Testimonials
“The Aunties season children’s lives with love and fresh air!”
“The Aunties hold a unique philosophy that is bred into the children and families that are lucky enough to make the decision to send their precious little ones there. The Aunties’ belief in spending as much time outdoors and in nature sets a precedent for life and feeds into enhancing family life. This follows on into the community where the children grow up together holding a unique love of nature and robust temperament that grows due to the Aunties’ approach.”
“Auntie Sandy… we are very grateful for the start E. had with you. She is definitely ahead of things when it comes to learning.. Her reading has taken off and she and H. have their own reading sessions with the teachers because they are so advanced! And that … is down to all the work you did … Her teacher said they always love getting children who have been to The Aunties! It is obviously because you ground them so well in so many aspects of life…. Lots of love to you all” FP
“Dearest Auntie Sandy …. The Aunties fill the world with love!”
“Good morning Ahlexi, Hope you are doing well among all the craziness! I stumbled across this … poetry on the theme of ‘pudding’! It made me think of our first visit to the Aunties and Auntie Sandy giving [child] a squeeze and calling him a little pudding- I just thought it was so sweet and such a loving and warm term of endearment!). I thought I would share this lovely memory I have of first coming to Aunties …… Thank you for all you are doing to keep everyone well looked after, safe and sane during this time! … it’s so clear to me that you have the well-being of the children AND the parents firmly at heart and are always going the extra mile (or extra hundred miles at that!) … VP January 2021)
“Dear Sandy, Vahik, and Ahlexi…. I just wanted to reiterate my heartfelt appreciation for the dedication, hard work and wisdom with which I see you running this nursery behind the scenes. We are both so grateful for the work you and all your staff do to create such a special, nurturing, safe, fun, and loving environment and we are equally grateful for your efforts to stay this way! Business is often seen as structures and statistics, but I think what makes your business so successful….. is that you keep the ‘human’ in the picture, and for me that is worth more than the little extra money we are paying for it. That is why I chose your nursery. Thank you again for having the courage to stick with your own vision of what works, from which E, and we as her parents benefit enormously. The experience of seeing E bound off excitedly to see her tribe is so precious and we are very glad to have found you! Love P,P,E.”
“Dear Ahlexi, Sandy, and Vahik… we have been really impressed and very happy with Aunties and all your staff who are a real asset and wonderful influence on the children.”
“Our daughter has benefited hugely from the nurturing environment provided at The Aunties, and the attention to her all-round development has been second to none. There is a palpable sense of teamwork amongst the staff which creates a calm, structured, and happy environment for the children. I feel S is part of a big family and learns enormously through her social interactions with children both younger and older than her, under the attentive guidance of the staff.
The Aunties’ ethos is one of fairness, kindness, respect, dedication, and fun. It is from this foundation that the children develop a solid sense of self and of community as well as thoughtfulness, teamwork, patience, resilience, discernment, and countless other life skills.
Auntie Sandy’s Advice Clinic has been of great support when we have come across parenting challenges, and we feel that the nursery setting enhances what we’re able to provide our children. Our 8-year old, who herself attended Aunties, loves coming back during school holidays. Both our girls come back home beaming – as well as counting in French, Spanish, and English, and with better table manners:) Through both the formal assessments and the detailed everyday feedback, it is clear the Aunties as a team know exactly what each child’s next goal is and their progress in general, and that they have their best interests at heart. The outdoor element is key to the way the nursery is run, and the Aunties use it to the children’s full advantage. The Aunties’ solid grounding in child development and genuine investment in each child, supports every child as a whole person. The nursery goes above and beyond expectations, and there is nothing I would change about it PK”
The Aunties’ ethos is one of fairness, kindness, respect, dedication, and fun. It is from this foundation that the children develop a solid sense of self and of community as well as thoughtfulness, teamwork, patience, resilience, discernment, and countless other life skills.
Auntie Sandy’s Advice Clinic has been of great support when we have come across parenting challenges, and we feel that the nursery setting enhances what we’re able to provide our children. Our 8-year old, who herself attended Aunties, loves coming back during school holidays. Both our girls come back home beaming – as well as counting in French, Spanish, and English, and with better table manners:) Through both the formal assessments and the detailed everyday feedback, it is clear the Aunties as a team know exactly what each child’s next goal is and their progress in general, and that they have their best interests at heart. The outdoor element is key to the way the nursery is run, and the Aunties use it to the children’s full advantage. The Aunties’ solid grounding in child development and genuine investment in each child, supports every child as a whole person. The nursery goes above and beyond expectations, and there is nothing I would change about it PK”
“Dear Sandy, Vahik, Ahlexi, and all the Aunties and Auncles, ….. Thank you so much for three and a half years of care, wisdom and love for S (and [mum] at times too!!!). S’s development has been something else – and we both strongly believe that the Aunties are a major part of that.
We have been blown away by the work that your team does on a daily basis – we simply couldn’t fault it. You have something very special going on there – box it up, keep it and treasure it. We hope that many more children experience what S has during their early years…..You should also reflect on what a brilliant team you are and be proud about what you do on a daily basis….from Auntie Sandy’s surgeries through to constant reassurance to parents who are new to parenthood – you help in so many ways that have such a massive impact on family life. Over the past 18 months, you have dealt with a once in a lifetime event, and you’ve done that with resilience, humility, and happiness at all times. Well done and congratulations to you all. All our love, G, A and S xx”
We have been blown away by the work that your team does on a daily basis – we simply couldn’t fault it. You have something very special going on there – box it up, keep it and treasure it. We hope that many more children experience what S has during their early years…..You should also reflect on what a brilliant team you are and be proud about what you do on a daily basis….from Auntie Sandy’s surgeries through to constant reassurance to parents who are new to parenthood – you help in so many ways that have such a massive impact on family life. Over the past 18 months, you have dealt with a once in a lifetime event, and you’ve done that with resilience, humility, and happiness at all times. Well done and congratulations to you all. All our love, G, A and S xx”
“Dear Auntie Sandy, Many thanks for your time today discussing my child; I really appreciated it. Lots to think about including many positive suggestions which I have already started to implement. You really made me reflect and for that I am very grateful…. Thank you” WP
“Good morning Ahlexi, Hope you are doing well among all the craziness! I stumbled across this … poetry on the theme of ‘pudding’! It made me think of our first visit to the Aunties and Auntie Sandy giving [child] a squeeze and calling him a ‘little pudding’- I just thought it was so sweet and such a loving and warm term of endearment!). I thought I would share this lovely memory I have of first coming to Aunties…… Thank you for all you are doing to keep everyone well looked after, safe and sane during this time! …it’s so clear to me that you have the well-being of the children AND the parents firmly at heart and are always going the extra mile (or extra hundred miles at that!)… VP”
“Hi Ahlexi …..I trust you all absolutely to make the best decisions for the kids. All our experience of Aunties have shown me that….I can’t recall a single decision you have made over all these years that I’ve felt was off the mark and have always been greatly reassured by your wise and balanced thinking. I’m also greatly reassured by your ability to listen to parents’ opinions but not be swayed by them away from what you think is right. That is real leadership and I value it greatly. I know you consider and examine every decision in depth… and you have my absolute trust and support…. PR”
“Dear Auncle Ahlexi, and the entire Aunties’ Family…. the absolutely unwavering love, care, and commitment you give to all the children is simply unbelievable. I struggle daily with the stress of what’s next and how do we cope, and to be doing the same and yet able to sing, dance, and have a smile on your face all the time really does deserve a medal. I just wanted to do something as a personal gesture of thanks and appreciation of everything that you do….. I hope you like the picture. It captures what I think everyone feels when they are there – a place of magic, fun and love. Keep smiling, your efforts are not going unnoticed PT”
“To Sandy, Vahik and all the wonderful Aunties, …… we first visited Aunties on the off-chance that we’d found nursery for our precious little boy. We didn’t find a nursery that day – we found a magical, wonderful home-from-home filled with a loving family. We couldn’t quite believe our good fortune…… What remained consistent was the huge amounts of care, attention and love shown to all the children, and we certainly think this is what helped T to grow and develop into the caring, sharing and loving little boy of whom we are so very proud…..Aunties is such a special place, not just for the children, but for the parents too, and it will always hold a special place in our hearts. We’ll pop back from time to time to say hello and get our “fix”. All our love, P,C and T.”
“Dear Aunties and Auncles, What an amazing milestone! You must be so proud of all you have built, children nurtured, and accomplishments made. Happy to be celebrating with you. Here’s to many more anniversaries! :)” Love L,L, JC
“… As an employee of the Nursery, I’ve been able to witness first-hand this unique organization entirely focussed on a learning programme to teach children to be well-rounded, kind, responsible, and environmentally-conscious little people who are deeply connected to the natural environment…… I’ve had the opportunity to continue with my formal education ….. and received world-class in-house training constantly in psychology, first aid, safeguarding, relationships, values – which I can say, without doubt, has made me a better person….. As part of the culture and values…. we are treated like family…..”
“I have known the owners of The Aunties since 1989, when my daughter started to attend as a baby. I knew from my first meeting….what has been reported by OFSTED, Investors in People, and various organizations over the years, that this is an exceptional facility. As a parent, they offer everything that you could wish for your own child – and more. Their emphasis on the individual, personal attention to each child, and passion about outdoor education make The Aunties unique……. wonderful for those who attended as pupils to look forward to sending their own children to this amazing place!” VM
“We appreciate your integrity and clarity of purpose. Thank you”, PK
“… Can I….just take the opportunity to say how wonderful the settling in process is at Aunties?! A had two weeks of settles and just did his first couple of days there this week, and has been so happy and comfortable there! I have also felt so supported by Sandy and the lovely Aunties about my feelings upon returning to work and leaving A! What a wonderful place! We are feeling so lucky that A is attending Aunties! Thank you again D and A”
“….The Aunties offer inspirational and fundamental outdoor learning opportunities for the children in their care in a way that is unique to them. Not only do these experiences produce self-esteem and confidence, they also promote understanding and respect for our local environment. In an age where there is concern over children’s disconnection from nature, this type of education is essential and often hard to find….. I have no doubt of the many benefits for the children that attend The Aunties in having such rich opportunities to be outside on a regular basis…..
There is much current research into the positive effects of the natural world on health and well-being, and, with the current focus on mental health, settings such as this will offer not only short-term learning for the children, but long-term positive outcomes for their health. In 2016, the RSPB ran a study….into correlations between children’s connection to nature and education, wellbeing, and action to save wildlife. They state: “The results of this pioneering research confirm the benefits on health, wellbeing, and even educational attainment of raising children, the future custodians of nature, with a sense of responsibility for, and kinship with, the natural world”….. A further study from the University of Plymouth found “many and varied benefits to children of living in the natural environment, not just from an educational perspective, but also in terms of their behaviour, social skills, health and wellbeing, resilience, confidence, and sense of place”.
The Aunties have always been highlighted as a leader in this field, offering exemplary practice – and this is supported by their recent connection with Professor Anders Szczepanski, Sweden, a recognized world expert in outdoor play for children. To gain the support of such a high profile expert demonstrates the regard in which their practice is held….. I know the Enjily family are passionate about what they do….” KC, Forest School Service
There is much current research into the positive effects of the natural world on health and well-being, and, with the current focus on mental health, settings such as this will offer not only short-term learning for the children, but long-term positive outcomes for their health. In 2016, the RSPB ran a study….into correlations between children’s connection to nature and education, wellbeing, and action to save wildlife. They state: “The results of this pioneering research confirm the benefits on health, wellbeing, and even educational attainment of raising children, the future custodians of nature, with a sense of responsibility for, and kinship with, the natural world”….. A further study from the University of Plymouth found “many and varied benefits to children of living in the natural environment, not just from an educational perspective, but also in terms of their behaviour, social skills, health and wellbeing, resilience, confidence, and sense of place”.
The Aunties have always been highlighted as a leader in this field, offering exemplary practice – and this is supported by their recent connection with Professor Anders Szczepanski, Sweden, a recognized world expert in outdoor play for children. To gain the support of such a high profile expert demonstrates the regard in which their practice is held….. I know the Enjily family are passionate about what they do….” KC, Forest School Service
“To all the Aunties and Auncles! Thank you for all of the love, care, and guidance you have provided for L and our family. We are very sad to be leaving you ….. As parents working in educational settings, we understand how important relationships are. The love, care, and guidance you provide, along with your attention to detail and the way you speak about L really highlight why he enjoys his time with you so much and the bond you created. Thank you for EVERYTHING! KCL and SWB”
“Good morning lovely Aunties and Auncles, we are very proud to have [our child] at such a unique and, frankly, incredible place. We see the results of how you look after him, love him and nurture his amazingness in his behaviour, confidence and joyfulness every day. Thank you so much……” RM
“Good morning lovely Aunties and Auncles, we are very proud to have [our child] at such a unique and, frankly, incredible place. We see the results of how you look after him, love him and nurture his amazingness in his behaviour, confidence and joyfulness every day. Thank you so much……” RM
Observations from baby signing experts “Little Signers Club”,
Little Signers Club is constantly developing its training provision for Early Years practitioners; on such occasions where we have new material that requires evaluating, The Aunties have been kind enough to allow us access to their highly-trained team. Their continuing feedback – and enthusiasm for our work – has proved invaluable. It ensures that our training is able to support the EYFS correctly as well as guarantee that our training is providing the right level of accessibility and information to inform the practice of other Early Years professionals throughout the UK.
Little Signers Club is constantly developing its training provision for Early Years practitioners; on such occasions where we have new material that requires evaluating, The Aunties have been kind enough to allow us access to their highly-trained team. Their continuing feedback – and enthusiasm for our work – has proved invaluable. It ensures that our training is able to support the EYFS correctly as well as guarantee that our training is providing the right level of accessibility and information to inform the practice of other Early Years professionals throughout the UK.
Last year, as a result of our continual re-evaluation and joint working practices with The Aunties, Little Signers Club was awarded Best Infant Sign Language Training Company (UK) in the 2016 Consultancy Awards. We also provide workshops for Childcare Expo (Coventry 2016 / London 2017) which have previously been ‘approved’ by the Aunties and which have been very popular at the Show. Over the years, Sandy has kindly reviewed other material for Little Signers Club which has gone on to be published internationally.
In my experience, The Aunties at The Aunties’ Old School Nursery are an outstanding example of dedicated staff who have a deep understanding of how the nurture of young children provides ‘peak’ learning experiences for all concerned (Maslow / Bloom). I am always welcomed with enthusiasm and interest; their dedication to the support of children, in any way that is required, is inspirational. It is my privilege to be able to work alongside them….” Shelley Ensor, Founder, Little Signers Club (UK / UAE)
“We leave Aunties with a very heavy heart…..We are so appreciative of all the care you have given … and know that they have both been extremely happy with you and all the Aunties. As we have tried nurseries as far away as Australia, I think that I have strong evidence that you are simply the best nursery in the world!!! Thank you again, Lots of love, TM”
“I am so grateful that we had the pleasure of Aunties in our lives for this important time of healing and growth. You are exceptional at how you care for children … and there are many children who need… you in their lives. May you always be well, blessed and receiving of all the love that you give out to others, With our heartfelt love and thanks MFH”
“Dear Sandy and Vahik, A very HUGE thank you for such a lovely party! The children had such a wonderful time, and I loved the Aunties inspirational performance! If you ever have enough of the nursery game you could always take to the stage!”
“Dear Aunties, thank you so much for everything… You have truly lovely, funny, happy personalities and every day I go to work with a smile having dropped the girls off. I feel truly blessed that our girls are looked after by you all. Thank you for the amazing job you do!”
“A conversation the other weekend at home:
“Daddy, when I go to the big school, what will I do at the weekends?”
“…… the usual things, like we do at the moment …”
“…… maybe I can go to The Aunties; then ….”
(It made us smile; it said a lot!)”
“Daddy, when I go to the big school, what will I do at the weekends?”
“…… the usual things, like we do at the moment …”
“…… maybe I can go to The Aunties; then ….”
(It made us smile; it said a lot!)”
“Dear Ahlexi, ….. we have been thoroughly impressed with the excellent care you and your staff have provided for T over the past two years, and have been delighted with the way he has blossomed under your thoughtful, respectful, and loving guidance. We very much appreciated your flexibility in organizing his move from Wheatley to Stanton, which was a great success, and we are very grateful for him having had such a wonderful start in life. There are so many ways in which you have helped make his time at the Aunties both fun and educational, and I am sure we will share some of these at his review meeting on Tuesday afternoon.
As an Attachment Therapist, J has been in awe of the way you manage to provide such a secure base for so many little ones. We will all miss the Aunties and will continue to recommend it to our friends and colleagues until you are flooded with the offspring of psychiatrists! ….. warmest thanks, J and JD
As an Attachment Therapist, J has been in awe of the way you manage to provide such a secure base for so many little ones. We will all miss the Aunties and will continue to recommend it to our friends and colleagues until you are flooded with the offspring of psychiatrists! ….. warmest thanks, J and JD
“Dear Ahlexi, Sandy and Vahik …. We are really loving having her in your nursery and already noticing how it is helping her take the next steps in her development and how confident and independent she is becoming. So I just wanted to thank you both for the love and care you so obviously put into the nursery and for your sensitivity and understanding of the children’s emotional needs (and the parents’!). Best wishes P
“Hi Sandy…. Your new logo is gorgeous; very apt as my first thoughts of ‘Aunties’ Nursery’ has always been children in their tog suits enjoying and exploring the great outdoors! Well done to whoever designed it!”
“Dear Aunties, Thank you all so much for looking after H for the past four years. She has had a wonderful time and has so many lovely memories of you, not forgetting her instructing us: “Hands in laps” and “Elbows of the table, darling” during meal times! I can’t quite believe our time with The Aunties has come to an end (sniff, sniff). Thank you once again, Lots of love, K,N,H and E”.
“Dear lovely Aunties, Thank you for all the care and love you’ve shown both our lovely girls and us. Thank you for everything you’ve taught them and for preparing them so well for big school. It’s been a fantastic six years and we’re so grateful for the brilliant start in life you’ve given them. We will miss you very much but we will always remember “a bushel and a peck and a hug around the neck, the Aunties love us!” With love and thanks, A, P, S and ER”
“Dearest Aunties, We can’t thank you all enough for the fantastic care you have provided for A and O. We are always greeted with smiles, enthusiasm and loads of energy, which is always a great start to the day. We want to say an extra special ‘thank you’ to Auntie Sue for helping A through a very difficult situation … her insight and experience along with her warm, encouraging way really helped us all! We will always be grateful. Thank you all for all your care, cuddles and laughter…We will always remember you and have lovely memories of our time with you. Thank you again for being so lovely and for enriching the lives of A and O. You might say you were just doing your job, but we think it fair to thank you for the really excellent care you give. You don’t have a magic wand, but a hard working team that goes ‘above and beyond’ in a world that is increasingly “I’m all right, Jack”. Your dedication and professionalism deserve this pat on the back. Dearest Aunties, we will never forget you. Thank you! All our love and hugs, F, M, A and O”
“To Aunty Sandy, Uncle Vahik and all the Aunties, Thank you for offering a service that is one in a million having given generations of little people the very best start in life over decades. We are so lucky to be part of your very special and extended family. With much love, TD and J J and N xxxxx”
“To our dear Aunties, Thank you so much for your loving care…..We really couldn’t have asked for more when we were looking for a nursery for our son. You have been a great source of advice on everything from J’s eating habits to his eczema. Aunty Sandy even correctly diagnosed hand, foot and mouth after the doctor had dismissed it the day before! The details that you notice and the dedication you show really are amazing; thank you! Also thank you to Auntie Sandy and Auntie Sue for being shoulders to cry on (literally!). All our love, J, J, S. F
“Dear Sandy….thank you so much for helping the NES [National Eczema Society] with this important article. I really feel your input will bring the article to life and the nursery angle is very important (although I fully appreciate that The Aunties’ Old School Nursery is Gold standard!)….” Education in Dermatology
“Hi Sandy, Hi Vahik, ….. My jaw dropped to the floor yesterday, I have never known such honesty and business fairness – truly amazing! … Thank you.”
“Dear Ahlexi, Sandy and Vahik ….. I thought it might be useful and timely to provide you some feedback. From the moment C and I first visited Aunties when looking for a nursery for T, we knew we’d found the perfect place. Our initial visit provided us a view of a friendly welcome, a clean and safe environment and caring staff. It just appeared such a happy environment and the children clearly enjoyed being there. Despite Aunties being a 20-minute drive in the wrong direction and other, less costly options available closer to home, our decision to choose Aunties was a very easy one. To our delight and amazement even our initial expectations were surpassed once T started actually attending Aunties. What we found was all the things we expected, but more incredibly seeing the love and care bestowed upon the children really did make us realise we had found somewhere truly special. The efficiency, care and love with which Aunties is run, is truly incredible. No matter who greets us at the front door, there is always, without exception a happy, welcoming greeting. The drop-off and pick up procedures are clearly defined, easy to follow and fully overviewed by the Auntie or Auncle on ‘reception duty’. As we’d expect, the handling of any medicine is done with upmost care and attention. The facilities are first-class with a fantastic garden with plenty of areas to discover, providing a never-ending canvas for their imagination. Feedback of T’s’ day from how well he’d eaten, what activities he’d undertaken and praise for things he’d done well, are very important to us and are always provided. The proof of the work you do with him through play, singing, reading, writing and numbers far exceeds what we ever expected. In fact his development in all these areas was plain to see when we recently introduced him to a local pre-school for some additional mornings. They were amazed at what he could do and what he had learnt, much of this thanks to Aunties. With the benefit of clearly defined and published activities at Aunties, we can follow the same themes with T at home which of course aides further development. To us, the true measure of the nursery is demonstrated in the way in which T loves attending Aunties, enjoying the varied, fun and enlightening days he spends in your care. We never cease to be amazed at the developmental changes we have seen during his time at Aunties, seeing first-hand when we drop him off and collect him how he interacts with the other children, forming friendships and the genuine love he has for all the Aunties… In our eyes, it really is a very magical place, and we are so very lucky to have found you and that it you are in easy reach of our home. Moreover, we too, in addition to T, have been made to feel a part of the Aunties ‘family’, with help, guidance and support provided to us whenever we needed it or asked for it. In summary, Aunties has proved and continues to prove to be an absolutely amazing nursery and thank you for looking after our precious little boy so well and helping us provide him with a perfect start to his life. With our warmest regards and enormous thanks for being ‘Aunties’..” C & P H
“Dear wonderful Aunties… You have been so absolutely fantastic – we feel so very lucky to have found you. The care, love, nurturing, learning, exploring, discipline and fun that you provide is amazing. Thank you for making our girls feel so cherished and encouraging them to be their kindest and best. With lots of love K P
“Dear Auntie Sandy, and all the Aunties, ….Suddenly I find it’s three years and a few months later and little 13 month old J is nearly 4 and a half and off to school! How did that happen?! We just wanted to thank you all so much for looking after J over the past 3 and a bit years. I don’t know if you remember, Sandy, but when I first met you I burst into tears – I had been back at work for a month and the childminder turned out to not really like children! J came to you and settled happily immediately – I particularly remember the way Auntie Sue asked J if she could pick him up and put him at his ease. I cried again when I left him with you for the first time – with relief! Thank you Auntie Sandy for your endlessly patient advice – I will miss your wisdom! You have all been a huge part of our lives for years – we will really miss you! Thank you! Lots of love, J,P,S and T.M”.
“The Aunties are excellent at recognising individual needs. They are very skilled in making a child feel important, valued, and well loved. I have no doubt when leaving my children that they will be treasured and nurtured all day.” A. and A.
“A parent leaving for logistical reasons wanted to provide the following reference: “… an excellent nursery. Having researched other forms of childcare Aunties offer many features which you don’t get with other childcare on offer… some of what is offered which I consider to be superior to other childcare offerings includes: (1) a large amount of outdoor play. Many other nursery providers offer outdoor play on a less consistent basis and my view having seen in other nurseries many children contained within a relatively small indoor space for what must be many hours (especially during the winter months) is that being outside is a good thing. My daughter loved it. (2) A daily timetable of activities which are of excellent quality and seem to happen more frequently than at other nurseries where they are a “special” event (or in some cases non-existent). Examples are cooking and baking, which all children regularly participate in, nature projects which all the children get involved in (birdbox, egg incubator, worms and caterpillar, etc), regular singing (my daughter teaches me songs she has learnt every night at bath time!) and listening to Classic FM every morning and book reading/ story time (which is particularly important for language skills). Some of these things do obviously take place with other childcare providers but at Aunties these types of things seem to be more ingrained in the culture. (3) Staff who appear to be more involved and personal in their care than at some other childcare providers. there is nothing more reassuring to a parent than to leave a child with a carer where they feel there is a personal bond being build or in existence with their child. Hearing both the carers and the other children at the nursery ‘calling out’ my daughter’s name as she walks into nursery in the morning and hearing her mention the names of some of her new child ‘friends’ … are some of the nicest feelings, that your child is more part of a family during the long hours of a working day. I would not hesitate to recommend Aunties” J.B.
“… I wax lyrical about The Aunties’ Old School Nursery at every opportunity and will continue to do so; don’t ever change. I love the way you cuddle the children and that you love each and every one as if they were your own. If only I could take you all with me! … Once again, thank you is just not a big enough word for how we feel about what you have done for us; we are so grateful”. A. and A.
“Dear Wonderful Aunties, We would like to thank you from the bottom of our hearts for the love and care you have given to A. over the last four years. Your nursery is the most fantastic, happy and nurturing environment for any child. A. has been so blessed to have had your guidance, affection and support, giving her so many qualities which will stand by her for the rest of her life. We cannot possibly say goodbye but will see you soon as we will visit frequently. We wish you all the very best and may The Aunties’ Old School Nursery and your work continue to flourish. All our love ” P. and J.
“Our dearest Aunties, Well, what can we say? Each of you is so special and you have lavished love, affection and kindness on us every day for years. We feel so fortunate to have had you in our lives surrounding our boys with so much love as in an extended family. Your dedication to the children and your commitment to maintaining exceptional standards in your nursery are amazing. Thank you for giving our boys such a brilliant head start; your educational techniques are wondrous to behold (how do you make digraphs such fun for 3 and 4 year olds?)! We could go on and on, but basically we know we could not have been part of a better nursery!!! We are going to miss you all so very, very much. You”re dear friends and we”ll never forget you. Lots of love…” V. and S.
“Dearest lovely Aunties, How much we will miss you all. You have been so wonderful to us all. L. has blossomed and learnt so much and enjoyed every moment with you. She”s so lucky to have had you as her friends…. We”ll be back … W. and C.
“What can I say? Thank you all so much for your kindness (to us and to the children): for caring; for calling H. “princess” (it always makes her smile); for teaching J. table manners!!; for giving me total peace of mind: and for giving our children five wonderful years of memories that will stay with them forever. Thank you, thank you, thank you!! We will miss you! With all our fondest love, M. and M.
“We would like to thank you and the other Aunties for the excellent care that you have provided for T. and K. … I have been very impressed by the happy, stimulating, family atmosphere that you create, and the emphasis on fun while also providing a learning environment.” L.P.
“E. has spent his most formative years in an environment which quite simply could not have been bettered…. A formal thank you from us both for not only caring for our child in a way that completely alleviated our anxieties, but also for helping us develop his personality in a manner which has always met with our absolute approval. Thank you too for your personal warmth in making all members of our family feel so welcome at every arrival and departure…. E”s departure will bring to an end the regular “socio-foodie” consultations…. It won’t be quite the same at the school gates … Once again, thank you all for everything. P. and M.N.
“Dearest Aunties, Thank you so much for all of the kind and loving care you provided. We feel incredibly lucky that she had the opportunity to attend such a wonderful nursery where each individual is made to feel so valued, important and loved…. The Aunties’ is such a special place… Thank you so much! K D and E S
“Dear Ahlexi, Sandy, and Vahik, I just wanted to thank you both for the love and care you so obviously put into the nursery and for your sensitivity and understanding of the children’s emotional needs (and the parents!). PK
“Thank you so much for helping me bring up O. You have taught him, loved him and supported him. You have given me the gift of being able to develop myself at a time when it could have been impossible. I couldn’t have hoped for anything more. Thank you for loving him. A. xxx”
“Dear Aunties, What a BIG THANK YOU we have to say to you. Thank you for giving T. such a secure, loving (and firm – when needed!) environment in which to blossom and grow in confidence. And thank you for all the invaluable parenting advice thrown in when times have been tough and exhausting. You gave us the confidence to keep going and low and behold things are getting easier. You are UNIQUE! We will miss you ALL. Much love K. and R.
“Sandy, you are a joy to work with and you deserve the accolades you have achieved” Children, Education and Families Directorate
“holistic development, emotional intelligence, and building self-esteem in and through a natural environment is central to The Aunties…. Oxfordshire Forest School Service
“holistic development, emotional intelligence, and building self-esteem in and through a natural environment is central to The Aunties…. Oxfordshire Forest School Service
“… I have taken great interest in the growth and development of the nursery. From a small and modest start it has developed into an outstanding example of what Nursery Education should be. This was recognised in the recent Ofsted inspection when the nursery received an excellent grade in all categories. From the outset the warm and caring relationship with children was apparent , as was the respect for each child as an individual, having emotional, social, physical and educational needs to be nurtured. This relationship is summed up in their other name “The Aunties”. This is not sloppy idealism but a family that cares for each other, where older children care for those who are younger, where sharing is important, as is the need for children to have the space and time to develop their own ideas…
Structured learning is there when the individual child is ready to progress at his or her own pace, but as in a family, you also do things together in small or large groups. Every opportunity is taken to exploit the natural surroundings of the site as a play area, and as a place for exploring the natural world. Sandy has a talent for producing an internal classroom with the collective art of the children as interesting as the outside world. Sandy also has the ability to enthuse parents, and her staff, who are trained to be as caring, encouraging and aware of each child’s individual needs as she is. I have no doubt that what she has achieved Mrs Enjily can replicate wherever she goes …”. P.H. (Long-standing educator)
Structured learning is there when the individual child is ready to progress at his or her own pace, but as in a family, you also do things together in small or large groups. Every opportunity is taken to exploit the natural surroundings of the site as a play area, and as a place for exploring the natural world. Sandy has a talent for producing an internal classroom with the collective art of the children as interesting as the outside world. Sandy also has the ability to enthuse parents, and her staff, who are trained to be as caring, encouraging and aware of each child’s individual needs as she is. I have no doubt that what she has achieved Mrs Enjily can replicate wherever she goes …”. P.H. (Long-standing educator)
Dear Sandy, Thank you so much for giving my three children such a wonderful start in life. You are always so kind, supportive, helpful and loving. I am so grateful to have met you and appreciative of your wonderful work. You truly are a special soul. With love, E.W. xx
Dear Aunties, Thank you so much for all your help and support over the last year. You’ve helped me to grow into a big boy ready to go to school. Your love and kindness have made nursery such a happy time for me.. I shall treasure many happy memories and the wonderful times I’ve had. It’s been a privilege to be part of the Aunties’ family and I’ll keep in touch to let you know how I get on in the future. With grateful thanks, love and best wishes from A.L.
All of the Aunties, You are all my heroes! Love L.
Dear Aunties, Thank you for all your hard work and loving kindness. You’re an outstanding example to all of us.,Love from I.R. XXX
To all the wonderful Aunties,….Since he joined you’ve transformed him in so many ways. He’s so much more confident and able to play with other children, and his reading and writing have amazed us! It’s quite something when your three year-old has to explain to you what a ‘digraph’ is… We’ve been amazed and delighted with the way you’ve looked after C, and also with the support and advice you’ve given us too. Neither we nor C. will ever forget the Aunties! Love, A., P., and C.
Dear Dr. Vahik and Auntie Sandy, …..A. told me one day (when I was picking him up from school: “I miss the Aunties…”. It gave me this heart-breaking but heart-warming feeling at the same time, as he misses you because he loves you very much…. A’s hands got cold burn at school a couple of weeks ago. That also made me think of you because that never happened while he was looked after by you (or by me!). It makes me appreciate even more now how well looked after he was…. I hope you are OK and I’m looking forward to seeing you soon.” L.V.
Over the past two years I have enjoyed an excellent working partnership with the owner/managers of The Aunties’ Old School Nursery, Sandy and Vahik Enjily and their staff. My role has been as assessor/trainer delivering Childcare NVQs and as the provider’s Department Manager. Both Sandy and Vahik support their staff 100% throughout their training…..’On the Job Training’ is effective, relevant and up to date, actively embracing the Early Years’ Foundation Stage Statutory Framework and using the Guidance. The Owner-Managers show clear effectiveness in leadership and management, putting the children and staff first as their prime focus of quality assurance and objectives to drive continuous improvements. During the two years I have been visiting the Aunties, I have seen the Wheatley ‘branch’ come to fruition, the staff becoming qualified and progressing into Foundation Degree study. This has brough about promotion and results in an effective and motivated team.
‘The Aunties’ offer an ideal environment in the support of training provision; qualified staff demonstrate best practice and are excellent role models… The nursery client group attracts children from multi cultures; this is reflected too in the staff recruitment and the outcome has been a vibrant mix of cultures, characters(!) and nationalities. Amongst the interest, challenge and stimulation, what shines out is: happy children enjoying a calm atmosphere where they feel cherished.
The care is of a family style where brothers and sisters can enjoy…playing and bonding. This is such an important nurturing aspect essential for our future society – completely lost in larger settings where the only practical solution is age separation – also ignoring the development benefits found in younger children observing older children, and older children helping and nurturing younger children….. Aunties is first choice by many families….For both children and staff it is a pleasurable environment for work and play. Haydon Training Business College
‘The Aunties’ offer an ideal environment in the support of training provision; qualified staff demonstrate best practice and are excellent role models… The nursery client group attracts children from multi cultures; this is reflected too in the staff recruitment and the outcome has been a vibrant mix of cultures, characters(!) and nationalities. Amongst the interest, challenge and stimulation, what shines out is: happy children enjoying a calm atmosphere where they feel cherished.
The care is of a family style where brothers and sisters can enjoy…playing and bonding. This is such an important nurturing aspect essential for our future society – completely lost in larger settings where the only practical solution is age separation – also ignoring the development benefits found in younger children observing older children, and older children helping and nurturing younger children….. Aunties is first choice by many families….For both children and staff it is a pleasurable environment for work and play. Haydon Training Business College
Dear Aunties, We would like to say THANK YOU! Thanks for the great time C. had with you. Thanks for your help, your kindness, your patience, your love – and all the little things we got from all of your over the years. You made our start here a lot easier than we thought it would be! We will never forget C’s nursery years! Because of your and your amazing work with our daughter, she is now a really German-British girl! See you over the fence! B.,J.,J., and of course C
Dear Aunties, A HUGE thank you for making me into such a happy person. I have loved being part of the family and look forward to my days with you. I have made good friends with people my own age and even some people mummy’s age! My mummy is a happier person too since I’ve been at Aunties. She says it is ‘cos she gets her own time without worrying about me too much! She says: “Could Aunties please open a school and university and then we’d be sorted?! Anyway, thanks for the hugs, love, kisses, the playing in the woods, the learning, the fun and the wonderful start you’ve given me. See you next week. Big kisses xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx C.O.
To The Aunties, …. what a beautiful place we come to each day … We wanted to say thank you for the wonderful job that you are doing … You make us feel warm and secure, loved and happy… this is one very special place to be! Lots of love from S and KF. xxx
Dear Auntie Sandy, Auncle Vahik and ALL the Aunties, We just wanted to say a huge thank you for looking after the boys so well. They have loved every minute of their time with you and will miss you all. Thank you, Sandy, for all your advice and support. Am still hoping one day we’ll be able to let you know that N is going to bed at a normal time! Love G, G, N and F.
Dear Aunties, Thank you for your caring, affectionate and kind approach and for looking after J and L so well … R, J, J and L xxxx
Dear All The Aunties, Thank you so very much for all the love and nurturing you have given to J…. Thank you for helping him to learn (and love), so many of the important things in life … exploring, singing, sharing, playing, learning, digging, splashing… and for making him feel so loved and cared for. With huge gratitude and love, A and DL
Only an Aunty can give hugs like a mother, keep confidences like a sister, and love like a friend. Thank you xxx
Only an Aunty can give hugs like a mother, keep confidences like a sister, and love like a friend. Thank you xxx
“Aunties was the best decision we have ever made as parents. It’s impossible to express how much your love, professionalism, compassion, knowledge, and attitude mean to us. Our hearts will forever be Auntie-shaped!!” R,R, L xxxxx
“We have been impressed by the Aunties, especially Sandy who runs the nursery, treating each child and family as individual and unique. They are a family and we have been cared for and considered as part of one. The hours of commitment and dedication that go into treating families and children with such care and consideration is phenomenal. We’ve had many long conversations discussing in depth every step of my children’s development and have found this support invaluable. The Aunties have managed to exceed our expectations on numerous occasions (which is incredibly hard to do!). As a result I asked Sandy if she would be interested in setting up a school with me. Unfortunately she declined as the nursery would have suffered. I have tremendous respect and admiration for the Aunties” ATL
“Dear Auntie Sandy and Uncle Vahik, We have been absolutely thrilled with our son’s care at the Aunties’ nursery since he started there at the age of 8 months. He is now 26 months and his excellent development so far is linked very closely to the time he spends at nursery. Led by the experienced, insightful and loving Sandy, all of the Aunties show great care and affection towards the children. They always seem to have a fresh outlook with new ideas to entertain the children ranging from all sorts of play, craft-work, cooking, dressing-up and of course playing outside (wrapped-up nice and warm!) in the great outdoor space they have. We had heard great things about the Aunties’ Nursery before our son started there and it was in fact one of the reasons we moved to the area. We were not disappointed. The settling in process was supportive and nurturing and ensured that his start at The Aunties went smoothly. We have been impressed with all aspects of his life and care at the nursery. The Aunties listen intently to any questions we have and are able to offer advice to us when we need it. We would not hesitate to recommend the Aunties nursery …”.
“To Sandy, Vahik, and Ahlexi, thank you for everything…You must be so very proud of the Nursery you have created. Your team are amazing, and we feel privileged to have our girls cared for by your Aunties. Thank you.”
“Thank you Aunties! I’ll come back to see the chicks and the snails and the fishes! Your activities are so good, and you have looked after me so well and given me lots of kisses and huggles. Lots of love, F”
“Dearest Aunties and Auncles, We can’t thank you enough for all the love you have poured into our child over the years. You really are an incredible and special bunch of people! …… Love from MRFI”
“Dear Ahlexi, Sandy, and Vahik, Thank you for the wonderful care and fantastic environment that you and your hardworking staff provided for our boys. We feel incredibly lucky to have been able to send our beloved boys to such a brilliant nursery. We are so grateful for the input you have all had on our lives during such a formative time. We will always remember the seven years we brought our boys to you with joy and fondness. It’s difficult to articulate just how big a part The Aunties have played in our lives, and the support and care that you offered was first-class. We remember particularly the support you gave to us by looking after the “key worker” children at the start of the pandemic, and we continue to recommend the nursery ‘far and wide’! We wish you every success for the future and plan to keep in touch with you!…. Lots of love, S and R”
“Dear Auntie Sandy and Auncle Ahlexi and all the amazing Aunties and Auncles, I just want to thank you all for EVERYTHING you have done to support our family…….the end is in sight to 4.20am starts and 9pm returns to my babies….. it has been an emotional and challenging two years…..which this family would not have made it through without you all. Knowing my babies were safe, loved, cuddled, and happy was at times the only thing that made it all bearable. The worry and fears of running late on the bus, missing my bambinos in the evening, terrified it would have a long term effect on them, was all dissipated by your amazing team of wonderous caring Aunties who were always full of kindness, reassurance, and love. You were our ‘constant’ in an unstable, uncertain, and emotionally-charged time. Your faces and the smiles on my babies’ faces made a harrowing shift in Intensive Care bearable. You have all been so kind to all of us, not just our children, but to us as well. Thank you to all of you, for everything …. Never underestimate how valued you are and how amazing and highly we think of you all. With love, always. N xx”
“Dear Aunties, We love you!! You have been part of our lives for almost a decade now and we certainly don’t intend this to be a goodbye. Thank you for everything! Quite honestly, we can’t even begin to put in words how much you mean to us. We just wouldn’t be the same family without you! We’ll miss you so much but we’ll be back and very much staying in touch. Love and huge hugs, P,P,E and S xxxxx”
“To all our wonderful Aunties and Auncles, Thank you for all your love and nurturing over the past 10 years It has been an absolute pleasure to have worked with each and every one of you. You are truly all the most amazing team, and your love of the children is second to none. The boys have been so cared for and have grown into little people with the best imaginations and outlook to the world. Keep up all your amazing work. Thank you again for being my family. Lots of love, L, N P”
“Dear Aunties ….. thank you in person for everything you have done this past year. COVID aside, you welcomed our babies into your loving arms and engulfed them in your love, making our transition from London to Oxford so much easier. You have cuddled us all, taught our babies so much and supported us through so much, I’m beyond words… you have only ever put our children first, uncompromising with your love and dedication and I am beyond words of gratitude. Thank you for all of it. Thank you for loving my babies, for teaching my babies and for supporting us all…… With huge amounts of love, M xxxxxxxxxxxxxx”
“Hi Ahlexi……… the way that you, as a business, have behaved since Lockdown began – at the risk of sounding old fashioned – is a really honourable way of doing business. Thank you!! SLN”
“To all the Aunties, Tonight [our children] stayed up a little later than usual and we stood in our garden and we clapped for YOU. We clapped for YOU … who have changed our lives so much and who we cannot imagine life without. We clapped for YOU Auntie Sandy and Auncle Vahik for creating and sharing the most wonderful thing in our lives; we don’t know what we do without you. And we especially clapped for YOU Auncle Ahlexi for your unbelievable courage, enthusiasm and kindness…. Something that brings a tear to my eye regularly and something that I will never be able to articulate my gratitude for. Thank you. Love always, LNM”
“Dear Ahlexi, Sandy & Vahik, … thanks to you all for your amazing dedication, detail and professionalism in keeping us parents updated…your very hard work and total commitment … the way you have kept the children protected… I appreciate the huge number of hours … you must all be working to keep on top, and often ahead, the way you have done. THANK YOU VERY MUCH. Wishing you all much love and support. MMMM ”
“Auncle Ahlexi, what can I say?….. honestly, you are a true hero! Such a difficult decision you have been forced to make in parting from your pregnant wife and young child to protect them and to be able to keep the nursery going for keyworkers….. I wish it was something you had never had to do but it only proves what a great man Vahik and Sandy have raised and what a wonderful dad and husband you are. I admire you so much!…. please know, Auncle Ahlexi, that you are doing the most amazing job and we’re so very grateful” MJ
“We love the outdoor activities and fun The Aunties have outside. This is missing in most nurseries all over the world…. The most important thing that is so good about this nursery is that parents are in charge of what our children are eating….. The Aunties have become our family; they treat our children like their own. This nursery is amazing!” KPH
“Dear Ahlexi, Vahik, and Sandy….my heartfelt thanks…. The Aunties have been a huge part of our children’s and our lives for so many years. We know that the loving kindness and dedication which you and your team have shown [all our children] and your care and desire to encourage all aspects of their development has had a lasting impact on them, and one which will help them greatly in the years ahead. And, of course, who could forget the support and care that you gave us when life was very bumpy for quite some time. Your faith and patience was humbling. You should know that there is a lot of room in our hearts and we shall carry you with us, always. With much love and the greatest respect, KB”
“Dear Vahik, Sandy, and Ahlexi,…you have been such an enormous part of our lives for more than 15 years!……I am so thankful to have met you all and for our family to be part of the ‘Aunties’ Family’. It is so important to make a difference in this world, and I know our children have had a fantastic grounding with your wonderful ethos of kindness and love, and, of course, curiosity and interest in people and the world around us. Lots of love”, CKB
“Dear Vahik and Sandy …. I want to thank you from the bottom of my heart for all the love and care you have given to all my children over the last fourteen years. They are all blossoming into wonderful characters which is due, in no small part, to their wonderful time at the Aunties. They all talk so fondly of their time with you, and it has been a great topic of conversation around our dinner table “what was your favourite day at the Aunties?” I know R. will really miss you. I am sure he will be back in the school holidays for a “bushel and a peck and a hug around the neck”! I am also going to miss you – I can’t imagine life without the woods, tog suits, “down at the station” (which we sing at home as we climb the stairs to bed) and all the other lovely songs we’ve learnt over the years. I do hope we will keep in touch and share some great Early Years practice as time goes on.”. Love C”
“Dear lovely Aunties and Auncles, Thank you so much for all your hard work, love, and nappy changes….. We’ve loved our first year as part of the Aunties’ family, and know W has too. Congratulations as well on a monumental year – what a wonderful achievement for you all, receiving the Platinum Employer of the Year award from Investors in People – W really is in safe hands…. See you soon for more madness and mayhem! Lots of love, S,A,W,E”
“Dear all, Your Platinum Employer of the Year award is very well deserved. The Aunties’ Nursery is brimming with amazing, dedicated, wonderful people who make my little girl’s journey through her early years not only fun and loving but special and magical. You guys are simply the best!” MP
“Dearest Aunties, Thank you so much for the wonderful and warm welcome you gave us today after eleven years! It put a smile on all our faces all day! I can’t thank you enough for the beautiful start you gave the girls in their life, instilling the confidence, compassion and openness to the world around them. You are legendary and we will definitely come again, hopefully with other alumni! From the bottom of our hearts, a huge thank you. With much love, as ever, C, L, A ((((-: ”
“Dearest Auntie Sandy, Auncles Vahik and Ahlexi and all the wonderful Aunties and Auncles at Nursery. Thank you for the most wonderful time in your magical woods. Thank you for all the love and support you have given H. Thank you for giving H. an amazing start of her adventure. With much love and thanks from us all, HMT and J”
“Dear Aunties, Here is a picture. We still talk about the best nursery on the earth: The Aunties! Lots of love E,P,B,E” (from a family who left two years previously to return to Europe)”
“Dear Sandy ….The Aunties is an extraordinary place. We feel so lucky!”
“Dear Ahlexi, Vahik, and Sandy…..The Aunties’ Nurseries demonstrates strength in the management, operational and regulatory spheres, as well as being robust…. I have also been impressed with your innovative strategy planning……” RW
“If Carlsberg did nurseries, The Aunties would definitely be it!!” LS
“Dearest Sandy…. thank you for all your time and expertise yesterday. We truly appreciated your spending so long answering our questions and introducing us to life with “The Aunties”. We cannot tell you how thoroughly impressed we were with absolutely everything….. we both felt excited … and so lucky to have an environment we adore so much!! …Thank you so much for making us so happy! ….. KMAW”
“Dear Auncle Vahik……. The Aunties is the warmest, loveliest nursery with the best staff I have come across …; thank you!….” KC
“Dear Vahik, Sandy, and all the Aunties, Thank you for every cuddle, every laugh, every song, every conversation and play you have given – all so very precious… We both work in the corporate world of large “successful” big business. I was on a workshop to develop department vision and strategy and did a session where we were asked to talk about other companies’ visions as examples … I wanted to tell you my example”:
“I send my children to a small, independent nursery called ‘Aunties’ and their simple mission is to make every child’s life happy. Their whole model, all of their processes, all of their design and all of their recruitment is based round that simple mission and it is never compromised. Sandy no doubt runs a tight ship, but clearly gains from all the people who work for total respect, utter dedication and enthusiasm – because they too buy into this mission. Children’s emotional development and happiness is at the heart of her business and that is an inspiring model.”
“I send my children to a small, independent nursery called ‘Aunties’ and their simple mission is to make every child’s life happy. Their whole model, all of their processes, all of their design and all of their recruitment is based round that simple mission and it is never compromised. Sandy no doubt runs a tight ship, but clearly gains from all the people who work for total respect, utter dedication and enthusiasm – because they too buy into this mission. Children’s emotional development and happiness is at the heart of her business and that is an inspiring model.”
“Dear Sandy, Thank you very much for the kindness and generosity which you showed to me and my family when we most needed it. Your warmth and thoughtfulness really marked a turning point for us all after a horrible few months, and I will always remember the part that you played with your sensitivity, professionalism and love… There really isn’t anyone else that I would trust as much with my children, which is the highest compliment that I can pay you.” Thank you all and lots of love to you all. L.N.
Dear Aunties, I can’t begin to express the support you have been in my life… from those early days of parental anxiety to the ongoing…journey and all its challenges, you have never failed to see me, or support me in my grief and in my triumphs. Thank you for everything; you have seen us through an incredibly challenging time in our lives, and as we move into a new arena.- I will miss the support and the hugs that I knew I would always receive from you. Thank you from the bottom of my heart MH
“Dear Auntie Sandy and Auncle Vahik, ….. I honestly can’t thank you enough for all you have done for F. I, and J, who have all had the very best possible start with the Aunties – and we all continue to benefit from the love and care that you have given them (and us!). Thank you for being part of our extended family! With love and best wishes, J”
“Dear Sandy and Vahik… a very, very Big Thank You for looking after our little treasure so well over the past two years. We quickly knew we could count on your highly professional support and approachable and caring personalities, which were always so important to us. You should proud of the wonderful, nurturing environment that you have created…through your hard work. You manage an outstanding team. Also a special Thank You for your accurate guidance and undoubtedly sound advice during the tougher times, “polite tantrums” and all… (around a friendly cup of tea….!). Finally, a special Merci for your constant, strong support towards our choice of bilingual upbringing for our child. Like our daughter, our gratefulness mustn’t be underestimated. With our love and best wishes M M M Q”
Dear Aunties … What can I say after all these years of loving, stimulating and supportive care? …. and that’s just the boys …. I learned lots, too. Thank you very much from the bottom of my heart” …. “you opened our minds”
“Dear Aunties…. Thank you so much …… for the careful care and consideration that you and the Aunties have of the children’s well-being and development at such an important time in their lives. I was very taken with the tender caring philosophy and the variety of opportunities for learning, indoors and outdoors, that are available to the children who spend time at your nursery.” (April)
“Auncle Ahlexi, Auntie Sandy, Auncle Vahik, and all the amazing Aunties, It is with a heavy heart that we say ‘Goodbye’ to the most incredible nursery. H has thrived thanks to the constant input of each and every one at the Aunties. He loves nursery days – and the things he has learned amaze us. Every aspect of the Aunties is grounded in excellence and the hard work of you all means we have a happy, inquisitive, thoughtful, caring and sensitive little boy. You really can take credit for such important parts of his development. Every morning we are greeted with such warmth, it really sets us up the for the day. There is always sound advice and support when we have needed it. There is so much to thank you for – too much to properly express. You all have a special place in our hearts and we will miss you all beyond measure. Thank you loads and loads and tons and trillions!!! You’re the bestest! With all our love, E,S,M and H”
“Hi Ahlexi, It was an absolute pleasure meeting you all on Saturday. You and Sandy have an amazing group of staff and your nursery was beautiful. I thoroughly enjoyed the training and am glad that you found it useful. And the curry was superb!” Children’s Support Worker, OSCB Trainer
“Dear All the Aunties and Auncles! Thank you so much for all your wonderful care, love, nurturing, learning and fun times you have given C. over the last three years. I cannot believe our small and crawling 12 month old is now four and a half and off to school; where has the time gone? We are very sad to leave you all and will miss you so much, but are eternally grateful for the wonderful start you have given her. With lots of love and thanks A,A, C and J”
“Dear Aunty Sandy, Auncle Vahik and all the Amazing Aunties, A huge ‘Thank You’ for inviting us to join you in celebrating decades of fabulous care. In true ‘Aunties” style the whole event was superb – good food, entertainment, company and even weather (eventually!). It was lovely to see everyone having such fun and, as always, you had the children at the heart of the event. M and H have not stopped talking about it and H even has his balloons tied on to his bedside table. It was a joy to be part of it and we wish you every success for the future. With all our love, E, S, M and H”
“Only The Aunties could carry off a garden party in torrential rain with such style and aplomb!”
“To Auncle Ahlexi, Auntie Sandy, Auncle Vahik, Auntie Sue, and all the other Aunties, Thank you so much for all you have done for I. She is a complex little character and you have done so much for her confidence, her happiness and her progression. She has come on so much and endlessly chats about life at the Aunties and all her friends there. Much love to you all, M, A, W, I xxxx”
“Dear Mrs Enjily, I read with interest and pleasure your outstanding Ofsted report and would like to send my congratulations to you and your staff. You must be delighted that all the hard work and dedication you and your staff have shown has resulted in this excellent inspection report. To achieve outstanding is a testament to the work you all carry out on a daily basis.
I noted the following details in your report that are particularly impressive:
I noted the following details in your report that are particularly impressive:
- The quality of teaching is exceptional because the staff have an in-depth knowledge of how children learn. Staff complete comprehensive assessments and plan effectively for individual children to ensure they make outstanding progress in their learning.
- Staff willingly review each other’s practice so staff confidently feedback honestly to each other.
- The staff plan for the children to spend most of the day in the fresh air to boost their physical health.
You and your staff must feel immense pride and satisfaction in knowing that you have given the children in your care the best possible start in live. I congratulate you all…….. Director for Education, Children and Families, Oxfordshire County Council
“Dear Sandy and Vahik, ……We will always hold you all dear to our hearts. Your nursery is a very special place, and we feel very fortunate that a very important part of our children’s lives has been spent with you…….a sincere thank you for all you have done for us over the past six years” MAK
“Dear Sandy, Following the recent review of M, K and S, I would just like to feedback what a positive and insightful experience it was. Whilst your observations of our children mirrored how they are at home, you were able to provide another perspective on the underlying factors that impact on their development and manifest in their behaviours, which was very helpful. I do believe that your ability to do this is very much enhanced by the fact that all members of staff engage with, observe and assess the children, rather than one member of staff under a traditional key worker system. This gives the children an opportunity to interact with staff who will differ in their approaches and personalities, whereby they can show different sides of their own little personalities and gel in different ways with staff. I do not think they would benefit from the same richness of experience under a different system. Our continued thanks for taking such excellent and genuine care of our little ones. As you know, my recent unhappy experience of a preschool provider has only served to highlight what outstanding levels of care, support and education you provide. Best wishes, LP”
“Dear Vahik and Sandy, … We have been so thrilled with C’s time at the Aunties – your great ethos at the Aunties has had a lasting impact on him, which we’re sure will follow him for many years – particularly his love of the outdoors – he makes us take him out come rain or shine – and is fascinated by all things he sees outside, which we just love! Thank you so much for being so brilliant and helping us when “new” parents learn how to cope!! Thank you for everything. B and V”
“Dear Vahik and Sandy, we’d like to congratulate you and all your staff on your outstanding achievements in obtaining Gold Investors in People, ISO 9001 accreditation, Parliamentary Yearbook nomination and Food Hygiene ‘5’ rating. It’s a testimony to you, Sandy and Vahik and all your wonderful staff that such achievements have been reached. You must be very proud – and so you should be! [We] are so grateful that we literally chanced upon Aunties….. in your care he is growing and developing into a confident, outgoing and considerate little boy….. We are equally proud of The Aunties and tell everyone we meet with children just how good and how lucky we are to have such a wonderful nursery … Thank you for your ongoing support and, most importantly, for looking after our little boy with such diligence and love”. PH
“To all the Aunties, Thank you so much for making the last three years such fun for F. The minute I walked into your nursery I knew that this was the place I wanted him to be. Thank you all for your hard work, passion and commitment. Thank you also for your part in enabling F. to grow into a happy and confident boy. Thank you Sandy for taking the time to understand F. and for supporting us through what has been the most wonderful but also difficult three years. Lots and lots of love, L, T and F.S”.
“To All the Aunties, Thank you for all the kindness and loving care you have shown to A. over the last three years. In every respect she has been handled with wisdom, understanding, fun and love. The Aunties is a very special place indeed …you redefine the ‘gold standard’. Thank you from the bottom of our hearts”. K. S. and A.S.
“To all the Aunties, Congratulations on a first-class nursery. The care, love and stimulation that you have all given to O. has been truly wonderful. This has been reflected by the tremendous progress O. has made in all areas of his development since being with you. Moving O. to your nursery was one of the best decisions we have made. We wish you many more years of success and will carry on highly recommending you to anyone looking for the best nursery education for their child. Love …. R. and M.
“I particularly like: the family atmosphere, caring, lovely varied activities, plenty of fresh air, children well taught in foundation skills and beyond, daily feedback.” L. and D.
“Dear Aunties, thank you so much for looking after S. You are all so kind and loving and she has been so happy with you. If only more children (and their parents!) were lucky enough to spend time with you, how different life might be. The Aunties’ Old School Nursery is a very special place and we will miss it very much. With special thanks and love … L. and S.”
“To all the Aunties, Thank you so much for being wonderful and kind and understanding. Lots of love, A.and D.
“Dear Sandy, thank you for all the love and devotion you put into The Aunties’ Old School Nursery to make it the special place that it is. We have really grown to appreciate and wonder at the joy you have created around you. Thanks for the time and the understanding you give to us as parents – I will really miss our little chats. … With thanks and love for everything. A. and F.”
“To the Aunties, Thank you for all your encouragement, guidance, inspiration and patience. Thank you also for the great care and dedication you put into your nursery… M. and C.
“Thank you Aunties for absolutely everything! Thank you for providing M. and J. with a great start to their education, for all the fun times they had. Thank you for all your love and your cuddles. Thank you for being ”Super Aunties” and we will miss you. All our love …… J. and D.
“To all the Aunties, We have so much to thank you all for, it”s difficult to know where to start! Just over two years ago a tiny toddler arrived at The Aunties’ Old School Nursery – the bright, happy, confident child we all know now owes so much to your efforts, expertise and, most of all, the love you have shown her over that time. We are great believers in pre-school education and we both feel that our G. has had the best possible pre-school care and a wonderful start in life as a result. She is a very lucky little girl, and will always be grateful. C. and I.
Words by a 5 year old child: “Dearest Aunties, Have a nice day. Goodbye Sweet Aunties. Lots of love, A”
“I cannot express the extent of our gratitude for the wonderful loving care you have given in the last two years. The flexible approach in accommodating our changing needs has been much appreciated. S. is a very special little girl thanks to your loving and spiritual guidance…. I have been searching high and low for a suitable nursery for F. and the lack of success to date underpins what we have always felt. The Aunties’ Old School Nursery is unique – both in size and setting but more importantly in the attitude of the proprietors. Any children at your school become an extension of your family. Thank you.” P . C.
“To Aunties. I love you lots. Love V.” “Dear Aunties, I loved my time at nursery, I wish I could go again. Love S.” “I think the children”s messages say it all. Love L. and P.
“I particularly love your professional staff, expertise, good personalities, good environment for learning, displays, resources, location, access to different learning materials, forward thinking management.” C.B.
“Many thanks for looking after our son so well. He has thoroughly enjoyed himself and learnt a great deal during his four years with you. His only complaint is that he can”t go every day!!! With best wishes and thanks C.J.
“It has always be a slight anachronism to drive out of Oxford to go to nursery, but the loving care which the girls have benefited from has made it completely worthwhile.” W. and N.B.
“… thank you for your loving care of H; he is deliriously happy with you.” E. H-C.
A parent’s experience of The Aunties
We have been very happy with our experience of the Aunties. Our son has been there for two years now, since he was 12 months old. We are watching him grow-up into a thoughtful, caring and independent-minded little boy. He constantly surprises us with what he knows and we are excited to see how he develops in these pre-school years, especially since his recent tonsillectomy. To try to capture why we feel so confident with the Aunties:
Regular contact with the senior members of staff (particularly Sandy, whenever requested) is a very valuable resource – parenting advice and tips are combined with a genuine sense that the Aunties know your child as a specific and individual person, with their own character, strengths and foibles. This confidence is carried through by the careful recruitment of the Aunties themselves…who do their job with professionalism, love and enthusiasm – the degree to which always surprises me! It is, after all, a long day with a lot of other peoples’ young children … The support of The Aunties with respect to my child’s ENT difficulties has been invaluable – it gave me the confidence to push for the right care from the GP and the NHS. We have therefore had his tonsils out already and can now concentrate on his pre-school development, unencumbered by difficult breathing. I observe that all the staff – senior and junior Aunties – treat each other with respect and care, which is absolutely the sort of role modelling I appreciate. (Incidentally, I have never seen an Aunty smoke near the building. A small point, but I have seen this at other places …). We specifically chose The Aunties’ because of its size (small) as well as its ethos. The size means that my child is surrounded by children of all ages, hence (I believe) his easy acceptance of his new baby sister because he is used to babies. He also did not have to suffer the very real trauma of moving rooms at a certain age, as in larger nurseries, because there are no distinctions. To me, The Aunties’ Old School Nursery appears to ‘glide’ along, with the children doing all sorts of different activities each day and with one-on-one time as well (for parents and children!). It is clear that this does not just happen; it is the result of careful planning and strong leadership, which benefits the children and staff alike. S.T.
We have been very happy with our experience of the Aunties. Our son has been there for two years now, since he was 12 months old. We are watching him grow-up into a thoughtful, caring and independent-minded little boy. He constantly surprises us with what he knows and we are excited to see how he develops in these pre-school years, especially since his recent tonsillectomy. To try to capture why we feel so confident with the Aunties:
Regular contact with the senior members of staff (particularly Sandy, whenever requested) is a very valuable resource – parenting advice and tips are combined with a genuine sense that the Aunties know your child as a specific and individual person, with their own character, strengths and foibles. This confidence is carried through by the careful recruitment of the Aunties themselves…who do their job with professionalism, love and enthusiasm – the degree to which always surprises me! It is, after all, a long day with a lot of other peoples’ young children … The support of The Aunties with respect to my child’s ENT difficulties has been invaluable – it gave me the confidence to push for the right care from the GP and the NHS. We have therefore had his tonsils out already and can now concentrate on his pre-school development, unencumbered by difficult breathing. I observe that all the staff – senior and junior Aunties – treat each other with respect and care, which is absolutely the sort of role modelling I appreciate. (Incidentally, I have never seen an Aunty smoke near the building. A small point, but I have seen this at other places …). We specifically chose The Aunties’ because of its size (small) as well as its ethos. The size means that my child is surrounded by children of all ages, hence (I believe) his easy acceptance of his new baby sister because he is used to babies. He also did not have to suffer the very real trauma of moving rooms at a certain age, as in larger nurseries, because there are no distinctions. To me, The Aunties’ Old School Nursery appears to ‘glide’ along, with the children doing all sorts of different activities each day and with one-on-one time as well (for parents and children!). It is clear that this does not just happen; it is the result of careful planning and strong leadership, which benefits the children and staff alike. S.T.
“Dear Sandy and team… words really cannot express our family’s gratitude. Our children are so much better people for having known you and been cared for by you, and for that we will always be in your debt. Needless to say we will miss you and speak of you often. Lots of love, C. and I. J.”
“Dear Sandy, Thank you for all your love and support. L. has flourished whilst at The Aunties and will take all that she has learnt with her. My first experience ‘going it alone’ with my precious little girl was made so much easier by you and I will cherish the memories and recollect so many of your wise words of advice. Your guidance, compassion and care I will always remember and truly appreciate. . Thank you again. With much love, L. XXX”
To all the Aunties, Today little B. moves on in her life’s journey. The Aunties’ Old School Nursery has been her most special place. Hold her tight in your memories and know that she will shine because each of you gave her your love. Thank you! SSC. xxx
Dear Aunties, Thank you very, very, very, very, very, very, very, very Much … and thanks again! I will always love you. Don’t forget me. Love, B. xxx
Dear Aunties, Friends for life … We mean it. Love A., B., T.W.
My first visit was a joy. Sandy and the staff have the children’s needs at heart and provide a very high quality of care and learning opportunities. The environment is well designed both inside and outside. It has a calm, warm and inviting feel. Children play and sleep outside as much as possible and they have equipment that allows them to do this in all weathers. Sandy pays particular attention to training the staff and she requires a high level of commitment from them. The children form good attachments to the staff. Sandy together with her team are reflective about their practice and she discussed some of the many ideas implemented and ones planned for the future. (Early Years’ Advisory Teacher, Oxfordshire County Council)
Aunties, Thank you for your care and dedication over the last five years with both of my children. What you do is not a job, it’s a vocation. Many thanks, C, M, C and G.W.
Aunties, Just a quick note to say a huge “thank you” for looking after M. so fantastically well for the past three years. She has been so lucky to be cared for in such idyllic surroundings, by people as committed as you, who so clearly enjoy what some of us might find incredibly challenging! She really has flourished during her time at…Nursery and – thanks to you – is more than ready to make the exciting move to “big school”! I know she is keen to come and visit in her uniform to tell you all about it – what a shock the concrete jungle of Summertown will be after the woods, fields and farmland of Stanton St John!. Bx
I have been delivering NVQ Children’s Care, Learning and Development Levels 2 and 3 with The Aunties’ Old School Nursery members of staff for many years, visiting both settings on a regular basis. The settings have an amazing warm and loving atmosphere which shows respect for all staff, parents and children…All the staff are trained to a very high standard with ongoing support by not only management but by using a mentoring system which gives staff a feeling of being really valued. All staff are encouraged and supported to partake in developing themselves to increase and improve their knowledge and understanding of working in childcare; training days are regularly offered in-house and on external courses. Activities and resources offered to the children are varied and well planned and the children have lots of opportunity for freedom of choice in activities they take part in. All the children are in the same room, which gives a lovely family feel, allowing the older children to role model and younger children to learn through the older ones. Health and safety procedures are followed at all times to extremely high standards by all staff. I really enjoy my visits to the nurseries as standards are never compromised. Oxfordshire Adult Learning, Oxfordshire County Council
‘To all the Aunties (and Auncles!), Congratulations on another ‘Outstanding’ Ofsted report, which is thoroughly deserved. As children and parents of your nursery, we know what a fantastic environment it is, but we’re delighted that it has been formally recognized as such. Well done! Love from C, P, M & S. C.’
‘Dear Sandy … We can’t thank you enough for all you have done and continue to do for K. and for all the support you have given us too over the last 3+ years. We will keep in touch for your expert advice with much love, G, M and K Y’
To Sandy, Sue and all the other wonderful Aunties, Thank you so much for all the wonderful memories you have given S; they will last a lifetime! I know how much love, her work and sheer determination goes into making them and for that R. and I are truly grateful. Thank you for making S’s time with you so special. You are all AMAZING!! You’re the best. Love A., R., S., and T.J. xxx
To all my wonderful Aunties, Thank you for everything you have done for me. I have had a wonderful time and learnt so much. I will miss you all and all my lovely friends. Lots and lots of love, M – AOSN Graduate
To all the Aunties, I can hardly believe how brilliant you are. Thank you SO much for everything you have done for M. over the past four years. He has absolutely loved his time at the Aunties, making great friendships, some of which may be life-long. We have enjoyed watching him grow in confidence and hearing all about his ‘adventures’. With our love and heart-felt thanks, C. and P.C.
To the wonderful Aunties, Moving M. from her nursery in London to start afresh in Oxfordshire was a bit of a worry. From day one, you have all been fantastic and have completely and utterly lived up to our hopes. M. loves you all and has been so very happy at The Aunties. Thank you for loving her, cajoling her, inspiring her, playing with her, laughing with her, teaching her and helping her to be her best self. We cannot thank you enough. With MUCH love, K and JP. xxx
Dear Sandy, Vahik and The Aunties, Many, many thanks for your help and support during the recent difficult time. We really appreciated your thoughtfulness and “extra mile” to help. It is lovely to have this ‘family’ for our boys – who are thriving. Thanks again, with love, JB.
Dear Sandy, Thank you for all your love and support. L has flourished whilst at The Aunties and will take all that she has learnt with her. My first experience ‘going it alone’ with my precious little girl was made so much easier by you, and I will cherish the memories and recollect so many of your wise words and advice. Your guidance, compassion and love I will always remember and truly appreciate. Thank you again. With much love, L xxx
Dear Auntie Sandy, Auncle Ahlexi, and Auncle Vahik, We all wanted to say a great big thank you everything you have done for W. We will all miss Aunties! When I finally decided it was time for W to start, you took such care in ensuring that he and I were all right at every stage. I have therefore never since worried about W for a single minute when at The Aunties as we have always known how much you care for him. He has made some lovely little friends … We will all, as a family, take away important little mantras: “quiet voices inside, loud voices outside”, “inside legs; running outside, walking inside”, “down at the station …!” “The Aunties love you a bushel and a peck and a hug around the neck!”…You have all certainly given W a sense of structure and how some things “just are”, how important it is to think about others, and general manners and courtesy. It is all so closely allied to our own family beliefs that W being at The Aunties has just worked! We owe a debt of gratitude … to you both for always listening, always taking time to chat about W and the family, and your love for W. Love M, A, W and I xxxxxxxxxx