Busy Bees Nurseries - Busy Bees in Bicester, Bure Park Reviews 

Our experience with Busy Bees unfortunately did not start well, and it didn’t improve over time. Despite receiving an automated email advising that someone would contact us about settling‑in sessions, no one reached out. As the start date approached, we still had no communication and had to chase repeatedly. When the sessions were finally arranged, they were booked very close together, and the first was cancelled on the day due to staff sickness. When I asked whether this was likely to happen once our child officially started, I was told that agency staff would be brought in for “real” sessions — implying that settling‑in sessions were not considered important enough to ensure cover. This meant our child missed a vital settling session, and unfortunately this set the tone for the experience.

On the first actual day, the Centre Director opened the door without any welcome or greeting, which immediately felt uninviting. After lunch, we contacted the room to check how our child was settling and whether they had eaten, and were told everything was fine. However, at collection our child ran over crying, and we learned they had not eaten anything all day. They also had a cut on their nose, and when we asked what had happened, the room leader could only guess it occurred during their nap — nothing had been recorded.

We continued for a month because we had no alternative childcare at the time, but it was extremely difficult. Drop‑offs were distressing, and we often tried to collect early because our child was clearly struggling. We were relieved when we were finally able to move to another setting.

There were a few kind staff members, and I later learned that the Centre Director had left, which may explain some of the behaviour we experienced — but regardless, the lack of professionalism and organisation had a real impact. Our child is naturally a little shy, but the experience at Busy Bees did not help them settle or build confidence. Which was very disappointing as it looked good initially, with the newly rennovated room and the app is good. Our child's new setting has been a completely different experience: more professional, more attentive, and far better equipped to support them.

Super disappointed with the service from the admin staff, they lie and try and gaslight you just to squeeze every drop of money out of you they can, as all they ultimately care about is money!

The staff in the rooms however are great and take good care of the kids, but if it wasn’t for the extended hours they offer I wouldn’t be using them.

My daughter enjoys her days at nursery, she’s learnt so much in the last 8 months she’s been attending. I love the app and getting updates throughout the day. She enjoys the meals the provide too, she’s very fussy but they manage to get her to eat it!

Both of my children have loved it in Busy Bees Bure Park. It was their second home and most the key workers were absolutely outstanding and very caring.
They had fun, got messy and although they were happy to see us at pick up time, they sometimes wouldn't wan to leave!

The staff at Busy Bees Bicester have been so friendly and welcoming to my daughter. They ensured that she settled well and is always doing fun activities. She really loves the staff and is always eager to go to nursery, I would highly recommend.

Nice staff, helpful and very patient with the little ones. They care, preparation and dedication gives our children the best start for the future.