The Early Years Academy Derby

135 Duffield Road, Derby DE22 1AF
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10 46 Reviews
  • The Early Years Academy Derby, Derby
The Early Years Academy puts the children at the forefront of everything they do!

The Early Years Academy believes that in order for children to learn and thrive they must first be happy, engaged, and motivated for thinking (learning) to occur.  

The Early Years Academy aims to create awe and wonder in every moment, providing environments that become alive with possibilities. Opening the world to children through enriched natural environments that teach each child to enjoy being in the moment; a moment that will never be again. Ensuring that each child has a strong sense of belonging builds a foundation for well-being, and becomes all that they can be through environments that are full of play, learning, and adventure. 

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Care Provided by The Early Years Academy Derby

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

Good to Know

  • Person in charge
  • Maggie Bellamy (Manager)
  • Number of Childcare Staff
  • 40
  • Total Places for Children
  • 104
  • 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
  • Public Holidays & 1 week between Christmas & New Year

Funding & Fees Guide for The Early Years Academy Derby

  • £42.00 Morning and Afternoon sessions
    £74.00 Full Day
    £69.00 10 hour day
    £66.00 9 hour day
    £63.85 8 hour day

  • Fees are reviewed annually and remain competitive. A 10% discounted rate is applied to all full-time fees. 1-week holiday discount.
  • Parking

  • Limited parking spaces to the rear of the nursery.


The Early Years Academy Derby Reviews (46)

Total of 46, showing 1-20
10

The Early Years Academy Derby has a Review Score of 10 (9.950) out of 10, based on 32 reviews in the last 2 years. Over all time The Early Years Academy Derby has 46 reviews.

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Review from Heidi O (Mother of Child) published on 18 March 2025
Submitted via Website • Report

Overall Experience  Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5

Excellent nursery setting & staff that go above and beyond for the children in their care. My daughter is very happy here.
Excellent facilities especially the forest school scheme in preschool led by a fantastic staff member.

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Review from Barbara F (Mother of Child) published on 18 March 2025
Submitted via Website • Report

Overall Experience  Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5

very nice and family atmosphere, employees with a smile on their face, always willing to help. children happy and joyful under the care of teachers,I recommend with a clear conscience, my son always came back with a new experience, full of smiles and satisfaction

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Review from Sabine L (Mother of Child) published on 12 March 2025
Submitted via Website • Report

Overall Experience  Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5

I walked round various nurseries while heavily pregnant, but when I walked into EYA I knew it was the one. A vivid memory is a child running up to the carer who was showing me around and giving her a massive hug. All of the nursery staff are so friendly and professional. My daughter has been going
from 9 months starting in the baby room and slowly transitioning to the toddler room and she is so excited each day to go and see her friends and the lovely staff. She absolutely loves it there and we love her being there, safe in the knowledge she's learning and having fun.

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Review from C J (Father of Child) published on 6 March 2025
Submitted via Website • Report

Overall Experience  Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5

My son has attended The Early Years Academy since October 2024 and he settled instantly with the support of the baby room team. We received lots of feedback on his day during his settling in period, and have since seen lots of photos and observations which are really reassuring. We always get a warm
welcome into the nursery & have no regrets in choosing EYA for our son.

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Review from Oliwia D (Mother of Child) published on 5 March 2025
Submitted via Website • Report

Overall Experience  Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5

My little lad has just started at the early years academy he's in the 2 year toddler group.I was so worried in finding a nursery for him to make sure it suits the both of us but the early years academy have been so amazing and supportive.
The first time speaking to them over the phone to try and arrange
a viewing was outstanding and made me feel so at ease , i just knew then this was going to be the place for my little lad. so friendly and welcoming. Ever since he had started they've welcomed us with warmth and happiness it truly feels like a second home. They really do care for every child that attends. with regular updates throughout the day i have no worries leaving my little lad with them. the staff have really made him come out of his shell as he's a really shy boy. We both love this nursery and would recommend it to parents without a doubt. All the staff are truly amazing , kind and caring.
The whole nursery is beautiful, clean and well maintained, with healthy meals. ThankYou!

Reply from Sophie McCluskey, Director at The Early Years Academy Derby

Thank you for your wonderful review! We're so happy to hear that both you and your little lad feel welcome and supported at The Early Years Academy.Choosing the right nursery is a big decision, and we're delighted that from your first call, you felt reassured. It's fantastic to hear that our team has made the transition smooth and that your son is growing in confidence. Watching children flourish is what we love most!We're also pleased that our updates give you peace of mind. Your kind words about our staff, environment, and meals mean so much. Thank you for your recommendation!Thank you for your kind words about our staff, environment, and meals. Your recommendation means the world to us!


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Review from Philip B (Father of Child) published on 4 March 2025
Submitted via Website • Report

Overall Experience  Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5

Excellent nursery with exceptional caring and patient staff. I can't recommend the place enough. My son loves the place and the people (and the food). When we visited when deciding you could instantly tell from the way the children were how happy they all were being there.

Reply from Sophie McCluskey, Director at The Early Years Academy Derby

Thank you so much for your kind words! It truly means the world to us to hear how much your son loves his time at The Early Years Academy. Our team is passionate about creating a nurturing, engaging, and happy environment for every child, and it's wonderful to know that this shone through from the moment you visited.Hearing that your little one enjoys not just the activities and the wonderful team but also our freshly prepared meals is the icing on the cake! We take great pride in ensuring every child feels at home here, and your feedback reassures us that we're achieving that goal.Thank you for trusting us with your son's early years-we love being a part of his journey!


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Review from A A (Mother of Child) published on 5 November 2024
Submitted via Postal Card • Report

Overall Experience  Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5

I would like to highlight the wonderful staff members for their continued efforts when supporting and caring for our daughters. Their enthusiasm and passion is clear and the warmth extended to us as a family has been outstanding. Thank you all for providing such a caring, nurturing environment and encouraging
our girls to truly thrive.

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Review from S V (Father of Child) published on 16 October 2024
Submitted via Website • Report

Overall Experience  Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5

Both of my children attend this nursery and it has been brilliant from day one. The staff are so friendly and provide fantastic facilities and activities for the kids. They are attentive and make sure that our children's individual needs are met all the time. Would highly recommend to other parents.

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Review from G S (Mother of Child) published on 2 August 2024
Submitted via Postal Card • Report

Overall Experience  Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5

Early Years has been amazing for our son the last couple of years, they've really helped his confidence and speech and have really helped his development across the board.
The staff are amazing and so friendly and kind. They go above and beyond for the children.

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Review from H E (Mother of Child) published on 29 July 2024
Submitted via Website • Report

Overall Experience  Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5

Our son has loved his time here at The Early Years Academy. He came as a baby during the Covid pandemic and has gone through to pre-school. The staff are always kind, caring and attentive to the needs of the children. Great facilities and community connections.

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Review from Emily S (Mother of Child) published on 15 March 2024
Submitted via Website • Report

Overall Experience  Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5

I am over the moon with The Early Years Academy! My son is now 19 months old and has been attending since he was 4 months old, the girls are so fantastic with the children there is always an activity out as soon as we get there in the morning so my little one is most of the time too excited to even
remember to say bye to me, they always let me know exactly how he’s been at the end of the day when I pick him up! They always have events where they invite the parents in with their little ones (even when they’re not due on that day!) we are about to go to the Mother's Day event this afternoon so we’re very excited and I know it’ll be hard to get my little one away afterwards! Absolutely would recommend this nursery to anyone!

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Review from Sarah A (Mother of Child) published on 14 March 2024
Submitted via Website • Report

Overall Experience  Overall Experience 4.0 out of 5

Child has really thrived and enjoys the day at nursery. He likes the toys and enjoys and a good sing and dance. The food is great and outdoor space is a real asset compared to other nurseries. Would recommend.

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Review from Sun C (Mother of Child) published on 14 March 2024
Submitted via Website • Report

Overall Experience  Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5

They have a cosy indoor room for each age group of children and a lovely outdoor space. My son eagerly enters the room and enjoys healthy meals prepared in their kitchen. The staff is attentive, positive and professional. I always receive welcoming energy and my son started calling them by name. I can
relax knowing he is being looked after by the lovely team. The administrative side has been so efficient and helpful in supporting our childcare plan. The app they are using is a game-changer, considering the nursery’s busy schedule, it helps me communicate with the staff and stay updated on my son, the nursery’s changes, and events. The observations each focus week show a peek into his nursery life. They always plan to improve the environment and program for children that I’m looking forward to our son’s participation in those coming activities and there are many events that parents can attend. I’m so glad to have found this wonderful setting.

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Review from Louise D (Mother of Child) published on 14 March 2024
Submitted via Website • Report

Overall Experience  Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5

My little boy loves nursery and has formed bonds with all the staff. The nursery provides a great variety of activities and a lovely calming setting for the children. My boy came on so far once he started nursery and has learnt lots of new skills.

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Review from A S (Mother of Child) published on 14 March 2024
Submitted via Website • Report

Overall Experience  Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5

We absolutely love early years academy, our daughter enjoys and looks forward to going. We get regular updates on her day and on her development. They put in so much effort into everything and it is such a lovely atmosphere. I would recommend the nursery to everyone. Our daughter has a food allergy
and they cater to her needs really well.

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Review from T G (Father of Child) published on 13 March 2024
Submitted via Website • Report

Overall Experience  Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5

Our daughter has been attending the toddler room for a few months now, and after a brief period of settling in, she now really loves it. All the staff and kind, and communication is amazing using the app. I particularly love the focus week updates with pictures and descriptions of the fun she’s been
getting up to and the development she’s been making!

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Review from Jo E (Mother of Child) published on 27 February 2024
Submitted via Website • Report

Overall Experience  Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5

Cannot rate this nursery highly enough! We chose EYA because when we had our tour the staff were actually interested in my daughter rather than only informing us on the financial side of things. We also loved the indoor and outdoor spaces. I was really worried about the transition going back to work,
but it has honestly been far easier than I had hoped because I know that my daughter is safe, being well looked after and is genuinely excited to be there, kicks her legs and waves her arms every time we ring the bell with the biggest grin on her face. My daughter has recently finished her focus week, the team messaged to see if there is anything specific we'd like her to develop, and throughout the week we have been sent updates and pictures, with reasons why they've done certain activities and how she's reacted.
The team are truly wonderful and you can tell they care, and whilst there the meals she has are better than what I make for myself. 10s across the board from me!

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Review from Sophie R (Mother of Child) published on 16 January 2024
Submitted via Website • Report

Overall Experience  Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5

Absolutely incredible staff. Amazing at supporting development and creating a safe and welcoming space for children. The food is home-cooked and well balanced, my daughter always eats more there than at home.
I can't rate the nursery highly enough.

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Review from Daniel P (Father of Child) published on 3 January 2024
Submitted via Website • Report

Overall Experience  Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5

This nursery is excellent and has been since we started in January 2021. The staff are all fantastic and there is good staff retention. The nursery employs a key worker policy and uses regular child observations to chart progress and help development.
The kitchen deserves a special mention for the
varied and balanced diet menu plans. Not just pasta every day!
In the nursery, there are good boundaries, with rules well adhered to. In preschool, all children know when to wash their hands and sit patiently at the table at meal times, for example.
Lastly, the nursery has a good outdoor area, which is used on a daily basis year-round, including activities such as mud kitchens, bare foot walking, climbing equipment, sand pits etc.
The nursery is introducing forest school activities.
This is a very good nursery.

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Review from R G (Mother of Child) published on 15 December 2023
Submitted via Website • Report

Overall Experience  Overall Experience 5.0 out of 5

The team are incredibly friendly and professional at all times. We always receive a warm hello and goodbye. The rooms are cosy and relaxing, like a home from home. I feel really happy leaving my child here for the day, knowing he will be well looked after, entertained and fed very tasty food.
The
App is really useful in updating me on the essentials of the day, naps and food. It's also nice to receive photos and read about his development.


The nursery has recently held an open day/stay and play - it was so nice to see my child interacting with other children and the staff, and moving confidently in the space.


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Current Review Score: 10.0 (9.950)

Overview of Review Score

The Review Score of 10 (9.950) out of 10 for The Early Years Academy Derby is based on a) the Average Rating and b) the number of positive Reviews.

  • a) The Average Rating is 5.0 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 4.950 for The Early Years Academy Derby is calculated as follows: ( (363 Excellents x 5) + (19 Goods x 4) ) ÷ 382 Ratings = 4.95

  • 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 The Early Years Academy Derby 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 104 number of registered child places is 20.8, 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

Please Contact Us for Latest Vacancies

Awards / Recognitions (0)

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Meet the Team (1)

Margaret

Margaret Bellamy

Job Title: Nursery Manager

Joined: 2023

Maggie is a dedicated and experienced early years professional with 17 years in childcare and 14 years in nursery management. She has a passion for delivering outstanding outcomes for children, families, and staff, ensuring high-quality provision and continuous improvement. Since joining The Early Years Academy 15 months ago, she has embraced its ethos while bringing fresh, innovative ideas to enhance learning, sustainability, and staff development.


Frequently Asked Questions about The Early Years Academy Derby

What is the Age Range of Children that The Early Years Academy Derby accepts?

The Early Years Academy Derby accepts Children aged from 0 years 3 months to 5 years 0 months.

What Days & Hours is The Early Years Academy Derby Open?

The Early Years Academy Derby 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 The Early Years Academy Derby have capacity for?

The Early Years Academy Derby has capacity for a total of 104 Children.

How far is The Early Years Academy Derby to the centre of Derby?

1.0 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 The Early Years Academy Derby to verify any information. View our terms and conditions. The Early Years Academy Derby has a Platinum Service – more info.