Established in 1903, we are the UK's leading childcare charity and social enterprise; our ambition is to build a better future for London's children, families and local communities through a commitment to excellence in Early Years education, training and research.

Outstanding, accessible nurseries

With more than 320 passionate staff across 21 community, workplace and Children’s Centre nurseries in five key London boroughs, we are proud to make a real difference to the lives of more than 1700 children every year.

Such achievements are only possible thanks to our unique and sustainable social business model.  We work closely with local authority partners, businesses and colleges to give children and families from all backgrounds access to our nurseries.

All our nurseries are registered with Ofsted and are inspected every three years. We are proud to have been the first organisation to achieve Outstanding status in Westminster – and now 86% of our nurseries are rated 'Good' or 'Outstanding'.

Happy children, confident parents

We believe that all children deserve to be treated with equal care and respect; each given every opportunity to develop a passion for learning, regardless of their background or ability – and so achieve their full potential, both now and in later life.

We enjoy an outstanding reputation for great childcare, but also a real commitment to active engagement with parents. We believe that cross-fertilisation between the nursery and the home learning environment is critical to children's success.  We build strong links with parents by connecting children's interests through their learning journeys  and sharing our children's excitement and enthusiasm through our frequent events, celebrations  and outings.  We understand the challenges of being a parent and try and help with sessions at the nursery on common parenting dilemas such as weening, tantrums, potty training and reading and talking together.

Find out how we could make a difference to you and your child

Caring, expert staff

The best staff provide the best care and at LEYF we have a dedicated Centre for Research, Learning and Development.  This team supports the professional development of all our staff and apprentices.  They offer a range of practical, distinctive and accredited CPD courses designed for Early Years practitioners across the sector. In addition, they have developed innovative programmes to enable disadvantaged young adults and local parents to become work ready and take the first steps towards a career.

Read more about our training programmes

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Connected communities

We place a great emphasis on the role of the community in all we do and, wherever possible, operate in an ethical and sustainable way.

Although part of a larger, respected organisation, every one of our nurseries is unique and a genuine part of their own community. Nearly two-thirds of our staff are local to their nursery, a good number have been with us for more than ten or in some cases twenty years. We are delighted that a number of parents who have brought their children to our nurseries have gone on to join our staff team - as have our children!

Alongside all of this, we enjoy developing multigenerational projects that help to knit both young and old together – where activities such as film-making, needlecraft and song help create stronger and more integrated, connected communities.

Read more about how we go beyond the nursery door

Building a better future

Whilst 87% of our income comes from nursery fees and training, we still actively seek additional funds to help children, young people and families overcome crisis and become independent.

Find out more about how we are sponsored

Our history

We’ve been providing childcare, training and family support across London since 1903.

Read about how we started and where we’re going

In the media

With our unique social business, we regularly share our experience and put the voice of the child at the centre.  We welcome those who are interested in exploring a radical perspective. 

Read what others are saying about us

News and events

What’s happening in our nurseries, across the sector - and what events are taking place that you and your family might enjoy?

Catch up on the latest news

Find out about family and sector events