Introduction
This guide answers common questions parents ask when learning about LEYF nurseries. It covers who we are, how children learn, fees, inclusion, and practical next steps so you can feel confident about what to expect.
About LEYF
What is the London Early Years Foundation (LEYF)?
The London Early Years Foundation (LEYF) is a London-based social enterprise that runs nurseries across the city. In addition, we work to improve early years education for children and families more widely.
We founded LEYF to reduce inequality through high-quality Early Years Education and Care.
What makes LEYF different from other nursery providers?
LEYF is not a traditional private nursery chain. Instead, as a social enterprise, we reinvest profit back into our nurseries, staff, and communities rather than paying dividends to shareholders.
As a result, we focus on:
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Fairness, wellbeing, and long-term outcomes for children
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Experienced, well-supported staff and Early Years Teachers
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Inclusive practice and support for families
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Research-informed learning and development
Does LEYF only operate nurseries in London?
Yes. LEYF operates nurseries exclusively across London. Currently, our settings are located in 13 boroughs, which allows us to serve a wide range of communities while maintaining a consistent approach to high-quality education and care.
By focusing on London, we can build strong local partnerships and respond quickly to community needs. Consequently, each nursery reflects the families and children it supports.
What is LEYF’s mission?
Our mission is to change the world one child at a time through high-quality Early Years Education and Care.
We believe the early years matter; therefore, every child deserves the best possible start, regardless of background.
Early education and the EYFS
What does good EYFS practice look like in nurseries?
Good EYFS practice supports learning through play, relationships, and everyday experiences rather than formal teaching. As a result, children build communication skills, confidence, curiosity, and emotional wellbeing.
At LEYF, children aged 0–5 learn through exploration, movement, talk, and meaningful interactions with adults who know them well.
How do nurseries promote school readiness without being too academic?
School readiness means helping children develop confidence, independence, communication skills, and emotional resilience so they feel ready to learn.
Therefore, LEYF focuses on social skills, language, problem-solving, and self-care instead of early reading or writing drills. Children build strong foundations at a pace that feels right for them.
Research-informed practice
What is research-informed early years pedagogy and why does it matter?
Research-informed practice uses evidence from child development and education studies to shape how children learn and thrive. Because of this, decisions focus on children’s best interests rather than trends or assumptions.
How can I tell if a nursery’s curriculum is based on solid research?
Look for nurseries that clearly explain their approach, staff training, and how they review learning over time.
At LEYF, we combine research, practice, and training. In addition, we share learning across our nurseries to keep improving.
Food, nutrition, and sustainability
Why is food and nutrition so important at LEYF?
At LEYF, food plays a central role in children’s learning, health, and wellbeing. Nutritious meals support growth and concentration, while shared mealtimes build independence and social skills.
Therefore, food is part of everyday learning, not an add-on.
Do LEYF nurseries provide healthy meals?
Yes. We prepare fresh, nutritious meals and snacks each day. Moreover, menus support children’s growth, dietary needs, and positive eating habits.
Are meals cooked on site?
Most LEYF nurseries have on-site chefs who cook fresh meals daily. Because meals are prepared on site, menus can reflect children’s needs, cultural diversity, and seasonal ingredients.
Children often see and talk about food being prepared, which encourages curiosity and confidence around eating.
How are LEYF chefs trained?
We run a dedicated Chef Academy for Early Years Chefs to maintain consistent standards. Training includes:
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Child nutrition and portion sizes
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Cooking from scratch with fresh ingredients
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Safe allergen management
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Sustainable cooking and reducing waste
Training continues throughout the year, so quality stays high across all nurseries.
How does LEYF manage allergies and dietary needs?
We prioritise children’s safety at every stage of food preparation and service. Staff follow clear allergen procedures and work closely with families.
We also document and regularly review dietary requirements. As a result, children can eat safely, confidently, and inclusively.
Working with parents
How do nurseries support toilet training and personal care?
LEYF works in close partnership with parents and follows each child’s readiness. We respect home routines where possible and maintain clear communication.
Consequently, children experience consistency and reassurance during this stage.
How does LEYF help parents understand their child’s learning?
We keep parents informed through regular conversations, updates, and observations. In addition, we explain learning in everyday language so you can see how play supports development.
Inclusion and community
Do any nurseries offer a cross-subsidy model?
Yes. LEYF uses a cross-subsidy model, so income from fee-paying places helps support children and families who need additional help.
What are the benefits of a nursery with a strong community focus?
A strong community focus helps children feel a sense of belonging and security. At the same time, families benefit from being part of a supportive network.
How do nurseries support children from disadvantaged backgrounds?
High-quality care is combined with targeted family support. At LEYF, this may include funded places, additional learning support, and partnerships with local services.
How do nurseries support children with SEND?
LEYF uses inclusive practice, trained staff, and close collaboration with families and specialists. Support plans and tailored environments help ensure every child can thrive.
Social enterprise
What makes a nursery a social enterprise?
A social enterprise reinvests profit into its purpose rather than distributing dividends. For LEYF, that purpose is improving outcomes for children and families.
How does LEYF reinvest profit?
We invest income into staff development, learning environments, research, and wider work that improves Early Years education. Therefore, resources directly benefit children and communities.
Choosing a nursery
What should parents look for?
Parents may want to consider staff experience, relationships, learning approach, inclusion, communication, and how the nursery supports wellbeing. Visiting in person can also help you decide if it feels right.
How important are Ofsted ratings?
Ofsted ratings provide a helpful snapshot of quality. However, daily experiences, staff stability, and relationships matter just as much.
What’s the difference between Outstanding and Good?
Both ratings mean a nursery meets children’s needs well. Generally, the difference reflects smaller variations in practice rather than overall quality.
Comparing providers
How does LEYF compare with large nursery chains?
LEYF and large providers offer different approaches. While many chains focus on scale, LEYF emphasises research-informed practice, social impact, and reinvestment into communities.
Therefore, parents often compare values, staff experience, and what is included, not just availability.
Fees and funding
How do fees and funded childcare work?
We help families access funded childcare, Tax-Free Childcare, and other schemes. Fees reflect the true cost of high-quality early education in London; however, income is reinvested into children, staff, and communities.
Applying for a place
How do I apply?
You can apply through the LEYF website or contact your chosen nursery directly. The team will then guide you through availability, fees, and funding options.
Can I move between LEYF nurseries?
Yes, where places are available, we support families who relocate. Speak to your Nursery Manager as early as possible so we can explore options together.