North East nursery firm gets multimillion-pound backing for growth

Clever Clogs Nursery currently has two sites in Durham and one in Stockton

A North East nursery provider has secured a multimillion-pound investment to support its growth.

Clever Clogs Day Nursery currently has two sites in Durham and grew five years ago with the acquisition of the Little Ladybirds nursery in Stockton. It has capacity for around 340 children across its three sites, and employs more than 100 staff.

Now it has secured a multi-million-pound investment from growth capital group BGF to support expansion across the region. It is looking to open new sites in the region as well considering acquisitions.

The company was founded in 2006 by Andrea Townsley. It has established a strong reputation, with two of its three sites rated outstanding by Ofsted, while it has been highly ranked for its services by daynurseries.com.

Ms Townsley said: “Since opening our first nursery 20 years ago, we’ve worked hard to build a business that puts children and their families first.

“Being outstanding is not reserved for inspections – we strive for high standards every day, providing inclusive childcare while creating a sense of community across each of our settings. This commitment won’t waver as we grow.

“The expansion of funded childcare is increasing demand for nursery places, giving us an opportunity to bring our approach to more families across the region. Finding the right investment partner was important to us, and BGF shares our long-term ambitions and commitment to maintaining the standards that have made Clever Clogs successful so far.”

As part of the deal, John Healey, investor at BGF, will join the company’s board and Ann Elliott, who was sourced via BGF’s Talent Network and brings deep experience in early years care, takes up the position of chair.

Mr Healey said: “Clever Clogs is a wonderful business that has demonstrated a clear commitment to childcare quality over the past 20 years. Andrea’s ability to expand while maintaining standards and a personal approach makes the group stand out among its peers.

“Having previously supported the growth of childcare businesses across the UK and Ireland, we understand the opportunities and challenges that come with scaling in this sector.

“We look forward to working with Andrea and the team to build on their success to date and bring a high-quality service to more communities across the North East.”

BGF, which is backed by five of the UK’s largest financial institutions, is the most active growth capital investor in the UK and Ireland.

Since 2011, it has invested £5bn in 650 small and mid-sized businesses, generating £3.7bn in proceeds across more than 280 exits. It typically invests between £3m and £30m in early-stage and growth-stage business, often providing follow-on funding to support further growth.