Our Story So Far…
In 2011, I (Anna) found myself running 3 weekly Parent and Toddler Groups in Acomb, where I thoroughly enjoyed meeting families from all walks of life. The groups were thriving, but talking to these families, it soon became apparent that there was a real need for great childcare in the area.
Andy & I were approached by the owners of a small Pre-School, who had opened in Poppleton Business Park but after a few months had decided it wasn’t for them. They were looking for someone to take on their business and it was an opportunity we just didn’t want to miss. As a relatively newly married couple, with no serious career commitments and not a lot to lose, we decided to take on the Pre-School and after a LOT of hard work, planning and preparation, we relocated and opened our doors as Muddy Boots Nursery at the old Manor School in January 2012.
Starting with only a few children, we worked tirelessly to build the nursery up to a full and thriving setting, developing the staff team and striving to keep improving, sometimes against the odds (anyone remember the catastrophic fire in 2015?)
After 5 fantastic years in the old Manor School, it was time to move on and so after a long search for the perfect site, we secured the current setting on Boroughbridge Road, soon to be known as ‘Muddy Boots Poppleton’. Here we are fantastically lucky to have around 9 acres of land, where we have converted an old barn and stables to the custom designed, well-loved nursery building you see today!
Then, in 2018, the opportunity arose to take on a nearby setting in the grounds of Westfield School. The building had been purpose-built but needed a bit of TLC – we could not resist. After a complete renovation, we now have a second Muddy Boots site, including a fantastic Pioneers Out-of-School Club (we promise it’s a coincidence that our eldest had just started primary school!)
We have a vision for a dynamic, full-of-life, standard-setting nursery with a positive, family-feel, where children are genuinely loved as individuals. We believe in the best for every child, and that every child should be given the opportunity to flourish into their full potential. The name ‘Muddy Boots’ really sums up our whole ethos – to not be afraid to let children learn by getting muddy, exploring, going on adventures and getting out there and having a go!
Anna Nimmo – Muddy Boots Owner
Anna is qualified to Level 6 with Early Years Teacher Status and uses her qualification to keep inspiring the teams to foster an amazing educational experience for every child in the settings.
Andy Nimmo – Muddy Boots Owner
Andy is business-minded, having recently completed the prestigious Goldman Sachs ‘10,000 Small Businesses’ Programme. He focuses on training Leaders in Muddy Boots, casting vision to the team, and making sure the finances are all held together!
Muddy Boots – From an empty old school to a thriving nursery and preschool
Lots of fun and hard work have made Muddy Boots what it is today – these pictures show the journey of the nursery so far. A huge thank you to our family and friends who have helped us along the way!
