Ark Childcare's Reviews

Amazing childcare and wonderful people.

We genuinely couldn’t have asked for a better childminder for our son. He went to Ark Childcare , run by Karen and Amanda, full time from the day after his 1st birthday, right up until he started school. They were a huge part of his early years and we couldn’t have been happier with the care he received.

Karen and Amanda were absolutely fantastic at helping to build his confidence and independence and making sure he was ready for starting school. They were always completely on board with any changes we were making at home too, whether that was getting rid of the dummy, potty training, cutting down naps, dropping milk or just generally changing his routines as he got older. It made such a difference knowing we were all working together and that he was getting the same support and encouragement at the setting.

We loved the home-from-home environment at Ark Childcare and the fact that it never felt like he was just being looked after. Karen and Amanda regularly took the children out to parks, farms and all sorts of different places, giving them loads of experiences and opportunities to explore and have fun.

Communication was always brilliant too. We were kept informed about what they had been up to, how his day had gone and any concerns or things they thought we should know about. We always felt completely comfortable talking to them about anything and knew that if they had a concern, they would tell us.

Even now, almost a year after he left to start school, he still regularly talks about Karen and Amanda and the things he did at Ark, which I think says a lot about how happy he was there.

We honestly couldn’t recommend Karen and Amanda highly enough. If you're looking for a childminder where your child will be genuinely cared for, encouraged, supported and treated as an individual, I’d absolutely recommend them. 10/10 from us!

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by Jenny on 12/08/2026

A Home Away From Home

My daughter attended for a year and has only left due to starting full time school.

I had never used a childminder before and my daughter struggled being away from home due to her formative years being in lockdown, however Amanda was amazing. Within minutes of visiting Amanda my daughter was off playing and got upset when we had to leave.

Amanda does so many days out (without extra costs to parents) allowing the children to safely adventure and use their imagination. She also does a lot at home, I got some lovely paintings, drawings and yummy treats made by the children.

Ollie & Lexie (Amanda’s doggies) are amazing, always so gentle with the children. My daughter absolutely loved them and now wants one of her own.

In just a year I have seen such a change to my daughter, the once shy and quiet little girl when out and about is now so confident and chatty. Amanda has played a massive part in helping my daughter grow.

I couldn’t have asked for a better childminder. So understanding and flexible, amazing communication and encourages children to their fullest.

I would 100% recommend Amanda. Her home is a home away from home ❤️

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by Jessie on 04/09/2022

My daughter has been with Amanda for 3 years

My daughter has been with Amanda for 3 years. She was very good at settling her as she had not been looked after by a child minder before. My daughter is 9 and loves going there after school, especially helping Amanda with the younger ones, the dogs/cats and playing in garden.
Amanda is always friendly, never sick and flexible if I need her picked up or looked after for a bit longer than her contracted time.
I would have no hesitation in recommending Amanda.

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by Parent on 08/07/2016

"A safe, warm and loving environment"

Amanda has been looking after my daughter for 9 months, I visited various childcare establishments to find the perfect childcare for my daughter it never felt quite right but within 5 minutes of meeting Amanda i knew she was 'the one' Amanda was recommended to me by a friend. She has a warm and caring personality which I knew my daughter would feel safe with. My daughter looks forward to her days at Amanda's house, which is a real relief for a first time mum returning to work.

Since being with Amanda, Scarlett has been to Trilakes soft play, Play groups, Play gym, Swimming and daily trips out into the fresh air. On request I receive photographs/ reassuring messages sent to me during the day (all of which include my daughter with a smile on her face) this is just a small touch but makes the biggest difference.
Myself and my husband are incredibly grateful to have found Amanda and would highly recommend her to anybody looking for a safe and loving environment for their little one.

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by JDavis31 on 07/07/2016