We are delighted to have once again been voted one of the best in the country thanks to the feedback of parents and carers.
Clever Clogs Nursery Group was placed seventh out of 1,640 nursery groups that were scored by the team at Day Nurseries.
That ranking was secured thanks to its perfect 10 out of 10 rating, and put it ahead of some of the biggest and most recognised groups in the country.
The award was given by the industry-leading Day Nurseries (www.daynurseries.co.uk) platform, which assesses the performances of nursery groups and individual nurseries across the country based on the reviews that are shared by parents and carers of children who attend.
The annual awards also put the group’s three nurseries, Clever Clogs Day Nursery in Belmont, Clever Clogs Day Nursery in Bowburn and Little Ladybirds in Stockton, in the Top 20 Nurseries for the North East region, coming in at 8th, 6th and 7th respectively, as of March 31st 2026.
Andrea Townsley, owner of Clever Clogs Nursery Group, said: “I could not be prouder that our nurseries have been recognised at the very highest level, regionally and nationally.
“As a small group with only three nurseries, to rank seventh out of 1,640 is unbelievable. We have always said we may be small, but we’re perfectly formed and this rating, along with the coveted 10 out of 10 score, is proof of that.
“This success really is down to the fantastic teams we have in place, and staff who go above and beyond every single day to ensure our children receive the very best care and pre-school support.
“What’s even more special is that the Day Nurseries awards are based on the feedback our parents and carers have provided. It’s them who are saying we’re doing a wonderful job and that means the world to us.”
Each of the nurseries in the Clever Clogs group looks after over 120 children, from babies through to pre-school.
Sharon Lewis, Operations Director at Clever Clogs Nursery Group, added: “Whenever our nurseries are recognised for their standards of excellence, of course we are delighted. But when that recognition comes nationally, because of what our parents and carers are saying about us, that means even more.
“I want to say thank you to every single member of staff who has contributed to these award wins. It’s a team effort and everyone has played a part in our success, and we really do appreciate that.”
Feedback from parents/carers included:
“Since my granddaughter started nursery, we have noticed her development has improved greatly, staff members are always informative with handovers and always go above and beyond.” (Clever Clogs Day Nursery Belmont)
“Our little boy goes in and out beaming which is the biggest review of all for us as parents. His development with food, language and movement has come leaps and I know this has been helped massively by the ladies in his room.” (Clever Clogs Day Nursery Bowburn)
“When my daughter joined at the age of two she didn’t say a word, was so shy and only wanted her mum. Little Ladybirds have made her confident and given her the tools and support with her language. I cannot rate or thank the team enough.” (Little Ladybirds Day Nursery).
“My son loves attending this nursery and we always know he is safe and happy when we leave him.” (Clever Clogs Day Nursery Belmont)
“Amazing nursery and staff.” (Clever Clogs Day Nursery Belmont).
“We couldn’t have asked for a better experience for our son starting nursery. All the staff are so warm and friendly.” (Little Ladybirds Day Nursery).
“My wife and I are very at ease leaving our son there, knowing he will get the best care. In every room you get the feeling that the people working there care. That matters.” (Clever Clogs Day Nursery Bowburn).
Clever Clogs Nursery Group employs over 130 people across the three North East locations.