Stepping Stones Day Nursery - Rothwell

135 Wood Lane, Rothwell, Leeds LS26 0PH
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9.9 59 Reviews
  • Stepping Stones Day Nursery - Rothwell, Leeds
Stepping Stones at Rothwell opened in 2009 and has excellent transport links with Leeds city centre. Its was awarded Good by Ofsted in January 2023.

The dedicated team care for children from ages six weeks to five years within a home-from-home environment. Each child has a key person who provides comfort and reassurance, forming close relationships with parents.


The large outdoor space is sectioned into appropriate age areas and features everything from mud kitchens and sand pits to vegetable patches and construction sites. It’s used in all weathers, so waterproof clothing is available and there is a canopy for shade on sunny days.

Care Provided by Stepping Stones Day Nursery - Rothwell

  • Type of Service
  • Day Nursery – Privately Owned
  • Open all year
  • Full Day Care
  • Sessional Day Care

Good to Know

  • Person in charge
  • Emily Gissing (Nursery Manager)
  • Number of Childcare Staff
  • 15
  • Total Places for Children
  • 43
  • Age Range
    • from 0 years 3 months
    • to 5 years 0 months
  • Opening Times
  • Monday 07:00-18:30
    Tuesday 07:00-18:30
    Wednesday 07:00-18:30
    Thursday 07:00-18:30
    Friday 07:00-18:30
  • When Closed
  • Bank Holidays

Funding & Fees Guide for Stepping Stones Day Nursery - Rothwell

  • Available Sessions
    Full Day (10 Hours)
    Option 1; 7.30am to 5.30pm
    Option 2; 8.00am to 6.00pm
    Short Day (7.5Hours)
    9.00am to 4.30pm
    Morning (5 Hours)
    8.00am to 1.00pm
    Afternoon (5 Hours)
    1.00pm to 6.00pm


  • Funding is available for children aged from 9 months, subject to availability.
    A full list of our fees is available in our nursery prospectus.


  • Parking
  • Free car parking available to the side of the nursery building.


Stepping Stones Day Nursery - Rothwell Reviews (59)

Total of 59, showing 21-40
9.9

Stepping Stones Day Nursery - Rothwell has a Review Score of 9.9 (9.869) out of 10, based on 58 reviews in the last 2 years. Over all time Stepping Stones Day Nursery - Rothwell has 59 reviews.

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Overall Experience  Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5

My son has made tremendous progress since joining Stepping Stones Day Nursery. Initially, I was apprehensive about leaving him, but he has been having a fantastic time. The staff are friendly and approachable, treating him like part of the family. We love seeing the photos they upload to the private
social media group, and it's clear that he thoroughly enjoys his time there, with a variety of events and different themes to engage with each week.

Reply from Emily Gissing, Nursery Manager at Stepping Stones Day Nursery - Rothwell

Thank you so much for your wonderful review! We're thrilled to hear that your son has made such tremendous progress and is enjoying his time at Stepping Stones Day Nursery. It's completely natural to feel apprehensive at first, and we're glad that our friendly and approachable staff have made you and your son feel like part of the family. Your kind words mean a lot to us, and we look forward to continuing to support your son's growth and happiness.


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Overall Experience  Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5

Our experience with Stepping Stones in Rothwell has been entirely positive. The staff have all worked hard to ensure our son is happy and feels comfortable in the environment and the conversations we have with them underline how well they know him. Parents/ carers are regularly invited in to attend
special events and, having recently been to one of these, it was clear to see the effort that goes into ensuring every child enjoys their time at the nursery. In addition, our son regularly comes home demonstrating new, positive skills he's clearly been taught by the staff.
We were really worried about making the right choice of nursery for our family but feel really happy with our decision.

Reply from Emily Gissing, Nursery Manager at Stepping Stones Day Nursery - Rothwell

Thank you so much for your lovely review! We're thrilled to hear that your experience with Stepping Stones in Rothwell has been so positive. Our team works hard to make sure every child feels happy and comfortable, and it's great to know that our efforts are paying off. We're glad you enjoyed the special events. We put a lot of effort into making them fun and memorable for everyone. It's also wonderful to hear that your son is picking up new skills and enjoying his time with us. Choosing the right nursery is such an important decision, and we're so happy that you feel confident in your choice. Thanks for being a part of our Stepping Stones family!


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Overall Experience  Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5

Stepping Stones Day Nursery - Rothwell is such a lovely nursery. All the staff really care about the children and constantly look for ways and ideas for children to develop. My child loves it there and the photos always look like he's had fun during the day.

Reply from Emily Gissing, Nursery Manager at Stepping Stones Day Nursery - Rothwell

Thank you so much for your kind words! We're delighted to hear that you find Stepping Stones Day Nursery in Rothwell to be such a lovely place. Our staff truly cares about the children and is always looking for new ways to help them develop and grow. It's wonderful to know that your child loves being here and that the photos show how much fun he's having during the day. We appreciate your support and are so happy to have you as part of our nursery community!


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Overall Experience  Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5

The nursery is amazing and goes above and beyond to help the children. Always there when I need help. Glad I picked these guys to help basically raise my son and I will be definitely sending my daughter. The staff are all lovely and very helpful.

Reply from Emily Gissing, Nursery Manager at Stepping Stones Day Nursery - Rothwell

Thank you so much for your amazing review! We're thrilled to hear that you feel we go above and beyond to help the children. It's wonderful to know that you trust us to help look after your son and that you're planning to send your daughter as well. Our staff truly appreciates your kind words and is always here to help whenever you need it. We're so glad to have you as part of our nursery family!


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Overall Experience  Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5

I was very anxious at the thought of leaving my baby at a nursery at 5 months old, with what would be complete strangers. However, whilst I was experiencing separation anxiety, my little girl was having the time of her life. The whole team show so much love and care for my child it's like she has a
second family. She barely even looks back at me or my husband when we drop her off. Knowing I can trust she will be well cared for each day is such a relief.
Since she started at nursery we have also found that she is making massive developmental and also social leaps. This has been achieved by the constant interaction with other children of different ages, the whole nursery team and all of the different stimulating games and activities carefully arranged each day.
Thank you to the whole team at Stepping Stones Rothwell for providing a safe, loving, happy and educational setting for my baby to grow and learn.

Reply from Emily Gissing, Nursery Manager at Stepping Stones Day Nursery - Rothwell

Thank you so much for sharing your experience! We understand how difficult it can be to leave your baby at nursery, especially at such a young age. We're thrilled to hear that your little girl is having the time of her life and that our team has made her feel like she has a second family. It's wonderful to know that you feel confident in the care we provide and that your daughter is making significant developmental and social leaps. We strive to create a stimulating and nurturing environment for all the children, and it's heartwarming to hear that our efforts are making a positive impact. Thank you for your kind words and for trusting us with your child's care. We're so happy to have you as part of our Stepping Stones Rothwell family!


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Overall Experience  Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5

Both my children have always been very happy at this nursery and I have found the staff to be always friendly and caring. What I particularly like about the nursery is the home-from home feel it has whilst also being a safe learning environment in which children are encouraged to explore and develop.

Reply from Emily Gissing, Nursery Manager at Stepping Stones Day Nursery - Rothwell

Thank you so much for your lovely review! We're delighted to hear that both your children have always been very happy at our nursery. Our staff takes great pride in being friendly and caring, and it's wonderful to know that this has made a positive impact on your experience. We're especially pleased that you appreciate the home-from-home feel of our nursery. Creating a safe and nurturing environment where children are encouraged to explore and develop is our top priority. Thank you for being a part of our nursery family and for your kind words!


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Overall Experience  Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5

The staff are lovely and really helpful, they have helped enormously with helping my granddaughter settle, lots of activity's going on every day and a lovely garden to play in. They have helped and given advice to us when needed.

Reply from Emily Gissing, Nursery Manager at Stepping Stones Day Nursery - Rothwell

Thank you so much for your kind review! We're delighted to hear that our staff has been helpful in settling your granddaughter and that you find them lovely and supportive. It's wonderful to know that she enjoys the daily activities and our lovely garden.We appreciate your kind words and are always here to offer advice and support whenever needed. Thank you for being a part of our nursery community!


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Overall Experience  Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5

Both my children have attended this nursery (they are now 3 and 6).
I would absolutely recommend this nursery.
The place is small enough to keep the personal touch whilst big enough to offer three separate spaces for babies, toddlers and preschool.
The staff are just fabulous and form excellent
bonds with the kids (and parents) and they are professional and warm.
The nursery is currently under excellent management by the nursery manager and the senior team, all of whom have worked in the nursery for a number of years. There is just the right amount of communication so I feel informed but not overrun. Photos are shared (by permission) in a closed group so I can see my child interacting with others as well as taking part in activities and regular outings.
The outside space has recently been beautifully renovated.
The thing that stands out for me over the years is that the nursery has a very child-led ethos where the kids can discover their own interests at their own pace.

Reply from Emily Gissing, Nursery Manager at Stepping Stones Day Nursery - Rothwell

Thank you so much for your wonderful review! We're delighted to hear that both your children have had such positive experiences at our nursery. It's great to know that you appreciate our balance of a personal touch with dedicated spaces for each age range. Our staff takes pride in forming strong bonds with our children and their parents, and we're thrilled that you find them professional and warm. We're also glad to hear that our management team, with their years of experience, has made a positive impact. We strive to keep parents informed without overwhelming them, and it's fantastic to hear that our communication approach works well for you. We're pleased that you enjoy seeing photos of your child participating in activities and outings. Thank you for highlighting our outside space and our child-led ethos. We believe in allowing children to discover their interests at their own pace, and it's wonderful to know that this stands out to you. Thank you for recommending our nursery!


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Overall Experience  Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5

Our toddler has attended Stepping Stones since he was 8 months old and he has always enjoyed it there. The staff are great and we enjoy seeing photos they upload to the private social media group of the children and activities they get up to.

Reply from Emily Gissing, Nursery Manager at Stepping Stones Day Nursery - Rothwell

Thank you so much for your lovely review! We're thrilled to hear that your toddler has enjoyed attending Stepping Stones since he was 8 months old. Our staff takes great pride in creating a fun and nurturing environment for the children. We're glad you enjoy the photos we upload to the private social media group. It's wonderful to be able to share the children's activities and special moments with you. Thank you for being a part of our nursery community!


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Overall Experience  Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5

Stepping Stones Nursery has been amazing I was anxious about leaving my little one and going to work as he had only been around me and my mum. Although he sometimes he cries when I drop him off he always leaves with a smile on his face after having a nice time. The nursery staff are lovely and I can
see he is in good hands, they always give a report of sleep food and what he's been up to and are really helpful when I have asked for advice. I am happy with our choice of nursery and look forward to hearing about the fun things my son has done at nursery.

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Overall Experience  Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5

Such an amazing nursery with amazing staff. My little girl has grown up with Stepping Stones from the age of 6 months old, and the trust I have for all the ladies working there is huge! My daughter loves it, she is well looked after, helped developmentally and just loves to be there. They are always
there for a chat, and always warm and welcoming.

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Overall Experience  Overall Experience 4.0 out of 5

My son has been going to stepping stones since he was around 7 months old. He has grown and developed a whole lot since being in nursery. He has made lots of friends and although he still struggles at times going to nursery and leaving mum and dad, he enjoys his days at nursery and has lots of fun,
he is settled quickly the majority of the time by staff and gets on with his day. The garden has recently had an upgrade and it looks great and the children seem to love it when looking through the weekly pictures! My son enjoys the little walks to see local shops, and parks and see the horse fields too.

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Overall Experience  Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5

My granddaughter has been coming to the nursery since she was a few months old and she is now nearly two years old. She runs to the door on a morning to meet her carers, who are all fabulous with children.
They do a great job with all the activities and learning they do in the nursery and the trips
out they do to the park and farm, which my granddaughter loves, seeing and feeding the animals. She has learnt so much from being at the nursery and I would definitely recommend them.

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Overall Experience  Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5

Stepping Stones (Rothwell) provide outstanding care. My little boy has been there since he was four months old and has made incredible progress in their care, particularly in his emotional development. The staff develop the whole child and show a great deal of care. Their detailed daily handovers allow
me to rest assured that he is well cared for and happy at nursery. They know him so well. I couldn’t recommend them enough!

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Overall Experience  Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5

My daughter absolutely thrived at Stepping Stones. Their support to not only her, but also us as parents, was second to none. Nothing was too much trouble and they always had time to chat and catch up. The setting has a very intimate feel to it and very much feels like a home away from home. Our daughter
has since moved on to start primary school, but we miss Stepping Stones and the wonderful staff, and would recommend to any parent this setting if they were looking in the area!

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Overall Experience  Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5

Both my children have attended Stepping Stones and they have both thrived there. The preschool room is amazing and they are always doing really creative things in order to enable the children to learn in a fun environment.

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Overall Experience  Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5

My daughter has come on massively since joining the nursery. She enjoys day trips out with the nursery staff and seems settled. The food menu sounds delicious everyday!
She has built good relationships with the staff. The most important thing for me, as a parent, is that I know she is loved and cared
for and she absolutely is. I can sense it when I drop her off on a morning, which made the transition for myself going back to work easier.
The nursery is very educational, more so than others, which I looked around. Although it may not seem like an issue, as she’s still quite young, she will become accustomed to this and it will help her along her way to her school years.

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Overall Experience  Overall Experience 4.0 out of 5

I’ve had three of my children attend Stepping Stones Nursery. I find the staff at the nursery are very caring, nurturing and have patience. I always get a detailed handover at the end of the day and I am told about any trips they have been on, such as trips to the farm, museums and bus rides. The staff
are friendly, polite and I always feel at ease leaving my children there while I work.

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Overall Experience  Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5

I’m very happy with this nursery. The staff offer a friendly, caring approach to looking after my daughter. The daily activities help to develop my daughter's learning, as well as lots of free play time. My daughter is always happy to be dropped off. You have all been amazing! Your care, nurturing and
education at Stepping Stones has been wonderful and she has gained so much from being at your nursery. We are so thankful we chose you to start her school adventure! You have supported her to be herself, and the best of herself.

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Overall Experience  Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5

Friendly and understanding, approachable staff. Amazing care for children. Engaging activities for the children throughout the day and a variety of meals offered every day. Lots of trips out for the children too.

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Current Review Score: 9.9 (9.869)

Overview of Review Score

The Review Score of 9.9 (9.869) out of 10 for Stepping Stones Day Nursery - Rothwell is based on a) the Average Rating and b) the number of positive Reviews.

  • a) The Average Rating is 4.9 out of 5 from 58 Reviews in the last 24 months.

  • b) The score for the number of positive Reviews is 5.0 out of 5 from 58 positive Reviews in the last 24 months.

Detailed Breakdown of Review Score

The maximum Review Score for a Day Nursery is 10, which is made up from the Average Rating of Reviews (maximum of 5 points) and the Number of Reviews (maximum of 5 points) in the last 24 months:

  • a) 5 Points are available for the Average Rating from all Reviews in the last 24 months.

    The Average Rating of 4.869 for Stepping Stones Day Nursery - Rothwell is calculated as follows: ( (614 Excellents x 5) + (71 Goods x 4) + (10 Satisfactorys x 3) ) ÷ 695 Ratings = 4.869

  • b) 5 Points are available for the number of Positive Reviews in the last 24 months. A Positive Review is defined as any Review with an 'Overall Experience' of '4' or '5' (out of a max rating '5').

    The 5 Points relating to the number of positive Reviews for Stepping Stones Day Nursery - Rothwell is based on 58 positive Reviews in the last 24 months and is calculated as per below:

    The 5 points available are broken down as follows:

    • i) 4 points are available for the first 10 Positive Reviews in the last 24 months; 3 points for the first Positive Review, and then 0.125 Points for each of the next four Positive Reviews and then 0.1 Points for the next five Positive Reviews. (1st = 3.000, 2nd = 0.125, 3rd = 0.125, 4th = 0.125, 5th = 0.125, 6th = 0.100, 7th = 0.100, 8th = 0.100, 9th = 0.100, 10th = 0.100) 3 + 0.125 + 0.125 + 0.125 + 0.125 + 0.1 + 0.1 + 0.1 + 0.1 + 0.1 = 4

    • ii) 1 point is available for the number of Positive Reviews reaching 20% of the number of registered child places in the last 24 months. If this number is partially reached, then that proportion of 1 point is given. eg a Day Nursery registered for a maximum of 50 child places has to reach 10 Positive Reviews to receive 1 point, if it has 7 reviews it will receive 0.7 points. 20% of the 43 number of registered child places is 8.6, which has been reached with 58 Positive reviews. Points = 1

  • When a Review is submitted by someone who has previously submitted a Review, only the latest Review will count towards the Review Score.

  • If a Day Nursery does not have a review in the last 24 months, then it will not have a Review Score.

Child Vacancies

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Awards / Recognitions (1)

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Meet the Team (2)

Emily

Emily

Job Title: Nursery Manager

Joined: 2015

Hello!


I'm Emily, the nursery manager here at Rothwell. I began working at Stepping Stones in March 2015 as a Nursery Practitioner, after a brief time away from the company to manage at another setting, I returned to Stepping Stones Rothwell in May 2021.


I hold a BTEC Level 3 in Children’s Care Learning and Development as well as a Certificate of Higher Education in Childhood Studies meaning I am level 4 qualified. I have certificates in Paediatric First Aid and I am also the named Designated Safeguarding Lead.


I am so passionate about the Nursery and want to ensure all the things we do and provide for the children make every single day amazing as I find it fascinating that we could be caring for a future Astronaut, Teacher, Doctor or Singer. I believe that every child should be given the best start in life and we are one of the stepping stones to help them on their way!


 


Shelley

Shelley

Job Title: Deputy Manager

Joined: 2020

I began working at Stepping Stones in June 2020 and have over 20 years of experience in the Early Years sector. I hold a Level 3 in Children’s Care Learning and Development and attend regular training in Paediatric First Aid and Safeguarding. I am also the SEND Co-ordinator of the setting and hold a Level 3 Award for Early Years SEN.


I love being messy and creative and thinking outside of the box for wonderful activities for our children to participate in. I understand that every child is different and should all be treated as individuals to get the most out of their development and their learning journey whilst with us at nursery.