The Little School by the Lake

Opening hours

8am-6pm

Established

2023

Timothy Brant-coles

6 months ago

⭐️ 1 Star A nursery that failed our vulnerable child when he needed support most. Our son has a muscle-wasting condition and genuinely needs more care than most children. Instead, we felt he was pushed aside at The Little School on the Lake, Petersfield, with decisions about his hours and days appearing to be made around staff convenience rather than his needs. We were told his EHCP paperwork had been completed, only to later discover it had not been submitted. This delay could have affected the vital early educational support he needs at school. Hygiene quickly became another significant concern. Our son regularly came home very dirty, with food still on his face and his hands not properly cleaned. Outside the nursery, rubbish bags were often left around, creating an untidy and unpleasant environment. We hold photos that show this. There also appeared to be extremely high staff turnover, and communication with management was consistently difficult. This left us deeply worried about stability, consistency, and the overall quality of care. We attempted to resolve these issues directly and privately on several occasions, but after repeated assurances that were not followed through, we felt we had no choice but to take the matter further — both for our son and to protect future children. I rarely write negative reviews, but parents deserve to know what we experienced.

Liam

6 months ago

We are so pleased with the experience our two boys are having at the nursery. They absolutely love coming in each day, and it’s been wonderful to see how much confidence they’ve gained since joining. The outdoor space is fantastic – they talk about it all the time and clearly thrive in such a fun, stimulating environment. It’s also so clear how caring and nurturing the staff are. They know the children so well, and we really appreciate the time, attention, and genuine kindness they show. We couldn’t be happier with the care our boys are receiving.

Katy Cory

9 months ago

Both my children have attended the nursery from baby room onward. Being close to this nursery so my daughter can continue to attend when her brother starts school in September was a big factor for our school choices - it is a lovely place where the children explore and have freedom to enjoy themselves. The staff care deeply for my children and have always been there for us. It is a lovely setting and they make the most of the large outdoor areas. They are very clear on safe guarding and the rules are clearly articulated within the guidance documents for the nursery and the Famly app. I would highly recommend.

April Brant-Coles

6 months ago

I would strongly advise any parent to be extremely cautious. My son, who has a diagnosed disability, had his hours reduced to suit the nursery’s own staffing and employment issues, not his needs. This was confirmed directly by the owner. The nursery also submitted my son’s sensitive information and EHCP application to the wrong portal, meaning the Local Authority never received it. I only found this out after contacting them myself. After I requested my son’s records under GDPR, multiple historic notes were edited within hours, which is extremely concerning and is now being formally reviewed. Communication from the owner has been inconsistent, reactive, and unprofessional. I would not trust this setting with any child’s wellbeing, especially one with additional needs. I am now taking formal legal action and reporting the matter to all appropriate authorities. — A concerned parent

diana fowler

9 months ago

Both my children attend Little School by the Lake, they thrive here. The staff are kind, caring and have built the most special bond with the children. The facilities (inside and out) are well equipped, secure and safe, offering a variety of play areas and toys that cater to different ages and interests. Activities for the day are well thought through and planned by the staff. I would and have recommended little school to friends looking for an excellent nursery/preschool.