BGF has completed a multi-million-pound investment in Clever Clogs Day Nursery – a childcare group with sites across the North East of England – to support expansion across the region.
Founded in 2006 when Andrea Townsley opened the group’s first nursery in Durham, Clever Clogs has since grown to three childcare settings, following the acquisition of an additional site in Durham in 2011 and the acquisition of Little Ladybirds in Stockton-on-Tees in 2021, broadening its geographic footprint. The childcare group, which has capacity for around 340 children across its three sites, employs more than 100 staff.
The group has established a strong reputation for childcare quality, with two of its three sites rated Outstanding by Ofsted. It is also consistently ranked within the top 20 Day Nursery Groups in the UK by daynurseries.com. BGF’s investment will allow Clever Clogs to continue delivering first class childcare, while helping to expand the brand across the North East through organic growth, opening new sites and M&A.
Andrea Townsley, founder of Clever Clogs Day Nursery, commented: “Since opening our first nursery 20 years ago, we’ve worked hard to build a business that puts children and their families first. Being outstanding is not reserved for inspections – we strive for high standards every day, providing inclusive childcare while creating a sense of community across each of our settings. This commitment won’t waver as we grow.
“The expansion of funded childcare is increasing demand for nursery places, giving us an opportunity to bring our approach to more families across the region. Finding the right investment partner was important to us, and BGF shares our long-term ambitions and commitment to maintaining the standards that have made Clever Clogs successful so far.”
As part of the deal, John Healey, Investor at BGF, will join the board. Ann Elliott, who was sourced via BGF’s Talent Network and brings deep experience in early years care, takes up the position of Chair.
John Healey, Investor at BGF, commented: “Clever Clogs is a wonderful business that has demonstrated a clear commitment to childcare quality over the past 20 years. Andrea’s ability to expand while maintaining standards and a personal approach makes the group stand out among its peers.
“Having previously supported the growth of childcare businesses across the UK and Ireland, we understand the opportunities and challenges that come with scaling in this sector. We look forward to working with Andrea and the team to build on their success to date and bring a high-quality service to more communities across the North East.”
BGF has previously supported childcare businesses across the UK and Ireland, including Tigers Childcare and Kids Planet Day Nurseries, with the latter becoming the UK’s largest independent private nursery operator.
