Manager Louise Hobbs says, ‘There is strong demand for quality childcare in the area, particularly as one local pre-school has recently closed. Willows Farm Village is already a strong local attraction for parents and our three weekends of preview evenings in December have succeeded in getting the nursery off to a flying start.’
Ms Hobbs says that it was important to create a home-from-home feel and with this in mind the nursery has two separate entrances for the under-threes and pre-schoolers respectively. Rooms are large and spacious, leading to a pre-school garden and baby garden. ‘The pre-school garden has a large sandpit, water facilities and a wigwam. There are also great facilities for parents, with a coffee lounge and library area,’ says Ms Hobbs.
All food is prepared freshly on site with the advice of a nutritionist, and children will be encouraged to grow and cook themselves. There are lots of opportunities for interaction with the farm animals, including the nursery pony.
Ms Hobbs says, ‘We can accommodate up to 25 babies and we are seeing a lot of demand for this age-group. Parents recognise that we can provide a fantastic outdoor experience for them. I have recruited highly qualified staff, including an EYP, and as occupancy grows we expect to have over 40 staff in place.'
She adds, ‘Everything including nappies is included in the fees and the nursery is very much part of Willows Farm Village and all it provides, which is very appealing to parents.’