About Early Steps Daycare
Family-Run Nursery & Childcare in Whitechapel, Tower Hamlets
A Place Where Learning Feels Like Home
At Early Steps Daycare, our PENCIL values is paramount. as it guides our steps and individual approaches to early years education:
Play
We create joyful opportunities for children to learn through play, imagination and meaningful experiences every day.
Explore
We encourage curiosity and discovery, allowing children to investigate the world around them with confidence.
Nurture
We provide a warm and caring environment where children feel safe, supported and emotionally secure.
Care
We model kindness, empathy and respect, helping children build positive relationships with others.
Include
We value every child as unique, promoting equality, respect and a true sense of belonging.
Learn
We inspire a love of learning through engaging experiences tailored to each child’s development.
At Early Steps Daycare, we believe every child deserves a safe, happy space where curiosity can bloom.
Our nursery in Whitechapel, London is more than just childcare. It’s a welcoming community where children aged 9 months to 5 years can explore, learn, and grow at their own pace.
Founded in 2023 by husband-and-wife team Aqeel Anwar (qualified primary school teacher) and Imrose Malji (qualified social worker), we opened our doors with one simple mission: to give local families a trusted, nurturing environment where children thrive both emotionally and academically.
Our Story
After a decade of teaching, Aqeel saw the difference a warm, playful approach could make to a child’s confidence.
Imrose, working with families in social care, knew the early years were the foundation for everything that followed. Together, they imagined a place that combined educational excellence with genuine care — and Early Steps Daycare was born.
Our Approach to Early Years Learning
We follow the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) framework, blending it with hands-on activities that bring learning to life.
Your child will enjoy:
Outdoor play in our safe garden, with a mud kitchen, sand area, and space to explore nature
Creative arts, music, and sensory play to spark imagination
Quiet, calming spaces for rest and emotional support
Small group sizes, ensuring every child feels seen and valued
We’re also lucky to be just minutes from Whitechapel Station, Brick Lane, and local parks — perfect for little adventures.
Why Families Choose Us
Family-run & personal — you’ll always know who’s caring for your child
Qualified, passionate staff trained in safeguarding, First Aid, and child development
Flexible funding options, including government-funded hours for eligible families
Glowing parent reviews praising our caring approach and strong learning outcomes
“Best thing I can say is that I am at peace every day I leave my son with the Manager and the Team.” – Parent of a 3-year-old
“Lets embark on a wonderful journey together… One full of adventure, laughter, learning and development, proudly by your side, as you child takes their Early Steps, with us…”
— Aqeel, Founder of Early Steps Daycare
Visit Us & See the Difference
Choosing childcare is a big decision — we’d love to welcome you for a free visit so you can meet our team, explore our learning spaces, and see our approach in action.
