Ladybird Nursery Thornsett

About this day nursery

Ladybird Thornsett, a branch of Ladybird Nurseries, is a highly-regarded childcare establishment that first opened its doors in September 2020. Located conveniently between Birkbeck and Norwood Junction train stations, this nursery provides care for approximately 35 children daily, ranging from 3 months to 5 years old.

The nursery operates across two floors, with babies (3 months to 2 years) located on the first floor and toddlers (2-3 years) and preschoolers (3-5 years) on the ground floor, which offers direct access to a garden. The facility is fully air-conditioned and equipped with comprehensive CCTV for security, along with high-quality furniture from Community Playthings.

For added safety, an Automated External Defibrillator (AED) is installed, and staff are fully trained in its use. The outdoor spaces include a main garden at the rear and a dedicated baby garden at the front.

Ladybird Thornsett has received an 'Good' rating from Ofsted, with inspectors highlighting the strong progress children make, their motivation to learn, and the positive relationships they form with staff. The nursery prides itself on a strong team spirit among staff, who feel well-supported and valued.

They offer an all-inclusive service covering meals, nappies, wipes, formula milk, and extracurricular classes as part of their fees.

Our ethos

The heart of Ladybird Nurseries is simple: we provide a genuine home-from-home environment. Run by the same family since 1995, we believe the best foundation for a child is built on trust, warmth, and decades of experience. Our family ethos is expressed through partnership — by working closely with every family, we create a secure, nurturing space that allows each child the confidence and opportunity to thrive and fulfil their unique potential.

What it's like

The setting is clean and welcoming, with children happy and content due to effective settling-in procedures and secure attachments with their key person. Children are motivated learners, enjoying the activities, showing confidence and high self-esteem, and freely accessing the garden. Staff have high expectations for all children, including those with SEND and EAL, ensuring good progress and preparation for their next educational stage.

Pricing & funding

Fees are charged monthly, with rates varying by standard, 15-hour, or 30-hour funded status. A minimum booking of two full days is required. While permanent half days are not available, ad hoc sessions, early starts, late finishes, and additional consumables during funded hours are charged at flat rates.