1. Table of contents

Nurseries in primary schools

Nursery classes are available at the following primary schools:


Falkirk Council ELC Centres

The following council ELC Centres are open during school holidays and for longer days during term-time. In these settings, where staffing resources allow, it may be possible for parents to add-on childcare hours to funded hours:


Private nurseries

Our partner nurseries can also provide additional childcare hours over and above funded entitlement. Further information is available from individual nurseries.


Childminders

Our partner childminders can also provide additional childcare hours over and above funded entitlement

Please contact the childminders directly. Their details can be found below.

  1. Table of contents

Ward 1 - Bo'ness and Blackness

Cecile Recio
CS2019373681

Ward 2 - Grangemouth

Leigh Ann Anderson
CS2005091912

Leigh Ann Anderson and 'Peek-A-Boo Childcare' aim to deliver high-quality care in a fun, nurturing setting that is flexible to both children and families with differing needs.

I am Paediatric 1st Aid trained, hold HNC in Childhood Practice and am registered with the Care Inspectorate.

This setting provides children with the opportunity to learn, play and develop at their own pace by experiencing different environments and activities all whilst promoting healthy lifestyle choices; cooking, arts & crafts, soft play, toddlers, parks, woodlands and beaches.

Most importantly I aim to provide a setting that enhances your children’s experiences in a safe and secure environment where having fun is key.



Kay Connar is a Grangemouth based Childminder.

I like to build a positive relationship with both the child and the parent, and through the use of an app, I can provide daily updates on what we have done.

We do everything from growing fruit and vegetables to visiting parks, castles, beaches, and toddler groups. I enjoy watching how children grow and develop through play.

I ensure my practice remains current by completing CPD opportunities, and I have a current paediatric first-aid certificate.


Ann Mather
CS2004079502

Alison McPherson
CS2004079502

I am a registered childminder and have been for over 15 years.

We offer children a friendly homely environment and we take all children's needs into consideration.

We offer a wide variety of activities suitable to the child's stage and age.

We do love being out and about when we can, we all love a walk in the woods just exploring the outside world. Sometimes we go to soft play, mini gyms and crafts and baking.


Ward 3 - Denny and Banknock

Billinda Duncan 
CS2007160425

I aim to provide a friendly, welcoming and nurturing environment for the children in my care.

I provide a high-quality service from my home and have over 15 years-experience.

Children in my care enjoy many activities which are mostly child led and involve STEM learning, our days are spent outdoors using the many resources we have around us including forest play and local parks.

I aim to give the children lots of experiences in nature which are valuable for growth and wellbeing. Building relationships with other children and having life experiences through play. Getting It Right for Every Child.

Parent Statement: 'Billinda's service is full of activities for the children, we love that Billinda is always keen to get them outside and play in the forest, parks and streams around our area. The atmosphere is really positive, and she is always smiling and happy to welcome them in first thing in the morning' Mae.


Elizabeth Irwin
CS2003011381

Julie McArthur
CS2003011397

As a childminder I offer a professional, friendly, flexible childcare service, offering lots of fun days out such as toddlers groups, soft play, walks in the woods and visits to local parks.

I have been a registered childminder for 23 years and I can offer the 1140 funded hours as I have completed SVQ3 level 7.


I provide full time, blended with nursery and/or part-time sessions available. I have 15 years of experience, qualified in Forest Kindergarten and I am a qualified early years officer.

I offer forest kindergarten sessions, in conjunction with two other childminders, as well as nurturing educational care from my home in a dedicated, spacious playroom that is designed to promote free play and imagination.

Both approaches are based around providing child-centred learning through play that develops self-esteem, intelligence, problem-solving, communication, decision making, socialisation, emotional growth, confidence, cognitive, critical thinking, and motor skills.

The intended outcome is to get the children school ready within a loving home from home environment.

Forest sessions are run almost daily giving the children exciting and engaging play opportunities in local, natural settings all year round promoting a healthy body and a healthy mind.

For more information on Jacquiline's Childcare Service visit the website.


I provide a professional, friendly affordable and very flexible childcare service for all ages in a warm caring home from home environment.

I Offer fun days outdoors, indoors, soft play and toddlers.

I can also offer the 1140 funded hours as I have my SVQ3 level 7.


Joyce Orr
CS2017358032

I have an HNC in Childcare and Education.

I provide children with a fun, caring, nurturing and stimulating home from home where children can play and learn.

I provide a range of activities/experiences that are age-appropriate for your child's age/stage of development so that your child can reach their full potential.

Outdoor play is promoted heavily in my setting with time spent in the garden, parks, woods, beaches and meeting up with other childminders along with visits to local toddler groups, soft plays and sports centres.


Lynn Reynolds
CS2003011400

I have been registered as a childminder since 1999, and I have gained great experiences throughout my years as a childminder.

I have a warm and friendly home and environment and help babies and young children to develop throughout the different stages of their life.

I am a member of the SCMA and registered with the Care Inspectorate.

I have an SVQ7, and up to date First aid certificate as well as various other training certificates for training I have attended.

The activities I like to do with the children are Soft play, Swimming (which has been a while due to Covid), woodland walks, fishing and various other activities including, arts &crafts, play dough, and baking.


I have been a registered childminder since 2006.

I operate in a homely, caring, and nurturing environment.

I provide a flexible service tailored to your individual needs.

We visit toddler groups, soft plays, parks, and other outdoor activities.

I can offer the 1140 funded hours as I have my SVQ3 level 7.


Ward 4 - Carse, Kinnaird and Tryst

Jade McKnight
CS2023000242

I have over 15 years experience working in childcare with an HNC in childhood practice.

Throughout these years I have worked in after school clubs, nurseries and now do childminding. I provide a warm welcoming environment and aim to meet all children’s needs through lots of different activities and experiences ensuring all children have the opportunity to reach their full potential. I attend regular childminding groups as well as trips to the parks, soft plays and playgroups. I keep my knowledge and training up to date and hold various certificates such as first aid and child protection.

Joanne Connolly
CS2006117127

I am a childminder registered with the Care Inspectorate and graded 5 in all areas.

I offer a home from home environment and provide the children with a variety of play experiences.

I make use of local parks and forests, trips to soft play and play parks and toddler groups.

My main aim is to provide as much fun and stimulation to the various ages of children I care for allowing them to thrive and grow.


Kerry Martin
CS2010247178

I am an experienced registered Childminder with an HNC in Child Care and Education. I provide a high quality of childcare within a safe, warm, and friendly home environment where children can play, learn and have fun. Weekly community activities include playgroup, library, cafes, and shops as well as forest walks, farm visits and soft play.

I provide childcare for children aged 6 months to 12 years. As a Falkirk Council partner childminder, I can offer up to 30 hrs free childcare per week

for 3 and 4 year olds and eligible 2’s. Care Inspectorate Grade 5 (very good).


May Rookes
CS2010247396

I am a qualified nursery nurse and hold an H.N.C. in Social Care.

My service offers a professional, caring approach in a warm, safe, and cosy home from home environment.

I offer children a wide range of activities to learn through play, following the curriculum to achieve e.g., Forest walks & den building, farm visits, playgroups, parks, soft play, and community amenities such as cafes, shops, and libraries.

I am a partner provider with Falkirk Council, offering up to 30 hours of free childcare for 3&4-year-olds and eligible 2-year-olds.

My current Care Inspectorate grade is 5 (very good).

I have been a registered child care provider for the past 19 years in Carronshore.

I'm surrounded by beautiful walks and woodland outings for the kids to enjoy. Regularly attend soft play, playgroups and my home is a home to home setting.

I have achieved my SVQ level 7 in children and young people. I have paediatrics first aid training for children and young people.


I have been a registered childminder for 13 years, based in Airth.

I provide a homely, safe and friendly place for the children, I offer a variety of toys and activities ranging from arts & crafts to baking.

Outdoor activities ranging from visiting parks, woods etc. taking the child's age and development into consideration.

The children are always given the opportunity to make their own choices and I always make time to listen.

I have been a childminder since 2003, based in Airth. I have many years of experience and am fully qualified.

I hold an HNC in Childcare and Education, and recently completed my SVQ4 level 9'social Services and Young People.

I aim to provide a happy nurturing homely but stimulating environment. Inspection reports can be found online.


Kym Guest
CS2023000120

Ward 5 - Bonnybridge and Larbert

Alison Aitken
CS2004081315
Bonny Kidz
CS2005110559

Throughout our service we offer a home from home environment. We provide age and stage appropriate resources and activities to watch the children develop and flourish.

We work in partnership with parents and carers to maintain positive communication and to ensure we are working together to meet the needs and wellbeing of the children. We provide before and after school care and take children from 0-16 years of age. We provide healthy breakfast, snacks and meals for the children promoting choice and healthy eating as per setting the table document. We refer to the GIRFEC document using the SHANARRI wellbeing indicators to promote development within the children.

The children have opportunities to contribute to their care by choosing their activities, meals, and any ideas they have to integrate into the service. Nature walks is one of the activities the children particularly enjoy, exploring the nature reserve and feeding the ducks. We provide days out going to various areas to explore to develop their interests and curiosity.

Qualifications

Adeline Ramsay – SVQ 3 Social Services (Children and Young People)

  • SCQF Level 7
  • Food Safety and Hygiene

Hazel Robertson (assistant) - Modern Apprenticeship – Early Years Care and Education

  • SVQ 3 Early Years Care and Education
  • Nat 5 in Care
  • HNC Social Services
  • Diploma of Higher Education in Education and Social Services
  • Food Safety and Hygiene
  • Advanced Child Protection

Holly Anne - pathway to becoming a childminder via SCMA

  • SVQ SSCYP Level 3 (SCQF Level 7) - Currently working towards certification

If you require any further information, please don’t hesitate to contact us.


I aim to provide a flexible, professional service to children in my care experiencing a friendly, safe and stimulating environment where parents are confident that their child is respected, comfortable and happy.

I hold an SVQ level 3 Social Services Children and Young People qualification, an up-to-date Food Hygiene Certificate, regularly refresh my Child Protection training and have a current Paediatric First Aid qualification.

I am a member of the Scottish Childminding Association which support childminders with best practice guidance and professional learning. As the children I care for grow and develop, I encourage them to plan along with me topics and activities for exploration. Each child is respected as an individual and will be helped to realise their potential with activities tailored around their age and ability.

There are ample opportunities for outdoor and indoor play and outings around the local area to woods, rivers, lochs and canals. Creative activities focus on the seasons and annual celebrations, allowing the children to learn about the world around them.


Jacquelyn Ferguson
CS2003011422

Violet Jack
CS2006116294

Rhona McKinlay
CS2012308811

Lesley Paterson
CS2010272833

My name is Lesley Paterson and I live in Larbert, I have 2 older children and 2 Labradors. I am a mum to an autistic child, so have first-hand experience of caring for a child with autism and understanding the individual needs of a child on the autistic spectrum.

I have been childminding for 12 years and cover Ladeside Primary School. I have passed my SVQ Level 7 in childcare and have gained a lot of knowledge from this. I enjoy taking the children in my care to playgroups and daily outings to parks.I provide a home from home nurturing experience for the children, working in partnership with parents.


Linsey Philliban and Alana Wotherspoon
CS2010272833

My name is Linsey Philliban and I work in partnership with my mum Alana Wotherspoon. We are a registered, qualified childminding setting which offers high-quality childcare in a nurturing home environment.

We enjoy arts and crafts, outdoor experiences, singing, stories, topics and lots of learning through play. We are committed to working in partnership with families. We listen to children's voices and preferences and respond appropriately to extend their interest and learning while ensuring they have fun.


My name is Tracy and I aim to provide a safe and caring home from home environment in which children will feel happy and secure. We attend either play groups or soft play most days and enjoy visits to local parks and going for walks with my dog (a Cockapoo). Plenty of fresh air and outdoor play is enjoyed either in my garden or in local parks and green spaces. We also enjoy arts and crafts, story time, loose parts play, and other activities.

I have an SVQ in Social Services (Children and Young People), a Cache Level 2 Certificate in Understanding Children and Young People’s Mental Health and an Emergency Paediatric First Aid Certificate.


Lynnette Thomson
CS 2007160479

I am a qualified Forest Kindergarten Practitioner, Early Years Officer, and Occupational Therapist. I have been working as a registered childminder since 2007 and as well as offering a warm friendly home environment, myself and two other Forest Kindergarten trained childminders run daily (weather permitting) outdoor sessions for all our children.

We visit different locations throughout the Falkirk area and go on many adventures. Forest Kindergarten has the same principles as Forest School but for 2-5-year-olds.

Do you remember the bests days of your childhood when you made tree swings, build dens, found mini beasts, had picnics under trees and played imaginative games with your friends and had adventures in the woods? Well, we do all that and more!

I follow the same curriculum and Froebelian principles as the nurseries but with an outdoor woodland twist.

I offer full and blended places. For more information feel free to get in touch or visit our Facebook page - Wild Child Forest Kindergarten Group.


Zara Ward
CS2016345464

Ward 6 - Falkirk North

My name is Susan Black, I have been a registered childminder since 2013 and am SVQ level 7 qualified. My current Care Inspectorate Grade is a 5 and I strive to provide an excellent, nurturing environment in which all my mindees can grow and learn while being treated like one of my own. I follow the Curriculum for Excellence (CfE) and use the SHANARRI indicators while creating a fun place to learn.


Fiona Smith
CS2008170948

My name is Fiona and I have been a registered childminder in Falkirk for the last 13 years. I live in a quiet street with my 20-year-old daughter and our friendly black Labrador. I am in the Falkirk North area.

I am educated to degree level and have recently completed my SVQ3 in Social Services (Children and Young People). I have consistently been awarded a grade 5 by the Care Inspectorate in all aspects of my service.

I aim to provide a warm, nurturing environment in which children of all ages can flourish. I offer a mix of both indoor and outdoor activities, experiences, and learning. I strive to work in partnership with parents to provide a reliable, flexible and professional solution to their childcare needs.



Ward 7 - Falkirk South

Tracey McCluskey
CS2011280483

I aim to provide a home from home, warm, caring friendly setting, to allow children to grow and develop, visiting toddlers, soft play, parks, and walks. I am lucky to be surrounded by beautiful woods and use this area in daily adventures. I feel it’s important to work in partnership with parents offering the best possible care. Having structure and being flexible is important in any child's care.

I am registered with the Care Inspectorate and have been graded a 5 in all aspects of my service. I also have my SVQ Level 3 in Children and Young People. My family consists of my husband, daughter, and son. We also have two friendly dogs. I look forward to welcoming your child into our family home and spending time creating new memories.


Ward 8 - Lower Braes

I offer a home from home environment in a warm, caring, friendly environment where I hope your child will feel happy and secure.

I am registered with the Care Inspectorate and have been childminding for just over 30 years and I have always maintained Grade 5 (Very Good). I have an SVQ in Social Services (Children and Young People) SCQF Level 7 qualification along with many years of practical experience.

My aim is for your child to have fun whilst learning at the same time. I provide a wide variety of activities each day whilst recognising the importance of how much children enjoy routines and therefore, incorporate daily activities alongside our regular trips to Moo Music Class, toddler groups, soft play with trips to the parks, woodland walks, arts and crafts, baking which the children are encouraged to help plan.

I promote outdoor learning and work following the Curriculum for Excellence, SHANARRI and Realising the Ambition.


Nicola Gibson
CS2008178822

I have been a registered childminder since 2009. I have completed my SVQ level 7 and currently sitting with a grade 5 from the Care Inspectorate. I am committed to providing a safe and nurturing environment within my setting. My service offers a wide range of activities on a daily basis which includes input from the children to help plan for the days ahead. After all it is their service to enjoy each day. I ensure each child is cared for as if they were my own.


I have been a registered childminder for 18 years and graded 5 by Care Inspectorate. I have my SVQ 3 in childcare, with a first-aid certificate and excellent references available. I offer a homely environment. Snacks and healthy meals are provided.

We enjoy arts and crafts, baking, games, tv time, walks to the woods and various other places plus walking my 2 friendly dogs. I have a large enclosed garden with an outdoor play area. Children enjoy visits to local playgroups and parks and various special themed events e.g. sports day and our famous Halloween party to name but a few.

Flexible days and hours available plus 7am start time if needed. Any questions please feel free to contact me.

Sandra Isles
CS2011300877

Lynne Lawson
CS2008178529

I have been a registered childminder since 2004, qualified in SVQ level 7 in 2020.  My care inspectorate grade is 5 (very good).

I offer the kind of care I would wish for my own children.  My main aim is to exceed the expectations of the parents and children in my care and create a home from home environment where children will feel cared for, confident and happy. I will offer every child in my care a stimulating, safe, clean, and friendly environment.  Opportunities will be provided for all children to take part in activities to encourage their development.

Each child is treated without discrimination and as an individual with respect. Their confidence will be nourished through positive influence and praise.  A wide range of toys will be available for different age groups as well as arts and crafts, baking, music and movement, story time and outdoor play. 


Cheryl Meikle
CS2007144536

Sarah McDonald
CS2013316420

I have been a childminder now for 7 years, I am based in Maddiston. I have passed my SVQ Level 7. My aim is to provide a safe, clean, friendly home, where children will feel relaxed and happy. We regularly like to visit the local parks, soft play, and toddler groups. I provide lots of fun educational toys, and the children really enjoy doing arts and crafts, baking or making up their own games to play, I love to see them using their imagination.


Kirsty Sharpe
CS2018366564

I am registered with the Care Inspectorate. Here at Little Wings Childminding we offer a range of fun activities for your child to learn through play, both indoors and out. Relationships with both parents and children are really important to me and communications between us all ensures partnership working. Every day is a new adventure to embark on together.


Jacqueline Wilson
CS2013322297

I have been a childminder now for 7 years, I am based in Maddiston. I have passed my SVQ Level 7. My aim is to provide a safe, clean, friendly home, where children will feel relaxed and happy. We regularly like to visit the local parks, soft play, and toddler groups. I provide lots of fun educational toys, and the children really enjoy doing arts and crafts, baking or making up their own games to play, I love to see them using their imagination.


Ward 9 - Upper Braes

I have been a registered Childminder since 2004, I am SVQ Level 7 qualified and my current care Inspectorate grade is 5 - very good.

I strive to make sure that each child I care for is treated and loved as if one of my own. I ensure that each child feels that my home is a fun, loving, safe learning environment where they can holistically thrive.

I follow the Curriculum for Excellence, SHANARRI and Realising the Ambition. Each child has a learning journal to enable parents/guardians to see what we are working on and the child's next learning steps.


Lauren Conlin
CS2021000337

Anna McGregor
CS2020379428