After a decade of nurturing hundreds of young minds a childcare centre is soon to mark a new chapter.
There were celebrations as parents, children and staff enjoyed a memorable party at YMCA Childcare St Margaret's Road to mark its 10th anniversary of providing early years provision in Lowestoft.
YMCA Childcare St Margaret’s Road, a part of YMCA Trinity Group, held a special Gruffalo-themed 10th-anniversary party to mark the occasion.
Hailed as "an amazing day," it comes amid a pending change in operation for the centre, following the recent government announcement that applications for childcare are now open for parents of nine-month-olds.
With the event packed with various outdoor games, face painting and opportunities for youngsters to explore their imaginations and craft, it was made even more memorable by a special guest appearance from a friendly Gruffalo.
Kim Streater, childcare manager for YMCA Childcare St Margaret’s Road and YMCA Childcare Water Lane, supported the running of the special event.
She said: "For ten years now, we’ve been committed to providing a safe and stimulating space where children can thrive.
"The event was a fantastic way to celebrate a decade of dedicated service to the children of Lowestoft.
"Seeing children enjoy being creative with playdough, exploring Gruffalo-inspired recipes in the mud kitchen, and building a log pile house in our nature area at the party – that’s the positive impact we strive for.
"It was a lot of fun, with a Gruffalo hunt and birthday cake to top it off and mark our significant milestone!"
With national changes to childcare funding and support launched by the Department for Education (DfE) last month, an extension of childcare support for children of eligible working parents from the age of nine months and over was introduced.
This means that new families will now be able to benefit from the support of childcare settings, including that of YMCA St Margaret’s Road, from September 2024.
With spaces still available, to secure your child’s place at YMCA Lowestoft visit its website.
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