Derby Entrepreneur Beth Wheatley has expanded her family-focussed brand, becoming not only a magazine owner but a nursery founder too.
Lots for Tots Childcare officially opened its doors in Hilton on September 1, providing local families with high-quality nursery spaces just in time for the government’s expanded childcare hours. Founded by Beth, who also owns the popular family what’s on guide Lots for Tots Derbyshire, the nursery represents a major step in her mission to support families across Derbyshire.
Originally planning to open in Derby, Beth pivoted to Hilton after challenges securing a suitable site. Once committed, she worked to an ambitious deadline to ensure the nursery was ready by July, aligning with the September launch of the new government childcare hours.
“Before we opened, I already had parents who had heard of Lots for Tots and wanted to move their children to the nursery as soon as it was open,” said Beth. “The brand has definitely helped us get going, and I’m confident demand will continue. Derbyshire is a fantastic place to do business – there’s a strong community of families, excellent local support networks, and opportunities to make a real difference for parents and children. Every child deserves to feel loved, respected, and valued, and at Lots for Tots Childcare, we create a warm, welcoming environment where children feel safe to express themselves and build bonds. For anyone thinking of starting or diversifying a business here, now is a really exciting time.”
The launch comes at a time of strong local demand. The 30-hour childcare scheme is enabling parents who may not have returned to work until their children started school to enter the workforce part-time, while others are using professional childcare instead of relying on grandparents for a couple of days a week.
While attracting families has been a success, recruiting qualified staff has proved more challenging. Beth, who has a background in HR, explained: “There is a national shortage of staff with Level 3 childcare qualifications. On top of that, verifying whether qualifications are recognised and from authorised providers can be tricky. Some applicants thought they were qualified, but their credentials weren’t recognised by the industry. Funding restrictions also limit the rates we can pay, making it harder to attract and retain staff. I think the government needs to look at funding and qualification clarity to support nurseries like ours. We only get one chance at childhood—it’s our responsibility as caregivers, educators, and business leaders to cherish it.”
Looking ahead, Beth has her sights set on opening a Derby nursery within the next 12-18 months under the Lots for Tots Childcare brand. She aims to provide flexible childcare solutions that reflect the diverse needs of families in the area while honouring families’ trust and cherishing children as if they were her own. She said: “Childhood is precious, and at Lots for Tots, every moment of discovery and growth is cherished. I’m truly excited for our future in childcare in Derbyshire.”
For more information, please visit www.lotsfortotschildcare.co.uk or email [email protected] or call 07970627385.
