Clear Day Nurseries, a family of eight nurseries across Belfast, Counties Antrim, Down and Armagh, has been recognised as one of the Top 20 Nursery Groups in the UK in the 2025 daynurseries.co.uk Nursery Awards, the only group in Northern Ireland to achieve this accolade. One parent with two children in Little Gems nursery in Belfast says,
“Children have many opportunities to be creative and to play outdoors. Staff are caring and know each child very well”
This award comes in a milestone year as the organisation celebrates 20 years of delivering exceptional Early Years education and care. Above all, it is a tribute to the dedication and expertise of the staff team. Time and again, parents commented on their warmth and professionalism and how their children experience a nurturing and homely environment every day. Clear Day Nurseries is a trusted partner for families, a vital part of the local community and a welcoming family where friendships grow and childhood shines. These are the qualities that have defined Clear Day Nurseries for the past two decades.
Nursery Director, Audrey McCracken reflects on why this award means so much,
“This award is particularly meaningful because it comes directly from the kind words of our parents and carers. We know that nursery is such an important part of a child’s world, and our wonderful team strive to ensure that world is filled with care and curiosity. Their dedication is what makes Clear Day Nurseries such a special place ensuring every child’s happiness and well-being is paramount.”
Alongside its reputation for excellence, Clear Day Nurseries is proud to be shaping the future of the sector by supporting new pathways into Early Years education. The group is one of the partners in the Early Learning and Childcare Assured Skills Academy, an initiative fully funded by the Department for the Economy and delivered by Belfast Met.
Representing Clear Day Nurseries in this partnership is Head of Operations, Jill McWilliams, who has been actively involved in championing the scheme and welcoming participants into the nurseries.
The Academy provides high-quality training and practical experience, creating opportunities for individuals to build rewarding careers in childcare while strengthening the workforce with new talent. Clear Day Nurseries will welcome participants from the scheme and remains committed to supporting this pipeline of skilled, passionate practitioners.
Recognising the group’s achievement, Education Minister Paul Givan said:
“Congratulations to Clear Day Nurseries on being named one of the Top 20 Nursery Groups in the United Kingdom. It is a significant and prestigious achievement.
High-quality early learning and childcare are essential to improving outcomes for our children and families. Actions to support the early learning and childcare workforce will form part of the draft Early Learning and Childcare Strategy which I will bring forward to the Executive in the coming weeks.”
As the group marks 20 years of service and growth, Nursery Director Audrey McCracken says the milestone is as much about the future as it is about the past.
“Looking ahead, we believe we are doing the most important job in the world, providing Early Years education that helps children feel safe and ready to explore the world around them. Our hope is to continue this work for many years, supporting families and shaping the next generation with the same passion and care that has brought us here today.”
Finally, when asked about their favourite thing at nursery, one child said, ‘Mini pizzas we make ourselves!’ It’s a perfect example of how Clear Day Nurseries nurture creativity as well as little appetites.