Little Crickets Learning Centre

About this day nursery

Little Crickets Learning Centre, established in 2011 by Louise Ashman and Caroline O’Brien, offers high-quality childcare for children aged 1 to 5 years old. Initially based at Northwood Cricket Club, the nursery moved into its own purpose-built facility in 2017.

Both founders bring extensive experience to the centre, having met while earning their NNEB Diploma in Childcare in 1990. Louise furthered her education to become a teacher, while Caroline advanced into management roles within various early years settings.

Their shared vision for providing exceptional care and experiences is at the core of Little Crickets. The centre emphasises child-initiated play, aligning its activities with Development Matters and Birth to Five Matters guidelines, recognising play as fundamental to a child’s learning and growth.

The nursery boasts a dedicated and experienced staff team, all of whom are first-aid trained, possess relevant qualifications, and undergo DBS checks. They are also provided with opportunities for ongoing professional development.

The facility provides a stimulating environment with expansive outdoor play areas and offers freshly prepared meals by an on-site cook. Furthermore, Little Crickets Learning Centre supports various government funding schemes to assist families.

Our ethos

Little Crickets Learning Centre's philosophy centres on the belief that play is fundamental to a child’s learning and growth. They emphasise child-initiated play and align their activities with Development Matters and Birth to Five Matters guidelines.

What it's like

Children show confidence within the setting, have positive relationships with staff, and feel comfortable in their care, often approaching staff for cuddles. Staff know children exceptionally well, are aware of their home lives, and speak to them about important people, which helps children feel valued. Children behave exceptionally well, with older children supporting younger ones and younger children imitating cleaning tasks, while staff reinforce positive behaviour and prepare children for transitions.

Pricing & funding

Fees are charged at an hourly rate for any hours beyond funded entitlement. Breakfast, snacks, and tea are included in the fees, whereas lunch is charged as an additional daily fee. A penalty charge is applied for recurring late collections.