Our wraparound childcare gives children from St Bartholomew’s C of E Primary School in Quorn a safe, welcoming space before and after school, where they can relax, play and spend time with friends. We aim to make each session a positive part of their day — not an extension of school, but somewhere they genuinely enjoy coming.

Smiles of Quorn was founded in 2018 by Rachel Marshall and her friend and colleague Suzy Saddington, both with years of experience in early years and primary education. Since 2021, Rachel has continued to lead Smiles as a family-run business with the same passion and ethos it was built on.

Our wraparound childcare sessions run from our base at The Deep End, Rawlins Academy, a bright, modern setting just a short walk from St Bartholomew’s C of E Primary School. That walk is an important part of the routine: research shows that regular walking helps children improve mood, boost self-esteem and stay healthy. For us, it’s also a way to mark the end of the school day — giving children time to chat, stretch their legs and arrive ready for play.

Although Smiles is a separate organisation, we enjoy a formal partnership agreement with St Bartholomew’s. This helps us share information where needed, maintain clear communication with school staff and ensure continuity of care for the children we look after. It means families benefit from the reassurance of a close working relationship, while still knowing that Smiles offers a distinct, welcoming space away from the classroom.

Once at Smiles, children have the freedom to choose how they spend their time. Following the Playwork Principles, we encourage independence and free play while also offering a changing mix of adult-led activities each week. These might include arts and crafts, construction, small world play, sports, book clubs, board games, karaoke, dance, yoga, mindfulness and more. With access to outstanding outdoor facilities — courts, fields and a woodland den-building area — there’s plenty of variety for active play as well as quiet corners for reading or unwinding.

Food is another important part of the day. We provide healthy breakfasts and after-school snacks, with fresh fruit, vegetables and salad always available. Children are encouraged to prepare their own snacks and clear away afterwards, building independence and enjoying mealtimes together in a social setting. We’re proud to have achieved a five-star food hygiene rating at every inspection.

Smiles is led by Rachel, our Managing Director, who holds a Level 3 qualification in Early Years as well as training in paediatric first aid, safeguarding and more. She is supported by our dedicated wraparound childcare team of senior leaders, playworkers and play assistants, who together bring a wide range of experience from early years, preschools, nurseries, primary schools and leadership roles. This mix of skills ensures children benefit from both professional expertise and genuine enthusiasm for play, care and fun. Just as importantly, our consistent staffing means children and staff get to know each other well — building trust, familiarity and strong relationships that help children feel secure and at home.

Our wraparound childcare has also been recognised nationally. In 2021 we achieved the highest possible outcome from Ofsted, with outstanding feedback on the quality of our provision. In 2022 we were awarded the national SAFE Award for safeguarding, and in 2023 Rachel was named Manager of the Year at the Out of School Club Awards (OSCAs). These recognitions reflect the passion and dedication that go into everything we do.

At Smiles, we see each child as an individual, with their own talents and needs. Our aim is simple: that every child feels safe, happy and content here, and that you as their parent feel confident knowing they are well cared for. If your child requires before or after school childcare, we’d love to welcome you for a visit. Get in touch today to arrange a look around and see what makes our wraparound childcare such a positive part of the school day.