Every September, as children move on to “big school,” our nurseries experience one of the most bittersweet moments of the year. We are so proud to see how far each child has come — but it’s never easy to say goodbye to families who have become such a big part of our community.
Across our nurseries: Little Moments, Little Memories, Little Robins, Little Tots, Little Stories, Little Owls and Little Sunflowers – families often leave behind thank you cards. Sometimes written in a child’s wobbly handwriting, sometimes carefully penned by parents, these notes aren’t just keepsakes. They are our most treasured reviews.
Amongst the hugs, waves and last-day photographs, there’s something else that always means the world to our teams: the thank you cards.
More than a review
Ofsted reports, sector awards and online reviews all matter. But nothing captures the real spirit of nursery life like the words of children and parents as they say goodbye.
At Little Moments, one family summed it up so beautifully:
“We are endlessly grateful… you’ve played a part in shaping the person he’s becoming.”
At Little Memories, another shared:
“Bella has grown in confidence and that’s because of the care and encouragement you have all given her.”
And at Little Owls, a parent wrote with heartfelt honesty:
“Thank you from the bottom of our hearts for all the love, care, and patience you’ve shown Mira. Watching her grow, learn, and smile every day has meant the world to us.”
From tiny voices
Some of the most poignant notes come straight from the children themselves.
At Little Robins, one child wrote simply:
“Thank you for being the best teachers… I’ve had the best time.”
At Little Tots, another family left a message we will never forget:
“You are the best nursery in the whole world and we will miss you all so much. We will remember you forever.”
And at Little Sunflowers, a little voice shared:
“You’ve all made me feel so welcomed and loved from the day I started – and helped shape me into the confident little boy I am now.”
Confidence, kindness and care
Every card tells a different story, but the themes are always the same: love, patience, encouragement and joy.
At Little Stories, one family reflected on their child’s transformation:
“From the shy little non-talker to our confident talker, we are so grateful for everything you have done… Thank you so much for giving him the best start to his education.”
And at Little Owls, another family shared:
“Thank you for all your help and love that really made Keala grow… we’re gonna miss all the teachers.”
A reflection of who we are
What makes these cards so precious is that they are more than reviews – they are heartfelt messages, capturing the bonds built, the milestones celebrated and the memories made together.
As Gary Jeffries, our Director of Operations, says:
“These messages remind us that what we do every day really matters. They show the impact of creating safe, nurturing and joyful environments, and how this sets children in the best stead for big school and beyond. We couldn’t be prouder of our teams, or more grateful to the families who take the time to share these words.”
Why we do what we do
Each nursery has its own heartbeat:
- Little Moments: milestones, big steps, shaping futures.
- Little Memories: encouragement, progress, confidence.
- Little Robins: kindness, fun and care.
- Little Tots: gratitude, love, unforgettable memories.
- Little Stories: growth, progress, heartfelt thanks.
- Little Owls: patience, nurture and warmth.
Together, these voices remind us that our work isn’t just about care and education – it’s about creating memories that families carry with them forever.
These thank you cards will always be our most treasured reviews.
Take a look at them in the gallery below:
