At Childcare Consultancy we are very excited about our project to manage the launch of a new day nursery in Catford, London. Over the next few months I will be using this column to share our progress with Nursery World readers.
Last week we met up with the client, Bethesda Ministries, a Christian ministry based in the London Borough of Lewisham. As part of their 'New Dimensions' initiative, a derelict coach house will be transformed into a high-quality nursery setting with 35 places.
Building work is due to commence in a few weeks, so we reviewed floor plans and made a few last-minute changes. One of these was moving the nursery office from the first floor to downstairs, opposite the main entrance. This will help ensure the manager is a visible presence in the nursery and can keep an eye on things, as well as greet visitors easily.
We had a big debate about the garden. The architect had designated quite a limited, square area for outdoor play. However, we agreed that by losing two parking bays we could dramatically increase the size of the garden, allowing the children full use of the cobbled pathway, which will be ideal for bikes and tricycles. It will also allow for more imaginative use of the rest of the space, and we're hoping to develop a sensory area and digging patches.
This is a brave decision. Parents and staff will have to park on the street, but in this instance we're right to sacrifice the 'drop-off' zone in favour of a quality outdoor area with real 'wow' factor. Plus, with no cars to contend with, children will be able to access the garden safely and freely.
Actually, that might not be possible all day. Planning officers have stipulated the garden can only be used from 10am-12pm and 2pm-4pm. This is a bit frustrating and it hinders best practice. We're hoping to appeal and also be granted permission to extend opening hours from 7.30am to 6.30pm. Currently we have consent to operate from 8am to 6pm, but that's not ideal for commuting parents.
Had better get on. I now need to devise a job description and advert for the nursery manager - we're starting the recruitment process next month to ensure that we find the right person nice and early, for what's going to be a wonderful setting.
Derek Hayes is senior consultant/trainer at the Childcare Consultancy. For information e-mail info@childcareconsult.co.uk.
