Constitution Hill Norwich | Once upon a time nursery

This day care nursery school was known for many years as Jigsaw. We purchased it in April 2014 and changed the name to Once upon a time. The premises were totally refurbished in August 2014 at a cost of over £100,000.

Our investment continued with the appointment of a new, experienced management team with new policies and procedures and a strong emphasis on staff training. Beth, who was an Early Years student at that time, has progressed through Once upon a time to become our Nursery Manager. Whilst Beth enjoys maternity leave after welcoming her first baby in May 2024, Jodie (normally our Deputy Nursery Manager) has taken over the reigns to lead the nursery.

The nursery has a wide range of equipment and resources that creates an environment where the children can learn and develop through play. In 2019 it was rated ‘Good’ in all areas by Ofsted.

Although the car parking facilities are limited, the building is often described as a Tardis. There are three generous sized rooms for the three age groups, plus a large washroom area and a baby sleep room. There is also a spacious garden with a wonderful under-cover outside area where the children can play whatever the weather. Our cook also prepares fresh meals every day. Special dietary needs are catered for.

The team use an online app called ‘Tapestry’ to record each child’s learning journal. Parents can log in whenever they wish to keep up to date with the activities their child has been doing at nursery, along with their developmental progress.

View Ofsted report

Meet the Manager

Beth Haywood (currently on maternity leave)

As a child who attended Jigsaw nursery, it often feels nostalgic to be back at ‘The Hill’ as Nursery Manager. I’m extremely proud to be doing so.

My Once upon a time journey began back in 2014 and during that time I spent two years as Room Manager in Rabbit room at The Hill, before progressing into a Deputy Manager at The Farm. After four years of helping to launch and lead there, I returned to The Hill to become Nursery Manager.

I achieved a First-Class BA (Hons) Degree in Childhood Studies back in 2016 and since then have gained Early Years Teacher Status, following completion of the Essex Primary SCITT course in 2019.

We have a marvellous team of Early Years Practitioners, who bring varying, yet valuable skills, experience and qualifications. They ultimately all strive to provide endless magical opportunities for children to learn and thrive, as they embark on their Once upon a time adventure!

I became a parent in May 2024 so enjoy nothing more than spending time with my baby and loved ones. I know Jodie and the team will do a fantastic job at welcoming children and families to this wonderful setting whilst I am on maternity leave.

Jodie Harvey (acting Nursery Manager)

I joined Once upon a time in 2017, originally at our Wroxham Road setting. After having my son in 2021, I returned later that year to become Deputy Nursery Manager here, at ‘The Hill’.

I have over ten years’ experience within Early Years and special educational needs schools. Before joining Once upon a time I achieved a Level 5 Diploma in Children’s Care, Learning and Development. Since 2017, I have completed a Level 3 Special Educational Needs Coordinator award and a Level 3 in Outdoor Practice, both areas I am very passionate about.

Outside of our wonderful nursery I love spending time with my little boy and partner, building Lego, sewing and reading.

Beth and I have worked closely here for the past three years, managing and leading the team and setting. So I am so pleased to be acting Nursery Manager, with the support of a talented team, whilst she enjoys maternity leave.

Meet the team

We’re very lucky to have some fantastic people who bring the magic to life at Once upon a time. Each member of the team is a Key person to a small number of children. When your child starts nursery, they’ll be matched to one of the team who’ll help settle them into nursery, support their learning and development and be your main point of contact. Jodie, acting Nursery Manager, is joined by Adele, Room Manager and Deputy Nursery Manager, along with Sammi and Rebecca, both Room Managers, as part of the management team.