About us
About Smart Start Nursery and Childminding in Crewe
Smart Start began in 2012 as a childminder on Stewart Street. Today we look after families across Crewe from two warm, welcoming settings — and we still know every child's name, comfort item and favourite song.
Our story
Smart Start began in 2012 as a childminder on Stewart Street in Crewe. Our homely Stewart Street setting grew to what it is today through demand and word of mouth from local families who wanted childcare that felt like an extension of home.
In 2023 we opened Underwood Lane to offer free childcare to families who really need it. Both settings share one team culture: qualified, experienced practitioners, small key groups, and a genuine open-door policy. If something matters to you, it matters to us.
Our vision
To give every child in Crewe the best possible start in life — safe, happy, healthy and ready to learn.
The best possible start
We believe every child in Crewe deserves a safe, happy and healthy start in life, no matter their background or circumstances.
Learning through play
Children learn best when they are curious, engaged and having fun. Our environments are designed to spark imagination and exploration.
Partnership with families
Parents are a child's first and most important educators. We work closely with you, listening to your hopes and sharing every milestone.
Growing together
We nurture not just children, but confidence, resilience and a lifelong love of learning that stays with them long after they leave us.
Our core values
At the heart of everything we do is our commitment to ensuring every child is safe, happy and healthy. These core values underpin all aspects of our curriculum, our daily practice, and the relationships we build with children and their families.
Safe
Children can only thrive when they feel safe, secure and protected. We provide a nurturing environment where children's physical and emotional wellbeing is our highest priority. Through strong safeguarding practices, consistent routines, secure attachments and positive relationships with caring adults, children develop the confidence to explore, take appropriate risks and become independent learners. We teach children how to keep themselves safe while creating an environment where they feel valued, respected and listened to.
Happy
We believe that happy children are confident learners. We create an environment filled with warmth, laughter, kindness and meaningful relationships where every child feels a genuine sense of belonging. We celebrate each child's individuality, interests and achievements, ensuring they feel valued for who they are. By following children's curiosity and providing engaging, play-based experiences, we foster a lifelong love of learning while supporting their emotional wellbeing and self-esteem.
Healthy
Good health provides the foundation for lifelong learning and development. We promote healthy lifestyles by providing nutritious meals and snacks, encouraging regular physical activity, supporting children's mental and emotional wellbeing, and helping them develop independence in self-care. Children are encouraged to spend time outdoors in all seasons, develop healthy habits, understand the importance of hygiene, and build resilience through active play, rest and positive relationships. We work closely with families and other professionals to ensure every child receives the support they need to flourish.
These three core values — Safe, Happy and Healthy — are woven throughout every experience we provide. They guide our decision-making, shape our environment, influence our interactions and ensure that every child has the best possible start in life, enabling them to become confident, capable and resilient learners.
Enquire about a place
Tell us which nursery you prefer, the sessions or start date you have in mind, and how to reach you. We'll reply within one working day.
Come and feel it for yourself
Values look lovely on a website. The real test is the sound of the rooms — book a show round and judge for yourself.
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