Business Details
19 Years
experience
Expert Childcare & Early Education in Rugby
Bluewindmill Nursery has been dedicated to nurturing young minds since its establishment, offering comprehensive childcare from infancy through pre-school years. Our purpose-built facility at St Oswalds C of E Academy in Rugby provides a stimulating environment with structured learning activities aligned to the Early Years Foundation Stage framework. With a team led by Managing Director Gill Knee and Nursery Manager Belinda Branstonboth holding advanced qualifications in early years educationwe prioritise child development, safeguarding, and healthy nutrition.Our Food for Life Award recognises our commitment to freshly prepared meals using homegrown produce, while flexible fee structures and government-funded options ensure accessibility. Daily operations from 8:00am to 6:00pm, 51 weeks annually, reflect our dedication to supporting working families.
Services
Day Nursery
After School Care
Holiday Childcare
Healthy Meal Provision
EYFS Curriculum
Details
- Year established: 2007
Highlights and features
- We implement the Early Years Foundation Stage framework for holistic child development
- Our leadership team holds advanced qualifications including MA and Foundation Degrees in Early Years
- We maintain a Food for Life Award for healthy, freshly prepared meals
- Flexible fee structures accommodate varying family needs with childcare vouchers accepted
- Designated safeguarding leads ensure child protection compliance with Warwickshire protocols
Associations and certifications
- Soil Association Food for Life Award
Services
Day Nursery
Our day nursery provides full-time care for children aged 0-5 years, operating 51 weeks annually. The facility includes age-specific playrooms and secure outdoor spaces with climbing equipment and gardening areas. Staff implement the Early Years Foundation Stage framework to develop communication, physical skills, and school readiness through structured activities.
After School Care
We offer after-school childcare and holiday provision for primary school-aged children. Activities focus on homework support, social development, and physical play in our extensive garden areas. This service extends our educational approach beyond regular school hours while maintaining safety and structured supervision.
Healthy Meal Provision
Freshly prepared meals and snacks follow Food for Life Award guidelines, with reduced sugar and salt content. Children participate in growing vegetables and caring for ducks, incorporating harvested produce into daily menus. Special dietary requirements are accommodated through tailored meal plans prepared in our on-site kitchen.
EYFS Curriculum
Our educational program follows the Early Years Foundation Stage framework, covering seven learning areas. Staff use observation-based assessments to track progress in literacy, mathematics, and personal development. Transfer profiles document achievements for smooth transitions to primary school reception classes.
Safeguarding
We maintain comprehensive safeguarding protocols aligned with Warwickshire Families First policies. Designated leads provide first aid and child protection training for all staff. Regular assessments ensure compliance with statutory requirements while creating a secure environment for children's development.
People
Gill Knee
Managing Director
Gill holds an MA in Childcare from Leicester University and Early Years Professional Status. She oversees EYFS implementation and safeguarding procedures, bringing over 20 years' experience in nursery management and early years advisory roles.
Belinda Branston
Nursery Manager
Belinda has a BA (Hons) in Early Years Education Studies. She manages daily operations, implements behaviour management strategies, and serves as a designated safeguarding lead with 20+ years' experience in childcare settings.
Questions
What age groups do you cater for?
We care for children from babyhood up to primary school age, with dedicated spaces for different developmental stages.
Do you follow educational frameworks?
Yes, we implement the Early Years Foundation Stage framework with structured learning across all seven developmental areas.
Are meals included in nursery fees?
Yes, we provide breakfast, lunch, and tea with freshly prepared meals following Food for Life Award standards.
How do you support school readiness?
Our pre-school curriculum focuses on independence skills, communication development, and social interaction to prepare children for reception classes.
What safeguarding measures are in place?
We have designated safeguarding leads, first aid trained staff, and policies aligned with Warwickshire County Council requirements.
Do you offer flexible childcare options?
Yes, we provide 8am-6pm care, 51 weeks annually, with government-funded places and childcare voucher acceptance.
