Toddlers’ University – Expert Early Years Childcare in Ilkeston & Beeston
Welcome to Toddlers’ University, a trusted nursery dedicated to providing high-quality early years childcare for children aged 3 months to 5 years. Our experienced team creates a safe, nurturing and stimulating environment where every child can explore, learn and thrive.
Why Choose Toddlers’ University?
- Safe and Caring Environment – A warm, welcoming space for all children.
- Qualified Early Years Practitioners – Our staff hold, or are working towards, NVQ Level 3 or higher, with specialist training in childcare, safeguarding, and child development.
- Tailored Learning – Play-based activities designed to foster confidence, curiosity, and creativity.
- Strong Parent Partnerships – Regular updates and open communication to keep you involved in your child’s progress.
Flexible Childcare Options
We offer a variety of care options to suit your family’s needs:
- Full-time and part-time nursery sessions
- Wrap-around care for busy parents
- Government-funded hours for eligible children
- Specialised programmes for babies, toddlers, and pre-school children
Join Our Community
Toddlers' University isn't just a nursery - it's a community where children flourish, and families feel supported. We invite parents to get involved, explore our resources, and be part of their child's learning journey.
"Every child is welcomed with care, guidance, and love. Our staff ensure learning is fun, safe, and inspiring." – Parent testimonial
Visit Us Today
Meet Our Expert Team
- Book a tour to meet our team and see our classrooms.
- Contact us for enrolment information and funding options.
Park Road, Ilkeston, Derbyshire, DE7 5DR | Tel: 0115 944 4294
Toddlers’ University Ilkeston
Toddlers’ University Day Nursery in Ilkeston was registered by the current family owners in 2003, and operates from a converted church premises situated in Park Road in the Larklands area just to the south east of Ilkeston, Derbyshire.
2a The City, Beeston, Nottingham, NG9 2ED | Tel: 0115 967 8602
Toddlers’ University Beeston
Toddlers’ University Day Nursery in Beeston was registered by the current family owners in 2009. The nursery is very close to Beeston town centre, next to Middle Street tram stop at the top of Lower Regent Street and just a few minutes walk from Tesco Extra and Broadgate Park.
What Ofsted think
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Beeston, November 2023
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Beeston, November 2023
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Ilkeston, July 2025
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Ilkeston, July 2025
Our Management Team
Toddlers’ University employs qualified and experienced staff with a minimum of a NVQ 3 or equivalent qualification in a childcare related subject and each nursery has at least one university degree qualified staff member.
The quality of our staff team begins with a rigorous recruitment process, which ensures we recruit high calibre personnel with a mix of sound technical knowledge, good interpersonal skills and a strong background of experience in the sector.
The current management team has over 50 combined years of experience in early years childcare and education management and has owned and operated Toddlers’ University for 18 years.
Kerry Hawthorn
Director and Co-Owner
Toddlers’ University
Adele Odowd
Manager
Toddlers’ University
Beeston
Tanya Robinson
Manager
Toddlers’ University
Ilkeston
Chris Hawthorn
Co-Owner
Toddlers’ University