A Colne nursery that was last year threatened with closure is going from strength to strength thanks to an extensive investment.
Formerly known as the Little People of Colne, Safehands Green Start Nursery, in Derby Street, was one of six nurseries across Lancashire and Cumbria to be acquired back in January as part of a £2.5million deal.
The site had been slammed by Ofsted inspectors in August 2012, following an inspection in July. It had failed in 16 out of 17 categories and was given a Notice to Improve by the watchdog.
Now, in the run up to the Nursery Open Week at the end of the month, Safehands Green Start bosses have revealed how their Colne nursery now benefits from brand new signage, a total redecoration and new equipment, including toys and learning aids.
Managing director of Safehands Paul Manning said: “The nurseries became known for a poor standard of care and facilities, rebuilding its reputation is now our main aim, and we want to prove to parents and carers that under our ownership their children will benefit from the highest of standards in care and the facilities that are provided.”
And CEO of Safehands Simon Rigby added: “The provision of nursery care is integral to a local community — communities which should expect the highest of standards when leaving their loved ones in the care of others.
“When we learnt of the difficulties faced by Little Craft Nurseries and the failing standards families were encountering, we intervened and have now installed a proven concept that allows children to grow, learn and enjoy their nursery years to the fullest in a safe and enriching environment, reestablishing a new standard of care in the Colne area.”
Colne’s Safehands Green Start Nursery is an 80-place venue close to the town centre. It was established in 1997.
Since being taken over by Safehands, childcare operations manager Kate Martin said that as well as investing in the aesthetics and facilities of the Colne nursery, extensive training has also been given to staff.
She added: “When we acquired nurseries we understood the work that would be required to transform the sites into first class facilities, which will help children grow and learn in a safe and enriching environment. I truly believe this is now what we have created for the people of Colne.”
Residents are invited to attend the Nursery Open Week and tour its news facilities between Tuesday, May 28th, and Friday, May 31st.
The building will be open to the public between 9am and 4pm.
New starters are also being offered free childcare for a month.