Here, Rebecca Crosby, founder of Monkey Puzzle Day Nurseries, speaks with the franchisee for Monkey Puzzle Stevenage, Natasha Moniz, reflecting on her journey into franchising and how she is looking forward to running her second setting.
Natasha Moniz is excited to open her second setting with Monkey Puzzle this December and to show the local community what she and her team have been working hard to create. “I’m thrilled to finally welcome families to our new nursery. We’ve spent a lot of time ensuring the nursery will be an excellent environment for children to develop in. It’s exciting to be able to offer something truly special right here in Stevenage.”
Monkey Puzzle Stevenage is Natasha’s second setting with the brand, initially joining us in 2019 as our franchisee for our Astwick setting. “I’d worked in early years education for over a decade – I started as a nursery practitioner, before working my way up to deputy manager and then manager.
“I’d always wanted to run my own nursery and when I was doing my research, Monkey Puzzle really caught my eye! Everyone I talked to was really friendly and knowledgeable. You could see that they practised what they preached too – I was really impressed with their proven track record of opening successful nursery schools – investing just felt right.”
Following on from the success of her first setting, when the chance came for Natasha to invest in a second territory, she jumped at it. “Monkey Puzzle approached me to see if I was interested in running another setting. The site, in Stevenage, is closer to where I live and where my kids go to school, so it all made perfect sense!”
Standing out for Natasha was the nursery’s large garden, which includes a gate leading directly into the local woods, providing exciting opportunities for children to take part in forest school sessions. “Monkey Puzzle Astwick is actually located on a farm, so I know how essential outdoor space is for the children. I’m a big believer in the importance of outdoor learning – having access to the woods for forest school is a fantastic way for the children to connect with nature and explore the worlds around them.”
Located on Featherston Road and adjacent to the local primary school, the nursery is situated in the heart of Stevenage, on the site of the former Bandley Hill Play Centre. Marking their upcoming launch in style, the nursery welcomed families to a festive open day full of Christmas-themed activities, seasonal treats and guided tours showcasing what the new setting has to offer.
Natasha and her team are dedicated to creating a warm, welcoming environment where children can play, learn and grow. “We’re in a residential area, but the nursery building is away from traffic, which creates a lovely peaceful and private space for all the children.
“Our goal is to create a home away from home for all the little ones we’re lucky enough to look after!”
The upcoming launch of our newest nursery in Stevenage is a moment of great pride for everyone at Monkey Puzzle. Natasha is a testament to everything we believe in as a brand, so we know Stevenage will be a great success!
Rebecca Crosby is the founder of Monkey Puzzle, alongside Mark Crosby. The undisputed market leader of the franchised nursery sector, Monkey Puzzle Day Nurseries is preparing to expand. Click here for more information.
