Scallywags Nursery Chelmsford

Opening hours

Monday to Friday, all year round, with the exception of one week at Christmas, from 7.30am until 6.30pm

Age range

9 months to school age

Term time / All Year

All Year

Vanessa Dooley

a year ago

We, at Jigsaw Early Years Consultancy have had the pleasure of delivering training at Scallywags for many years, and I can honestly say this is one of the most inspiring early years teams I have ever met. Their child-centred ethos shines through in everything they do, creating a nurturing and enriching environment for the children in their care. After delivering training on an emotive topic today, I was blown away by their empathy, compassion, and enthusiasm. Every team member was fully engaged, demonstrating their commitment to continuous learning—even on a Saturday! Their dedication to ensuring their vision is embraced by the whole team is truly admirable. Scallywags is a setting built on honesty, trust, and a genuine passion for putting children first. If I were looking for childcare, I wouldn’t hesitate to send my own children here. An awe-inspiring team with an incredible ethos!

Ryan Gledhill

a year ago

It’s genuinely hard to believe that this isn’t the highest-rated nursery in Chelmsford—if not all of Essex. Every single aspect of Scallywags reflects the deep care and dedication of its team, led by an exceptional leadership group whose experience and vision set the gold standard for early childhood education. What truly sets them apart is their proactive approach to child development. Their recommendations are always thoughtful and insightful, tailored to each child’s needs. Thanks to the intimate setting and the team’s expertise, they are uniquely positioned to guide children through their most formative years with unparalleled attention and care. The nursery embraces the beauty of Hygge, natural wooden toys, and the art of crafting playthings from scratch—whether it’s homemade playdough or teaching children how to build from first principles. This isn’t just childcare; it’s an immersive, enriching experience where creativity, independence, and hands-on learning flourish. There’s a strong emphasis on nature, exploration, and embracing a child’s environment—an approach deeply rooted in proven human psychology. Quite frankly, I absolutely love it. Even as an adult, stepping into the nursery brings an immediate sense of calm, a testament to the warmth and atmosphere they’ve so carefully cultivated. Having personally visited every nursery in Chelmsford to ensure my daughters receive the very best, I can confidently say—if you’re lucky enough to find a spot at Scallywags, take it. You won’t find a better start for your child. If I could give 10 stars, I would without hesitation.

Florentina Wicks

4 years ago

Scallywags Chelmsford nursery… 5* Professional high standard care staff from Kerry the Manager and to all staff involved in my daughter” Ella” development in the last 2 years getting Ella ready for school.Ella’s confidence communication skills and progress it is a credit to be given to Scallywags Nursery staff !!! Very helpful friendly staff Nicola, Dani, Abbie , Tegan and Sophie for everything everyone done for Ella xx Highly recommend nursery!

Deon Ludeke

6 years ago

Excellent establishment. My son has been there for the last 2 years and loves it. The staff are amazing and very good with the kids. Can't find a fault at all. Google maps directions on the other hand are not great as it tries to take you through the entrance for New Hall School which is completely wrong.