). Fast forward to today, daily costs are now £100 and the nursery being one of the most expensive in the area. The price hikes put us in a position to reconsider whether keeping our second child (who is settled and happy)there feasible. Head office have a complete disregard to parental concerns. If you can afford to send your children there, then do, but be mindful that yearly price (and sometimes more frequent) hikes are unpredictably high.

   almost 11 months ago
2. Gil Lewis ★☆☆☆☆

   While the care is exceptional, Chestnut’s upper management imposes extreme fee increases with less than two months’ notice. For our family, this meant an additional £7,200 per year with just seven weeks’ warning. Fees have risen 15% this year and 62% since 2021, with no transparency, no consultation with parents, no agreement on freezing prices, and no honouring of initial agreed fees. Over 60 parents requested a meeting to discuss these concerns, but Karen Broughton (managing director) and Stacey Greyo (finance) outright refused, stating they would not agree to a meeting or any discussion with parents. Our children deserve stability, but Chestnut refuses to offer it. Future fees remain unpredictable, making financial planning impossible. If you’re considering this nursery, ask about long-term affordability before enrolling.

   1 year ago
3. Kerry Warner ★★★★★

   I can't fault the Chestnut Ray Lodge staff approach to care of the children here. From Day 1 they supported our son through settling in and he is really thriving at nursery. Leticia, Bushra and Wazhma really care about the children and their development. They share updates and assessments to help keep you informed and really encourage the children, and comfort them if needed. They eat nutritious balanced meals and the menu varies which is brilliant. We can't fault it and communication from the nursery manager Lucy is great. Thank you to all the staff working hard to keep our children safe and happy at Chestnut Ray Lodge.

   almost 2 years ago

1. Wendy Lee ★★★★★

   My son started at Chestnut in January 2023. It was a tough settling in period but the staff were patient, compassionate and supported him during this transition period. If we had any feedback or concerns, they were taken on board and actioned appropriately, and we felt the management are genuinely invested in making improvements. We feel comfortable dropping him off in the mornings and know he is in good hands. Thank you to Lucy, Letty and all the team for their hard work.

   almost 3 years ago
2. Scott Kirsty ★★★★★

   We couldn’t be happier with Chestnut Nursery. Both our daughters go there- both have thrived from day one. The staff are incredible- they care so much tor the children and enable the most wonderful environment to learn, have fun and make really important life skills. The food is so varied and brilliant- they both love it! I believe this is the best nursery in the area. Thank you!

   almost 3 years ago

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