Arcadia @ Kings Buildings

Kings Buildings, University of Edinburgh, Max Born Crescent, Edinburgh EH9 3BF
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9.8 19 Reviews
  • Arcadia @ Kings Buildings, Edinburgh
Arcadia is a purpose-designed nursery, opened in 2014, designed by award-winning architect Malcolm Fraser. Established to give early years children an ideal setting in which they can learn and develop. The design is based on supporting free play and giving children the chance to learn new skills and interests. As well as light, bright and flexible internal spaces Arcadia Kings Building has large outdoor spaces for children to grow and learn.

Meals are enjoyed in an open plan shared dining space and are freshly prepared each day by chefs.

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Care Provided by Arcadia @ Kings Buildings

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

Good to Know

  • Person in charge
  • Vivi Koumati (Manager)
  • Number of Childcare Staff
  • 28
  • Total Places for Children
  • 113
  • Age Range
    • from 0 years 3 months
    • to 5 years 0 months
  • Opening Times
  • Monday 07:30-18:00
    Tuesday 07:30-18:00
    Wednesday 07:30-18:00
    Thursday 07:30-18:00
    Friday 07:30-18:00
  • When Closed
  • 2 weeks at Christmas & 3 In Service Days

Funding & Fees Guide for Arcadia @ Kings Buildings

  • Our fees include all meals, snacks, nappies and wipes.
    £63 per session 7.30am-6pm.

  • In partnership with Edinburgh City Council, 1140 hours funded places are also available.

Arcadia @ Kings Buildings Reviews (19)

9.8

Arcadia @ Kings Buildings has a Review Score of 9.8 (9.775) out of 10, based on 19 reviews in the last 2 years. Over all time Arcadia @ Kings Buildings has 19 reviews.

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Review from Prema H (Mother of Child) published on 9 September 2024
Submitted via Website • Report

Overall Experience  Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5

Our baby had a tough time settling, but the team worked patiently with us and him to ensure his comfort and incorporation into the routine there. He absolutely loves the team there now and won't even let me kiss him goodbye anymore as he just wants to jump out of the car to get there faster. He was
always reluctant to leave our side, so this is a huge change for him and one that wouldn't have happened without the excellence of the team and environment there! Care is also given to manage our son's allergies, and there is a process in place to help manage flare-ups, monitor conditions and administer prescribed supplies. Food is prepared on-site, so can be customised for individual allergy needs. The team are friendly and professional and while they are very much child-first (as they should be!), they also respect the concerns of parents and work with them to overcome what is needed for the benefit of the child. We recommend Arcadia Kings Buildings and give a special shout out to the team there!

Reply from Laura Brownlee, Head of Nursery Operations at Arcadia @ Kings Buildings

On behalf of Team KB, we can't thank you enough for such a wonderful review. We are so happy that you and your family are having such a positive experience with us.


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Review from Daniela I (Mother of Child) published on 4 September 2024
Submitted via Website • Report

Overall Experience  Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5

We enrolled our son at Arcadia Nursery nine months ago when he was still very young (younger than most would expect, but circumstances did not leave us much choice). Looking back, it was the best decision we could have made. The facilities are amazing, and the staff is genuinely dedicated to each child's
well-being and development. As two foreigners with demanding jobs and no family nearby, we were worried about starting nursery so early. But with short maternity leave and no extra help, it was our only option. Thankfully, he quickly bonded with his nanny and the staff, which was a relief (though I'll admit I felt a bit jealous!). The social interaction and gentle peer pressure have helped his development too; he has even hit some milestones early. Arcadia has become like an extended family for us, and we're incredibly thankful for the care they've provided to our son (and, by extension, to us). We highly recommend Arcadia Nursery. They've been a real lifesaver.

Reply from Laura Brownlee, Head of Nursery Operations at Arcadia @ Kings Buildings

On behalf of Everyone at Arcadia, we are glad to hear how well your son is doing at nursery, thank you very much for your kind words. We appreciate you taking the time to give us such positive feedback.


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Review from Dominika B (Mother of Child) published on 8 March 2024
Submitted via Website • Report

Overall Experience  Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5

I cannot speak highly enough of the outstanding care and support provided by the dedicated staff. From the moment we enrolled our child, it was evident that Arcadia Nursery is committed to meeting the individual needs of each child in their care. One of the most impressive aspects of Arcadia Nursery
is its dedication to working closely with parents. The staff communicates openly and regularly, ensuring that parents are kept informed and involved in their child's experiences and progress. What truly sets Arcadia Nursery apart is its genuine commitment to understanding and nurturing each child's unique personality, interests, and developmental milestones. The staff creates a nurturing and stimulating environment where children feel safe, valued, and encouraged to explore and learn. We are grateful for the caring staff who go above and beyond to support our child's growth and development. We feel fortunate to be part of such a wonderful community.

Reply from Laura Brownlee, Head of Nursery Operations at Arcadia @ Kings Buildings

Thank you! This review really means a lot to the team at Arcadia @ Kings Buildings, we are very thankful to have such a great team and for them to be recognised is lovely. We are glad you have had such a positive experience with us.


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Review from A J (Father of Child) published on 8 March 2024
Submitted via Website • Report

Overall Experience  Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5

I have 2 children who have attended Arcadia @ Kings Buildings and I am very happy with the nursery. In all rooms, the staff are friendly and pleasant and give great communication about my child. Both children developed excellent relationships with staff members who are fully invested in the children
and making sure they learn and have fun throughout the day.

Reply from Laura Brownlee, Head of Nursery Operations at Arcadia @ Kings Buildings

Many thanks for taking the time to leave us such a kind review, we really appreciate it.


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Review from Carolyn N (Mother of Child) published on 7 March 2024
Submitted via Website • Report

Overall Experience  Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5

Have nothing negative to say about this nursery. My daughter has thrived there and loves it. Menus are excellent, really great experience of foods and textures, the facilities are always clean, staff always friendly and approachable. Most importantly my little girl has her needs met and there is regular
communication about her day (nappies/seep/food eaten etc). She comes home happy and clean and we have peace of mind that she’s been well looked after in the best facilities. Opening hours are good for the 8am working parents and the price includes everything which is superb.

Reply from Laura Brownlee, Head of Nursery Operations at Arcadia @ Kings Buildings

From the whole team at Arcadia Kings Buildings, we want to thank you for your kind review, we really appreciate it.


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Review from M C (Father of Child) published on 7 March 2024
Submitted via Website • Report

Overall Experience  Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5

A truly great nursery - the staff are attentive and confident, treat each child with respect and ensure their development needs are met, all whilst providing a fun environment for the children. We find all of the staff pragmatic and helpful - allowing us more predictably in our child care schedule which
is incredibly important. In summary, great staff make a great nursery setting.

Reply from Laura Brownlee, Head of Nursery Operations at Arcadia @ Kings Buildings

Many thanks for taking time to leave such a lovely review. We are glad you have had such a positive experience with us and are thankful to have such a great team at Arcadia Kings Buildings.


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Review from H S (Father of Child) published on 5 March 2024
Submitted via Website • Report

Overall Experience  Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5

My son really enjoys his time at nursery. He has made some great friends and has a great bond with the majority of the staff. The staff are always very friendly, polite and really care about my son. The activities for him are stimulating and varied. The building is modern, clean, and the outdoor area
great for his needs.

Reply from Laura Brownlee, Head of Nursery Operations at Arcadia @ Kings Buildings

Thank you very much for taking time to leave such a lovely review, we really appreciate the feedback.


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Review from F C (Father of Child) published on 29 February 2024
Submitted via Website • Report

Overall Experience  Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5

Daughter took a while to settle and staff where patient and kind while she adjusted. Good food choices with many options. She looks forward to going now and we will be sending our son when he's old enough.

Reply from Laura Brownlee, Head of Nursery Operations at Arcadia @ Kings Buildings

Thank you for taking the time to leave our Kings Buildings Nursery such a kind review.


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Review from Jen L (Mother of Child) published on 29 February 2024
Submitted via Website • Report

Overall Experience  Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5

We have four children, all of whom have attended or are still attending Arcadia @ Kings Buildings. The staff are extremely friendly and invested in the children’s development. We have been given advice on how to further support our children at home and receive regular feedback (online and in person)
re. our child’s day at nursery.
The building itself is amazing with great space indoors and outdoors.

Reply from Laura Brownlee, Head of Nursery Operations at Arcadia @ Kings Buildings

On behalf of everyone at Kings Buildings, we would like to thank you for taking the time to leave such a lovely review!


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Review from N B (Mother of Child) published on 29 February 2024
Submitted via Website • Report

Overall Experience  Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5

My son has been in this nursery for three months in the Harmony Room and my experience has been great. He has settled in very quickly in comparison to my other child at a different nursery a few years ago. The staff are very friendly and helpful to not only me but my son as well. He is in every day
and seems to have a great experience every day with various resources available in the room and the food that is offered being different every day. He happily walks in by himself every morning to enthusiastic and happy staff. The building being purpose-built as a nursery is part of what drew me to enquiring for a position before I needed the nursery as there is access straight to the garden which is advantageous (although so far no opportunity to be used due to the weather). I am looking forward to many more months of great experiences for both my son and me, as a parent, in the support that he receives.

Reply from Laura Brownlee, Head of Nursery Operations at Arcadia @ Kings Buildings

We are so happy to hear that the transition period was such a positive experience. Many thanks for your lovely review.


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Review from Martine M (Mother of Child) published on 29 February 2024
Submitted via Website • Report

Overall Experience  Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5

Child-centred environment where practitioners are both supportive and nurturing of my child’s needs. Staff have worked so hard to make transitions between nursery rooms as smooth as possible for my son as he has grown. My son loves the play spaces and wonderful garden area. He thrives with the opportunities
provided to him to develop independence and learning practical skills (tidying up, keeping his drawings in his own personal storage tray, baking, helping out in daily tasks/routines). We are also looking forward to our son attending nature school next year with the pre-schoolers. Such a wonderful opportunity.
The feedback I receive from nursery practitioners is always so thoughtful and it’s clear that my child is well cared for. Our family love Arcadia @ Kings Buildings.

Reply from Laura Brownlee, Head of Nursery Operations at Arcadia @ Kings Buildings

From the whole team at Kings Buildings, we can't thank you enough for such a positive review!


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Review from Ben M (Father of Child) published on 29 February 2024
Submitted via Website • Report

Overall Experience  Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5

Our daughter has been there for nearly two years now. She took longer than most to settle, during quite a long period, all the staff were so incredibly patient and caring towards her. Since then, she has come to really love nursery, the constant fun and engagement with the warm carers and children.
The nursery facilities are beyond what we could have hoped for, I remember walking around there for the first time thinking I wish I could regress to being a 2-year-old. It is just so cool with the different levels, areas and the modern/nature-filled outdoor space. The open-plan kitchen dining area is also super cool, reminds me of a Michelin-star dining experience. There are just so many small things that the nursery does to help the children and spark joy (e.g. free fruit on the way home, great homemade decorations). Overall, it is always going to be hard to drop your child off while you work but given how amazing this place is, it makes it a little less so.

Reply from Laura Brownlee, Head of Nursery Operations at Arcadia @ Kings Buildings

We are really happy you and your family are having such a positive experience with us and thank you for taking the time to share.


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Review from Milena N (Mother of Child) published on 29 February 2024
Submitted via Website • Report

Overall Experience  Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5

A joyful journey: nursery review for our 1.5-year-old
Enrolling our little one at Arcadia @ Kings Buildings when he was just 10 months old has been an immensely rewarding decision. The nurturing environment and dedicated staff have played a pivotal role in his growth and development. From the outset,
the caregivers welcomed him with open arms, fostering a sense of belonging and security. The facilities are thoughtfully designed, providing ample opportunities for exploration and learning. We're impressed by the diverse curriculum, which includes enriching activities tailored to his age and interests. Communication with the staff is seamless and we appreciate the regular updates on his progress. Overall, Arcadia has exceeded our expectations, providing a loving and stimulating environment that has truly become a second home for our little one. Highly recommended!

Reply from Laura Brownlee, Head of Nursery Operations at Arcadia @ Kings Buildings

From everyone at Kings Buildings Nursery, we would like to thank you for such kind feedback.


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Review from Andrew M (Father of Child) published on 28 February 2024
Submitted via Website • Report

Overall Experience  Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5

My wife and I have had three children at Arcadia @ Kings Buildings and they have all loved it.
Each of our children is different, with our two girls spending four years at Arcadia, enjoying the variety of indoor and outdoor activities and building strong bonds with staff. They still like to pop in
to pick up their brother and see the staff.
Our youngest has learning difficulties and had very significant, additional medical requirements, having had heart and lung issues. Nothing was too much trouble for the team at Arcadia, we have felt our boy has been loved and supported throughout.
Thanks to the team at Arcadia.

Reply from Laura Brownlee, Head of Nursery Operations at Arcadia @ Kings Buildings

Many thanks from the whole team at Kings Building for your lovely feedback, we really appreciate it!


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Review from Mark W (Father of Child) published on 28 February 2024
Submitted via Website • Report

Overall Experience  Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5

We are delighted with the staff and environment at Arcadia @ Kings Buildings. Our child is excited to go there every day. He comes home full of stories, things to share and craft projects. The staff are welcoming and treat the children with such kindness and care. They cultivate curiosity and are helping
to prepare the children for school (and life!)
The nursery is colourful, with many different areas and environments, inside and out, and lots of toys and activities. The children are encouraged to play in a sharing manner. The chef and team in the kitchen prepare healthy and apparently, tasty food (it certainly smells good!) and are careful to ensure children with special requirements are accommodated without discrimination.
We have loved our experience with Arcadia - the staff, in particular, are very special - and we'll be sad to leave when our child graduates to primary school.

Reply from Laura Brownlee, Head of Nursery Operations at Arcadia @ Kings Buildings

From everyone at Kings Building, we really appreciate this lovely feedback! We are also sad when graduation comes round but we promise to give the children the best send-off into their next adventure.


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Review from Melanie B (Mother of Child) published on 28 February 2024
Submitted via Website • Report

Overall Experience  Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5

We love Arcadia @ Kings Buildings and our son loves it too! The staff are wonderful and know the children really well. Forest school and birthday cake making are particular highlights. The building is brilliant with loads of outdoor space. Can't wait for the littlest to get started!

Reply from Laura Brownlee, Head of Nursery Operations at Arcadia @ Kings Buildings

We really appreciate you taking the time to leave us such a lovely review.


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Review from Miriam K (Mother of Child) published on 28 February 2024
Submitted via Website • Report

Overall Experience  Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5

We have been continually impressed by the care exercised by Arcadia staff from when our daughter started in August 2023. The facilities are always clean, and the staff are welcoming and take great care in fostering an environment of sensible routine, nutritious meals and nurturing play and development.
Our daughter has a food allergy, and the detailed execution of her care plan is always evident to ensure that she is safe and well and always offered a valued alternative when fed.
I have also been impressed that every staff member (including those based in different rooms, administrative and catering) all seem to know her name and say hello to her when we enter/exit the building.
We have all had such a positive experience at Arcadia, and I am grateful to every staff member who makes it such a wonderful place for the children and their carers.

Reply from Laura Brownlee, Head of Nursery Operations at Arcadia @ Kings Buildings

We would like to thank you very much for such a lovely review of our team at Kings Building.


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Review from K W (Mother of Child) published on 2 October 2023
Submitted via Website • Report

Overall Experience  Overall Experience 4.0 out of 5

My preschool aged daughter loves coming to nursery, she has made some great friends and has really strong bonds with some of the team which really means a lot as a parent. She has been at Arcadia since she was 1 year old and feels totally comfortable, if anything too comfortable! But it gives me peace
of mind that she is happy and thriving while at nursery.
Everything is included for the price too which means it is really good value for money.

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Review from Megan K (Mother of Child) published on 21 August 2023
Submitted via Website • Report

Overall Experience  Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5

Son has attended Arcadia Kings Buildings for 18 months now and we could not be happier with the place. The facilities are excellent, spacious, clean, safe and garden area is ideal for kids. The staff are very kind and considerate, they make a big effort with parents and the kids. Having cooks at the
nursery is excellent as we know our son is eating fresh and healthy meals. Would always recommend this nursery as we’ve had a brilliant experience.

Reply from Laura Brownlee, Head of Nursery Operations at Arcadia @ Kings Buildings

We really appreciate your kind feedback. Thank you.


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Current Review Score: 9.8 (9.775)

Overview of Review Score

The Review Score of 9.8 (9.775) out of 10 for Arcadia @ Kings Buildings 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 19 Reviews in the last 24 months.

  • b) The score for the number of positive Reviews is 4.8 out of 5 from 19 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 4.934 for Arcadia @ Kings Buildings is calculated as follows: ( (215 Excellents x 5) + (11 Goods x 4) + (2 Satisfactorys x 3) ) ÷ 228 Ratings = 4.934

  • 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 4.841 Points relating to the number of positive Reviews for Arcadia @ Kings Buildings is based on 19 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 113 number of registered child places is 22.6. 19 Positive Reviews ÷ 22.6 = 0.841

  • 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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Meet the Team (1)

Vivi

Vivi Koumati

Job Title: Nursery Manager

Joined: 2023

Our Kings Building Nursery is a large 113-place setting and is managed by Vivi Koumati.


Vivi has vast experience in leadership roles and has over 12 years of experience in Early Childhood Education. Vivi holds a PDA in Childhood Practice as well as a speech and language diploma.


Vivi ensures she supports her whole team to deliver the best outcomes for the children in their care, with the child at the centre of all they do.


Frequently Asked Questions about Arcadia @ Kings Buildings

What is the Age Range of Children that Arcadia @ Kings Buildings accepts?

Arcadia @ Kings Buildings accepts Children aged from 0 years 3 months to 5 years 0 months.

What Days & Hours is Arcadia @ Kings Buildings Open?

Arcadia @ Kings Buildings is open: Monday 07:30-18:00, Tuesday 07:30-18:00, Wednesday 07:30-18:00, Thursday 07:30-18:00, Friday 07:30-18:00.

How many Children does Arcadia @ Kings Buildings have capacity for?

Arcadia @ Kings Buildings has capacity for a total of 113 Children.

How far is Arcadia @ Kings Buildings to the centre of Edinburgh?

1.8 mile(s) as the crow flies, distance by road may be significantly further.

Information on this page is displayed without responsibility for its accuracy on the part of daynurseries.co.uk. Please contact Arcadia @ Kings Buildings to verify any information. View our terms and conditions. Arcadia @ Kings Buildings has an Enhanced Service – more info.