Two nurseries acquired this year by Children 1st @ Breedon House are already proving a success under new ownership. Its Shepshed nursery in Loughborough was recently judged by Ofsted as outstanding, while Plum Tree in Nottingham was graded good, with outstanding in certain areas.
In both cases Children 1st was approached by the vendors. Managing director Jacqui Mason says, 'The former owners of Plum Tree approached us because they felt we would look after the nursery and take the business forward. Meanwhile, a property company alerted us to the Shepshed site, which had been up for sale for some time. We decided to pay it a visit and immediately recognised its potential.'
Both nurseries boast new baby suites which take babies from six weeks old. 'We wanted to recreate the beautiful baby rooms we have in our other nurseries,' says Ms Mason. 'They have been equipped with Community Playthings furniture, using sustainable woods and natural fabrics. The lighting and decor has been designed to provide a homely feel that helps very young babies to build familiar relationships in a warm and secure environment.'
The two new nurseries have provided career opportunities for existing staff. The team at Plum Tree is almost entirely made up of staff who have moved over from other Children 1st nurseries, with a former deputy manager promoted to manager and a nursery nurse promoted to senior practitioner. At Shepshed, the original staff team has been expanded, and a rigorous induction process has ensured that everyone is working to the same high standards.
Ms Mason says it has been fantastic to see local parents' reaction to both nurseries. 'At Shepshed, parents have commented on its stunning transformation and felt that achieving outstanding came down to the hard work, patience and determination of the team. Similarly at Plum Tree, staff are forging strong links with parents and this commitment is being recognised.'
While Children 1st says it was not seeking to expand its 11 nurseries at the beginning of this year, it believes these two new sites are a valuable and sustainable addition to its organisation. 'Occupancy in both sites is growing steadily and the nurseries have already established very strong local reputations. Eventually we would like to grow to 15 nurseries.'
Earlier this year its River View Nursery in Leicester was also graded outstanding. The inspector praised the effectiveness of its training for the key person under the EYFS and noted how all children were 'clearly very relaxed in the setting'.
