Founded in Cornwall and now supporting thousands of families across the South of England and Wales, Happy Days Nurseries & Pre-Schools is celebrating a period of significant growth and national recognition.
Over the past five years, the nursery group has expanded from 18 settings to 43 nurseries, reflecting continued investment in high-quality early years education and care across local communities.
Alongside this growth, Happy Days has recently received several prestigious national accolades. At the Nursery Management Today (NMT) Power List Awards 2026, two senior leaders were recognised for their outstanding contribution to the sector. Toni Kilby received the CFO of the Year award, while Jackie Cambridge was named Education/Quality Director of the Year.
The organisation was also once again recognised as one of the Top 20 Large Nursery Groups in the UK in the DayNurseries Awards 2026, with four individual settings receiving additional recognition for excellence and parent satisfaction.
These achievements build on previous national success, including recognition at last year’s Nursery World Awards, further reinforcing Happy Days’ reputation for delivering high-quality childcare and early years education.
Chief Executive Officer Kim Herbert said: “Over the past few years, we have continued to grow thoughtfully and sustainably, always with children, families and our people at the heart of every decision. To receive this level of national recognition while continuing to expand is something we are incredibly proud of.
“As a company that began in Cornwall, it is especially meaningful to see our teams recognised on a national stage. These awards reflect the passion, professionalism and dedication shown by colleagues across all of our nurseries every single day.”
Originally established in Cornwall, Happy Days now operates across a wide geographical area while remaining committed to its core ethos of supporting children to become confident, capable learners in nurturing environments.
Recent expansion has included the acquisition of Boys & Girls Nursery Group and the opening of new settings including Boorley Green, helping to meet increasing demand from families for high-quality childcare.
The organisation continues to invest in its people, curriculum and nursery environments, with a focus on creating inspiring spaces where children can shine emotionally, socially and academically.