The future of Barnabees nursery in Kidderminster was under threat when the first school where it was located closed, as part of a review to merge first and middle schools. Since becoming a stand-alone establishment, it achieved an 'outstanding' grading from Ofsted. It is the first Worcestershire nursery to receive the Eco-Schools Green Flag Award.
'Initially we were shocked and saddened that if the building was relocated, we would not be able to see the children grow and develop as they went through the school,' says Elain Bagnall, co-owner and manager. 'We then felt abandoned - as we were an independent nursery, we didn't come under any governing body who could practically support us.'
When the local education department closed the school in July 2007 it became a grey area as to who was responsible for it. The local church provided a much-needed lifeline.
'The church acted as caretaker for the nursery,' says Elain. 'It had a nearby hall in a poor state of repair, and they decided to relocate into the old school and develop it into a community building.
'The church agreed we could stay on site and develop the nursery for the good of the community. We rose to the challenge and have since created a wonderful environment where our children can flourish.'
The nursery now consists of two buildings. Bumblebee Hollow is solely for children aged two to three, and the second building, Barnabees, covers from three through to school age.
Barnabees regularly assesses its pupils through verbal questionnaires, gaining direct feedback on how the school can best be run. This process encouraged the outdoor learning methods the nursery promotes.
'When we asked children what they liked to do most, nearly all said "going outside",' recalls Elain. 'We quickly saw the benefits of an open free-flow facility and decided we could actually do all our learning outdoors. We can offer children the opportunity to learn holistically, by running about and using loud voices in their creative play.'
Barnabees was able to develop its outdoor resources as the nursery expanded. Provision now includes a woodland area, construction area, courtyard garden and pond. Activities range from counting and learning the alphabet, to karaoke and role-play.
The nursery has recently received an Eco-Schools Green Flag Award for its efforts in helping to improve the environment. These include recycling, saving water and electricity, promoting healthy eating and avoiding food wastage.
The 'outstanding' Ofsted report last November said that Barnabees staff offer an environment that is warm and welcoming, and provides an 'exceptional' range of high-quality toys and equipment that allow children to play independently and safely.
Upcoming plans include the 'mums and dads' initiative, which will enable parents to take an active role in their child's learning, and a health and safety week, which has been a great success in the past.
'We are delighted with the Ofsted result,' Elain says. 'We now look forward to a secure future.'