Important Information For Parents and Guardians
Information in this section is provided for your reference. If you cannot find the information you are looking for, please don’t hesitate to get in touch either by telephone, email or via our contact form and someone will be glad to help.
We welcome any suggestions for how we can make this area more helpful for parents and guardians, so please let us know if you have any feedback or suggestions about how we can improve.
The Leaps and Bounds Ethos
At Leaps and Bounds we are more than just a nursery – we are a warm, nurturing community where your child’s happiness and development come first. As a private nursery we are dedicated to providing personalised care and education for children aged 6 weeks to primary 1 entry, ensuring that every little one feels safe, valued and encouraged to thrive.
We take pride in our family-oriented approach, warmly welcoming parents to be a part of their child’s early learning journey. We believe that a strong partnership between home and nursery helps children flourish, building their confidence, independence and love for learning from the very start.
Our caring and experienced team is passionate about supporting each child as they explore, play and discover their unique potential. Through engaging activities, a nurturing environment and a focus on kindness and respect, we help children develop essential life skills that prepare them not just for school, but for a bright future beyond.
The early years are a magical time of rapid growth and discovery and we cherish every moment of this journey. By truly listening to and understanding each child, we gain meaningful insights into their world – allowing us to support their development in the most thoughtful and enriching way.
We would love to welcome you and your child to the Leaps and Bounds family, where every day is filled with laughter, learning and new adventures!
We Believe in Every Child
Frequently Asked Questions
Below are some of the questions we are asked most often. If your question is not answered please don’t hesitate to get in touch with the Leaps and Bounds team.
How do I register my child?
If you would like to register, find out more about the nurseries, breakfast/afterschool clubs or arrange a visit, please get in touch with us by:
email – adleaps@outlook.com
or
call us on 0131 339 1490 (Drum Brae) or 0131 333 2679 (Kirkliston)
You can also use our online enrolment form which can be found at the top right of this page.
What meals and snacks are provided?
We believe that every mealtime is a learning opportunity for young children, Children will receive a morning and afternoon snack which will include either fruit or vegetables, milk or water.
A two course lunch is provided. Our lunches are currently provided by The City of Edinburgh Council and their menus are designed to ensure children experience a broad range of nutritious range of foods.
How early do I need to put my child’s name down to attend?
We recommend registering your child as early as possible to avoid disappointment. Early registration means we are more likely to be able to offer you your preferred attendance pattern.
Is there a registration fee?
For all non-funded children, a £100 registration fee is required. This fee will be deducted from your final month’s payment, provided you submit a written notice at least two months before leaving the nursery. This notice period applies to all children, including those transitioning to school.
Your child’s place is only considered secured once the £100 registration fee has been paid. Please note that this fee is non-refundable if you decide not to take up the place after making the payment.
Are staff qualified?
Our staff hold a range of qualifications, with all team members either already qualified, actively working towards a qualification, or awaiting the start of their training. In accordance with SSSC registration requirements, all childcare workers must obtain a relevant qualification within 3 years of entering the childcare sector.
To support our staff in meeting this requirement we provide in-house training and guidance to help them successfully achieve their qualifications.
Are all staff PVG checked?
Yes, all staff are PVG checked. This is an automatic system, where we are informed of any changes by Disclosure Scotand.
Are staff trained in first aid?
All our staff receive comprehensive First Aid training, which is regularly updated to ensure their skills remain current and their confidence stays high. Additionally, w incorporate discussions on various aspects of First Aid Practice into our regular team meetings to reinforce knowledge and best practices.
When can I visit the nursery?
We encourage all parents to schedule a show round to explore our setting and ask any questions they may have. Show rounds are available most days between 09:30-10:30 and 13:30-15:30, allowing us to avoid peak times such as drop-offs, pick-ups and mealtimes.
If these times are not suitable please let us know – we may be able to offer an alternative time to accommodate your needs.
To arrange a show round, please contact your preferred nursery at:
Drum Brae – 0131 339 1490
Kirkliston – 0131 333 2679
What happens when my child is due to start?
We understand that starting nursery is a big step for both you and your child and we want to make the transition as smooth and comfortable as possible.
To help your little one settle in with ease, we invite you to get in touch with us about a month before their start date so we can arrange their settling-in sessions. These sessions are designed to gently introduce your child to nursery life, helping them feel safe, happy and familiar with their new surroundings.
We offer three settling-in sessions:
The first session (1 hour) allows one parent to stay in the room while your child explores and gets comfortable. This is also a great time to complete any necessary paperwork;
The second session (2 hours) gives your child a little more time to adjust while beginning to build confidence in the new environment;
The final session (3 hours) typically includes a snack or mealtime, helping your child feel at home during one of their daily routines.
We recommend these sessions take place the week before your child’s official start date, giving them time to ease in and feel ready for their exciting nursery adventure!
If you have any questions or special requests we’re here to support you every step of the way.
I have a secured place, can I defer my child’s start date?
If you wish to defer your agreed start date, please call the Nursery in the first instance to discuss.
What happens if I need to alter my child's schedule?
If you wish to reduce the number of session your child attends, we require two weeks’ notice. Adding days to your schedule is subject to availability.
Do you have CCTV?
Yes we have CCTV in all our playrooms as an added security measure. These broadly cover the room and allow us to check this where appropriate, whilst providing additional assurance to families.
Do you cater for allergies and dietary preferences?
We offer meal alternatives for children with allergies to major allergens as well as those with specific dietary preferences. To ensure we can accommodate your child’s needs, please keep us informed of any dietary requirements by emailing adleaps@outlook.com.
What is the notice period to leave the nursery?
If you wish to leave the nursery, we require two months written notice. If the two months notice is provided, your £100 registration fee will be deducted from your final month’s fees.
How to pay my fees?
Fees are payable in advance and must be received by the 1st of each month. We kindly ask that you set up a direct debit to ensure timely payment.
Invoices are issues toward the end of each month for the following month through Famly. Please check your junk or spam folders in case the invoice is redirected there. If you have not received your invoice by the end of the month, please contact the nursery and we will be happy to assist you.
Bank details are provided in our ‘Welcome Pack’.
Do you accept HMRC tax free and childcare vouchers?
Yes, we accept all HMRC tax free/childcare vouchers.
We kindly ask that you provide us your Government reference code or use your child’s full name as the payment reference to ensure your fees are correctly applied to your account.
The Leadership Team
Jacqui Glasgow
Director
I started Leaps and Bounds Nursery in 2006. My daughter had attended a private nursery so I had a personal interest in the sector. When I decided to start my own business I knew immediately what it would be and exactly how I would do it!
I love my job, I’m so proud of the fantastic team we have here at Leaps and Bounds and I’m delighted that these feelings are echoed in the feedback from our parents/carers and children. The success of Leaps and Bounds is a testament to the team’s hard work every day and their passion for the welfare of the children we care for.
I hope you will consider Leads and Bounds nurseries and clubs for your child and if there is anything I can do to help please get in touch.
Devon Dewar
Director
I have been involved with the nursery since it first opened in 2006, as Jacqui is my mother. Working there from the beginning gave me invaluable experience and allowed me to watch it grow alongside our wonderful staff and children.
Throughout my school and university years, I remained actively involved in the nursery, working with all age groups. I earned a Master’s degree in Civil Engineering before moving to London to work as a Site Manager on major contracts. Although I loved my time in London, I always knew my heart was with the nursery – there is no job more rewarding.
As the Manager/Owner, I currently work out of our Kirkliston Nursery and Afterschool Club. As their Manager, I am dedicated to supporting our team and driving forward new initiatives. I am passionate about building strong relationships with our children and parents and creating memories that last a lifetime.
If you choose Leaps and Bounds, I look forward to meeting you and your children. If you have any questions, please feel free to reach out – I’m always happy to help.
Tracy McKenzie
Senior Management
I joined Leaps and Bounds in 2006 after leaving school and have since worked my way up to Senior of our Pre-School room and manager of one of our Afterschool clubs.
With experience in all the rooms over the years, I use my knowledge to support and mentor new staff joining the nursery and after school clubs.
Jen Loughton
Senior Management
I have been with the nursery since 2012, starting as an Early Years Practitioner in the ‘Tweenie Room’ before progressing to Senior and Manager of our of our Afterschool clubs.
I also support new staff in completing their qualifications.
Liane Grant
Senior Management
I joined the Kirkliston branch of the nursery in 2019 as an Early Years Practitioner and have since progressed to Deputy Manager and Senior of our Pre-School room.
I am passionate about supporting new staff as they complete their qualifications and grow their knowledge.
Nicola Langdale
Senior Management
I have been with the nursery for 17 years, starting in the Pre-School room. Over time, I progressed to a senior role, where I oversee all processes and procedures within the nursery.
I stay up to date with the new guidelines and support both nurseries in implementing the latest information.
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