In the early years of a child’s life, the right environment can make all the difference. It is where confidence begins, friendships are formed, and curiosity is encouraged to grow. At Shining Stars Nursery in Appleby-In-Westmorland, that philosophy has shaped everything they do for over a decade.
Now, their dedication has been recognised with the title of Nursery of the Year.
A family vision built on care
Shining Stars Nursery was founded more than 12 years ago by Martyn and Sam Alderson, driven by a clear goal: to provide high-quality childcare in a setting that feels both professional and genuinely caring.
From the beginning, the focus was not just on education, but on creating a place where children feel safe, valued and excited to learn. That vision still defines the nursery today.
Being family-run plays a big part in that. It allows the team to offer a more personal approach, where relationships matter and every child is known as an individual rather than just another name on a register.
A true home-from-home environment
Walk into Shining Stars Nursery and you quickly understand what sets it apart. There is a warmth to the environment that goes beyond the physical space.
The nursery prides itself on creating a “home-from-home” atmosphere, where children feel comfortable enough to explore, play and express themselves freely. This sense of belonging is key to helping children develop emotionally as well as academically.
Their ethos is simple but powerful: to provide high-quality care and education in a safe, happy, fun and welcoming environment where children are at the heart of everything.
That approach is reflected in everything they do, from daily activities to the way staff interact with both children and parents.
Supporting every child’s journey
No two children are the same, and Shining Stars Nursery embraces that fully.
Development is supported through play-based learning, allowing children to grow at their own pace while building key skills naturally. At the same time, strong relationships with parents and carers ensure that each child’s needs are understood both inside and outside the nursery setting.
One story that stands out is of a child who initially struggled with confidence and separation. Through patience, consistency and encouragement, that child gradually began to settle, make friends and enjoy their time at nursery.
The impact went beyond the child alone. The family later shared how much of a difference the experience had made to their lives, even returning with a younger sibling. It is moments like these that truly define the nursery’s work.
Deep roots in the local community
Shining Stars Nursery is not just based in Appleby, it is part of the community.
Children are regularly taken out on local visits, helping them understand the world around them from a young age. Trips might include visits to shops, the dentist, the fire station or even train journeys, as well as swimming sessions for pre-schoolers.
These experiences help children build confidence in real-world environments while developing a sense of belonging within their local area.
The nursery also takes part in events such as the Appleby Town Carnival, strengthening its connection with families and the wider community.
Overcoming challenges with resilience
Like many childcare providers, Shining Stars Nursery has faced its share of challenges.
The COVID-19 pandemic required constant adaptation, balancing safety with the need to continue supporting children and families. It was a difficult period, but one that ultimately strengthened the nursery’s resilience.
An even more testing time came following a safeguarding allegation over three years ago. It was an incredibly challenging experience for everyone involved. However, the unwavering support from parents and the community never faltered.
Once the allegations were proven unfounded and the nursery reopened, it moved forward stronger than ever. That period highlighted the level of trust and belief families have in the setting.
Milestones that matter
While awards and achievements are important, for Shining Stars Nursery, the most meaningful milestone is simple.
It is seeing children who started as babies leave for school as confident, happy individuals ready for their next step.
Reaching over a decade of supporting local families is another significant achievement, especially as many families return with younger siblings, creating a sense of continuity across generations.
A well-deserved recognition
Winning Nursery of the Year came as a wonderful surprise to the team.
The reaction was one of pride and gratitude, knowing that the recognition reflects the hard work, care and dedication shown every single day.
For the staff, it is a reminder that what they do truly matters, not just to the children, but to entire families.
Built on trust and relationships
The strength of Shining Stars Nursery lies in its relationships.
Trust, consistency and communication are at the heart of everything they do. Parents know their children are in a safe and nurturing environment, while children feel supported and encouraged to be themselves.
This award reflects that connection. It shows that the nursery is not just providing a service, but playing a meaningful role in the lives of the families it supports.
Looking ahead
The focus for the future is clear.
Shining Stars Nursery aims to continue building on its strong foundations, maintaining the high standards it is known for while always looking for ways to improve and evolve.
Growth is not just about size, but about continuing to deliver the same level of care, attention and quality that families have come to trust.
A heartfelt thank you
The team’s message is simple and genuine:
Thank you for your continued support and trust.
Every family that chooses Shining Stars Nursery becomes part of its story, and this award is as much theirs as it is the team’s.
Congratulations to Shining Stars Nursery (Appleby) on being named Nursery of the Year. A setting that proves early years care is not just about learning, but about creating a place where children truly shine.
