Nursery World - New nursery group now poised to buy larger chain

The nursery group Creative Education, which trades under the brand name of Primary Steps, has acquired an 18.5 per cent stake of Academy Childcare, one of the UK's largest chains. Creative Education said last week it had acquired the share of the business for a total consideration of 288,600 and its chief executive, David Alexander, added that it had 'the option to buy the rest'. He said, 'We are delighted to have acquired this stake in Academy Childcare as this will considerably strengthen our position within the marketplace.'

Creative Education said last week it had acquired the share of the business for a total consideration of 288,600 and its chief executive, David Alexander, added that it had 'the option to buy the rest'. He said, 'We are delighted to have acquired this stake in Academy Childcare as this will considerably strengthen our position within the marketplace.'

Primary Steps, specialising in settings for up to 50 children, has been running for just three years and has 11 nurseries and one pre-preparatory school, all based in London and the south-east, with a total of around 400 places. Academy Childcare owns 12 nurseries in England but has more than double the places of Primary Steps. Its plan to open a 128-place purpose-built nursery in Guildford next April will take its number of places to just under 1,100.

Register now to continue reading

Thank you for visiting Nursery World and making use of our archive of more than 35,000 expert features, subject guides, case studies and policy updates. Why not register today and enjoy the following great benefits:

What's included