About us
Over 30 years of nurturing young minds in Peacehaven
Butterfly Nursery is owned and co-managed by Rachel Stafford, whose own children (now grown up), as well as many other practitioners' children, have attended the nursery.
Rachel has worked at the nursery for over 20 years and graduated with a Degree in Early Years in 2013.
Butterfly Nursery Limited has grown from strength to strength as a childcare provider. Rachel works closely with a highly experienced management team who jointly oversee the Nursery and Afterschool Club.
Located in the heart of Peacehaven, we work closely with all local primary schools, providing a smooth transition from nursery to school. Just a short walk from shops, the main bus route, and local schools, with plenty of free parking nearby, we're the most accessible childcare setting for parents.
Our beliefs
Our core values are what supports and fosters a love for learning.
Excellence
We aim for the highest standards in everything we do, from learning to care.
Empathy
We care deeply about others, and take time to understand their feelings and needs.
Individual liberty
We give children the freedom to be themselves and grow with confidence in a safe space.
Respect
We treat everyone with kindness and fairness, no matter their backgrounds, beliefs or abilities.
Our team leaders
Rachel
Managing Director
Kajal
Nursery Manager
Amy
Nursery Deputy Manager
Cocoons (under 2s)
A warm, calm space for our youngest children, with cosy surroundings, dedicated milk kitchen and a caring 1:3 adult ration.
Babies enjoy their own garden area and gentle walks in the local community.
Caterpillars (age 2)
Active and curious, our twos explore both indoor and outdoor play, with soft play, garden access, and their own sleep room.
Grasshoppers (age 3)
Confident and independent, our threes have space to play, learn, and ride bikes in the courtyard, all with supportive 1:6 ratios and free-flow access to the garden.
Butterflies (preschool)
Preparing for school with more structure whilst learning through play.
Using the whole building, garden and courtyard, allowing our pre-schoolers to grow in confidence, skills and independence.
Designed for every stage
Our nursery offers thoughtfully designed spaces and resources tailored to each child's age and development. From cosy, calming rooms for babies, to active, creative areas for pre-schoolers. Every environment supports growth, discovery and confidence.
Our classesWhy Butterfly Nursery?
Excellence defines Butterfly Nursery's 30+ years of childcare.
Our safe, vibrant environment inspires children's natural curiosity, supported by excellent facilities and expert staff.
Strong ties to local schools enable seamless transitions, while flexible childcare programs offer families convenience without compromise.
Over 30 years of trusted care
Rated "Good" by Ofsted
Flexible childcare options
Butterfly Nursery has been supporting local families in Peacehaven for over 30 years.
During that time, we’ve built strong relationships within the community and earned the trust of generations of parents.
Our approach is shaped by a strong set of core values: excellence, empathy, respect, and individual liberty.
These values guide how we care for children, support families, and work together as a team.
We work closely with local primary schools to help children transition smoothly from nursery to school.
Our pre-school environment gently introduces structure while continuing to focus on play, confidence, and independence.
Yes, absolutely. We encourage parents to visit the nursery, meet our team leaders, and ask questions.
Getting to know the people caring for your child is an important part of choosing the right nursery.
We focus on creating a calm, welcoming, home-from-home environment where children feel safe and supported.
Our experienced staff take time to build strong relationships with each child, helping them settle at their own pace and grow in confidence as they become familiar with their surroundings and routines.