Not a good workplace to recommend - Nursery Room Leader Hatching Dragons Employee Review

I’ve been with Hatching Dragons for almost 10 years, and I can honestly say it’s the longest and most meaningful chapter of my career. I’ve grown not just as an early years professional, but as a leader, a thinker, and a person. What makes Hatching Dragons Westminster truly special is its vision. This is not a nursery that simply provides childcare- it is deeply rooted in education, global citizenship, and cultural awareness. Children are exposed to languages, arts, sustainability, world cultures, and big ideas from the very beginning, in a way that feels natural, joyful, and age-appropriate. The curriculum is ambitious and thoughtfully designed. Whether it’s modern languages, STEAM, festivals from around the world, or specialist-led sessions in music, movement, mindfulness, and sport, everything has purpose. You are trusted as an educator to think deeply about your practice and encouraged to continuously reflect and improve. Leadership genuinely invests in staff development. Over the years, I’ve been supported to take on responsibility, grow in confidence, and develop professionally. There is a strong culture of coaching, reflection, and internal progression, which is rare in early years. The children are incredible- curious, confident, kind, and articulate — and that is a direct result of the environment and values the nursery upholds. Families are engaged, respectful, and aligned with the school’s ethos, which makes day-to-day work far more rewarding. Is it demanding? Yes - the standards are high, and expectations are clear. But if you care deeply about education, culture, and doing things properly (not just ticking boxes), this is an inspiring place to work. After a decade here, I still believe in what we do. Hatching Dragons Westminster is not for everyone but for the right people, it’s a place where you can build a career you’re genuinely proud of. Would I recommend it? Absolutely especially to educators who want more than “just a nursery job.”

The curriculum is ambitious, which can feel overwhelming at first, especially for practitioners who are new to Hatching Dragons or who have only worked in more traditional early years settings.

Flexible working hours that suit different schedules. Supportive colleagues and welcoming nursery teams. Good exposure to EYFS practices and child development. Opportunity to work across different settings and gain varied experience. Positive environment focused on children’s wellbeing and learning.

Work can be physically and emotionally demanding, especially during busy periods. Shift availability may vary week to week, which can make income less predictable. Limited long-term progression for bank staff without moving into a permanent role.