Step Start Mountnessing

281 Roman Road, Mountnessing, Brentwood CM15 0UH
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9.9 78 Reviews
  • Step Start Mountnessing, Brentwood
Step Start Mountnessing has been purpose-built to deliver the best in education and care to all of children in their care. Core values include education, care and exploration.

At Step Start, there is a true dedication to the development of each child through curriculum, enthusiastic staff and a strong parent partnership.                        

The nursery is always full of exciting adventures for children to learn through interactive play, enjoying every minute of the day!

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Care Provided by Step Start Mountnessing

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

Good to Know

  • Person in charge
  • Sarah Goddard (Manager)
  • Number of Childcare Staff
  • 22
  • Total Places for Children
  • 70
  • Age Range
    • from 0 years 2 months
    • to 5 years 0 months
  • Opening Times
  • Monday 07:00-18:00
    Tuesday 07:00-18:00
    Wednesday 07:00-18:00
    Thursday 07:00-18:00
    Friday 07:00-18:00
  • When Closed
  • Bank Holidays & Christmas

Funding & Fees Guide for Step Start Mountnessing

  • Please contact the nursery for information on their latest fees. 15 and 30 hours funding accepted including the new funding.

Step Start Mountnessing Reviews (78)

Total of 78, showing 21-40
9.9

Step Start Mountnessing has a Review Score of 9.9 (9.932) out of 10, based on 32 reviews in the last 2 years. Over all time Step Start Mountnessing has 78 reviews.

Overall Experience

  • 73
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Review from Chloe H (Mother of Child) published on 11 April 2023
Submitted via Website • Report

Overall Experience  Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5

I can’t recommend Step Start Mountnessing highly enough. Starting nursery can be a very anxious time and from the moment I met with the manager for a tour of the nursery I felt at ease. My daughter has settled in amazingly, she loves her time at nursery. The staff are so kind, caring and professional.

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Review from A B (Mother of Child) published on 11 April 2023
Submitted via Website • Report

Overall Experience  Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5

My daughter has been going to Step Start since she was 13 months old, and the nursery has been amazing with her. She is now four and will be leaving soon to go to school. We will all be sad when she leaves, as it has been her second home where she feels so loved and safe! She loves going here and has
made some amazing friends. The teachers and management team have been incredible. The support they gave throughout the pandemic and how they handled the situation was brilliant and accommodating. My daughter has learned so much from the nursery, and they have really moulded her into the happy, bright young girl she is now. She’s so ready for school, and most of this is down to the teachers at Step Start! The best decision we made was to send her here!

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Review from L W (Mother of Child) published on 11 April 2023
Submitted via Website • Report

Overall Experience  Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5

We have two children at Step Start and would highly recommend anyone looking for a nursery for their children. Both of our children struggled when they initially started nursery, but the staff handled the difficult situation so well, and they began to thrive very quickly. The staff are very kind and
lots of fun. I’ll be sad when the time comes to leave.

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Review from Holly W (Mother of Child) published on 11 April 2023
Submitted via Website • Report

Overall Experience  Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5

Step Start is a great nursery. My little girl goes one day a week for the last seven months and seems so happy when I drop her off and pick her up. No faults at all and all the staff are really lovely.
Thank you.

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Review from Matt D (Father of Child) published on 11 April 2023
Submitted via Website • Report

Overall Experience  Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5

Our son, who is two, attends three days a week and absolutely loves all the staff and children. The staff are absolutely brilliant, and couldn't recommend this nursery highly enough.
His confidence since being at the nursery has grown so much, and he's developing brilliantly as well.
Big thank you
to everyone in the little leaps room.

Reply from Stuart Cloke, Nursery Manager at Step Start Mountnessing

Thank you so very much. This is lovely and wonderful to read. Such kind words!


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Review from Carla F (Mother of Child) published on 11 April 2023
Submitted via Website • Report

Overall Experience  Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5

My son has attended Step Start since six months old. I have never felt anxious about leaving my son, even at a young age. He settled in so well and really loves some of the staff. He is a particularly clingy boy and doesn’t cry when I drop him off. He is bright and speaks so well, and even sometimes
counts, and he is not even two yet. I would (if I had any more) send all my children to this nursery. They are professional, kind and caring and help build great routines in the kids' lives, helping working mums to stick to a routine. Really great nursery.

Reply from Stuart Cloke, Nursery Manager at Step Start Mountnessing

Hello! Wow, what a fantastic review. We couldn't be happier, and it means so much!


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Review from S C (Mother of Child) published on 11 April 2023
Submitted via Website • Report

Overall Experience  Overall Experience 4.0 out of 5

Two of my children have attended Step Start, and my third is on the waiting list as I have had a great experience sending my children there. The staff are always so helpful, enthusiastic and attentive. The food is very healthy and varied, and the activities are great.
Clean environment.
Can't fault
it really.

Reply from Stuart Cloke, Nursery Manager at Step Start Mountnessing

We are so happy to have supported you as a family for many years! We cannot wait to continue on this journey with you.


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Review from S S (Mother of Child) published on 11 April 2023
Submitted via Website • Report

Overall Experience  Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5

This nursery has been so welcoming to me and my son, and he has fitted in so well and has been made to feel so welcoming by all. The staff are very lovely and welcoming and are always happy to help you - I 100% recommend the nursery.

Reply from Stuart Cloke, Nursery Manager at Step Start Mountnessing

Thank you! A very kind and thoughtful review, and such lovely words to read!


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Review from Lauren G (Mother of Child) published on 11 April 2023
Submitted via Website • Report

Overall Experience  Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5

Being a new Mum, I was feeling really anxious about choosing the right setting for my child when it was time for me to go back to work. I am so happy with my choice of Step Start. I cannot find fault. I feel confident dropping my son there. He has come on so far thanks to the love and support the staff
give to him. So much so that I have recently requested a second day for my son to go to nursery. I would highly recommend it.

Reply from Stuart Cloke, Nursery Manager at Step Start Mountnessing

We are glad you chose us too! We love having you all here and seeing them grow each day! Thank you!


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Review from Sonja K (Mother of Child) published on 11 April 2023
Submitted via Website • Report

Overall Experience  Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5

I've only got positive things to say! The communication from the nursery has always been very good - the app is very good, and I love to see what my child has been up to, what he's eaten, toileting etc. They have been very good with his vegan food too! The options he gets are amazing! If there's anything
that involves non-vegan foods - like Easter egg hunts etc, my son will always be provided with a yummy vegan alternative, so I can't thank them enough for that! They very often spend time outdoors, which is very good to see. Every time I drop off or collect my son, all the children seem very busy with activities and very happy. Children's needs always come first! They get lots of cuddles if they ever need comfort and support!

Reply from Stuart Cloke, Nursery Manager at Step Start Mountnessing

What a fantastic review! We are so pleased you are pleased, and it's made our day! Thank you once again.


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Review from L T (Mother of Child) published on 11 April 2023
Submitted via Website • Report

Overall Experience  Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5

Step Start Mountnessing is a fantastic nursery that really cares about the well-being of the children. They provide thoughtful activities and regular updates to parents and clearly are really passionate about the level of care they provide.

Reply from Stuart Cloke, Nursery Manager at Step Start Mountnessing

Wow, thank you so much for the thoughtful review! It really does mean a lot and cements the reasons why we do this job.


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Review from Sadie M (Mother of Child) published on 11 April 2023
Submitted via Website • Report

Overall Experience  Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5

Really friendly team, feel my child is in safe hands. They have good communication and always keep us up to date on the app.
The nursery itself is warm and welcoming, with lots for the children to do and explore!

Reply from Stuart Cloke, Nursery Manager at Step Start Mountnessing

Thank you so much for this lovely review! It's wonderful to read.


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Review from Ashley G (Mother of Child) published on 21 February 2023
Submitted via Website • Report

Overall Experience  Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5

The nursery team go above and beyond for the children in their care. As a child with additional needs, it is even more daunting sending them somewhere for others to care for and support. We see for ourselves how good the relationships between staff and children are, and this is further confirmed to
us by professionals who visit and support our boy at the nursery.

Reply from Stuart Cloke, Nursery Manager at Step Start Mountnessing

Thank you for taking the time for this lovely review.
We are so happy you are happy with your experience. We are in the process of a garden revamp, and we would love your feedback!


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Review from P V (Mother of Child) published on 20 January 2023
Submitted via Website • Report

Overall Experience  Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5

We have had a brilliant experience with Step Start since our eldest daughter joined nearly three years ago. The staff and management have been extremely supportive from the very beginning with her special needs and have been key in her development over the years. Our youngest daughter now attends and
absolutely loves school and her teachers. They enjoy the creativity and fun every day. Two ladies in Big Steps have been particularly amazing, patient and supportive.

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Review from Abby R (Mother of Child) published on 20 January 2023
Submitted via Website • Report

Overall Experience  Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5

My son has been going to Step Start since November 2022. The staff are so lovely and welcoming and made me feel good when dropping him off, knowing he was with people who are caring and loving. My son is always asking for the girls that work in that room. The management team are so lovely, especially
the room leader in his room, who always looks out for him.

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Review from S N (Mother of Child) published on 1 December 2021
Submitted via Website • Report

Overall Experience  Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5

My daughter has attended Step Start since the baby room and is currently in the toddler's room.
She has loved every room and transitioned with ease due to the lovely support from the staff and the calm environment and familiar routines.
Unfortunately, she will be leaving, but this is such an excellent
nursery I felt the need to express my gratitude. I highly recommend this nursery to parents who may be looking for a setting. I viewed a handful of nurseries that just didn't meet my expectations.
This all changed the moment I viewed Step Start, and we never looked back!
I love the app, easy to use to contact staff, and it's fantastic to receive updates and observations during the day. Nutritious meals, a garden area smaller than most but always full of activities, and my daughter is still small, so to her, it must look huge!
Overall, a fantastic nursery in a lovely suburban village. Keep up the good work, Step Start Mountnessing.

Reply from Stuart Cloke, Nursery Manager at Step Start Mountnessing

Thank you so much! We will miss you all so much!
This review has made our day.


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Review from Rose G (Mother of Child) published on 30 June 2021
Submitted via Website • Report

Overall Experience  Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5

We have been so impressed with Step Start and the staff in the two years our son has been attending. Everyone has been caring and passionate about their work with the children, and although he only attended one day a week, he would spend the rest of the week singing songs or picking up on themes he
had learnt whilst there.
The app used was a great way for us to see how well he was doing, not only in learning development but also with what he ate and when he slept, which made it easy to follow this on at home. We were able to share things from home on it too.
Overall, we would thoroughly recommend this nursery to anyone in the area searching for a place for their child.

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Review from Amy W (Mother of Child) published on 24 June 2021
Submitted via Website • Report

Overall Experience  Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5

I cannot recommend Step Start enough. They are an outstanding nursery, who throughout the whole pandemic, worked extremely hard and provided the best possible care. My son's confidence, social skills and speech have come on leaps and bounds, which has helped provide a smooth transition for him as he
is now settling very well into a new nursery. If I could, I would send him back to Step Start in a heartbeat.

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Review from Janine L (Mother of Child) published on 20 March 2021
Submitted via Website • Report

Overall Experience  Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5

I found Step Start Mountnessing online after a huge online search of all the nurseries in the area. After contacting Step Start Mountnessing, they got back to me straight away and sent me through all of the documentation. Due to Covid-19 we weren't able to do a physical tour of the nursery but the video
and click through tours were fantastic. Our son started at the beginning of March and we are so pleased with the care and nurturing he has received so far and we can already see improvements in his communication skills. The staff in the first steps team always greet you with a smile, are knowledgeable and you can see that they genuinely love what they do. It is also so handy to see what he has gotten up to through the app they use. I couldn't have found a better nursery for my son, he is in great hands! I'm also slightly jealous of what he gets to eat everyday!

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Review from Alison T (Mother of Child) published on 24 January 2021
Submitted via Website • Report

Overall Experience  Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5

We unexpectedly moved into the area during the first lockdown of 2020, which meant we needed to secure childcare without being able to physically visit the setting or meet any staff beforehand. Step Start went out of their way to make us as informed and comfortable as possible and helped our daughter
settle quickly into her first nursery environment. I'm so delighted we chose Step Start - the development in our daughter over the last 6 months has been phenomenal, the staff are fantastic, and the Famly app provides excellent peace of mind to parents. I've lost count of the number of times my daughter has cried when I come to collect her at the end of the day as she doesn't want to come home!

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Current Review Score: 9.9 (9.932)

Overview of Review Score

The Review Score of 9.9 (9.932) out of 10 for Step Start Mountnessing 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 32 Reviews in the last 24 months.

  • b) The score for the number of positive Reviews is 5.0 out of 5 from 32 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 4.932 for Step Start Mountnessing is calculated as follows: ( (356 Excellents x 5) + (26 Goods x 4) ) ÷ 382 Ratings = 4.932

  • 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 Step Start Mountnessing is based on 32 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 70 number of registered child places is 14, which has been reached with 32 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 (6)

Sarah

Sarah Goddard

Job Title: Head of Early Years Education

Joined: 2021

I have worked in both schools and nurseries and can most certainly say that I adore my job and my role. I'm enormously passionate about SEN and providing children who need a little more help with the pathways to succeed by championing inclusive practice and striving for success with all children. I love being a leader at Step Start because it supports my progression and long-term career plans with many exciting opportunities.


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Madison Wright

Job Title: Deputy Head of Early Years Education

Joined: 2024

Ellie

Ellie Butt

Job Title: Starting Steps Room Co-ordinator

Joined: 2019

I have been qualified since 2018 and have worked my way up to Room Manager at Step Start. I'm passionate, dedicated and enthusiastic about high-quality teaching and learning and really enjoy being a leader to support and guide staff, listen and advise and most importantly have fun! I love being in the sector as the phrase "no two days are the same" is so true!


Joanne

Joanne Hinks

Job Title: First Steps Room Co-ordinator

Joined: 2020

I have been in the sector for over 10 years and have two children myself. I achieved a level 3 in my Early Years and looking into doing my level 5 in leadership and management. I wanted to move into leadership to help inspire the next wave of early years practitioners and develop my confidence in my role.


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Kaci Edwards

Job Title: Little Leaps Room Co-ordinator

Joined: 2023

Lauren

Lauren Shepheard

Job Title: Big Steps Room Co-ordinator

Joined: 2020

I have a level 3 in early years practice and can honestly say, that the children are at the heart of all I do! Interactive storytimes, yoga and Makaton are my passions and I moved into a leadership role to ensure my staffing team are just as passionate and dedicated and we can all thrive together!


Information on this page is displayed without responsibility for its accuracy on the part of daynurseries.co.uk. Please contact Step Start Mountnessing to verify any information. View our terms and conditions. Step Start Mountnessing has a Platinum Service – more info.