You might worry that all that play means no learning. Wrong. The nursery follows the Early Years Foundation Stage framework, which is a fancy way of saying they teach through messy, fun, hands-on stuff. Your child might be building a tower with blocks—that’s maths. They might be pretending to make you a “tea” of mud and leaves—that’s social skills and imagination.
The preschool programme, for ages 3 to 5, is especially smart. They work on pre-reading and number skills without making it feel like homework. I’ve seen a little girl “write” a letter to her dog using squiggles and stickers, and the staff celebrated it like she’d won a Pulitzer. That pride sticks with them.
And there’s a real focus on emotional intelligence. The staff use calm, gentle language to help kids name their feelings. When a child is upset, they don’t just say “stop crying”; they ask, “Are you feeling frustrated?” It’s crazy how quickly a four-year-old can learn to say “I need space” instead of throwing a block.
Enfield Hilly Fields Day Nursery & Preschool in Enfield, London
The little extras that make you smile
There are moments that just feel good. Like when they celebrate “World Kindness Day” and your kid comes home with a hand-drawn card for you. Or the time they had a mini “sports day” where everyone got a medal, even the child who just sat and watched. That sense of inclusion is everything.
The nursery also hosts family events—think teddy bear picnics and coffee mornings—where you can meet other parents who are in the same sleep-deprived boat. It’s built-in community, no friend-finding app required.
And if you’re worried about the price? Yes, it’s an investment. But many families qualify for government funding (like 15 or 30 free hours from age 3), and the nursery helps you figure that out. Don’t let cost scare you away—ask about options.
