A children's charity has vowed to continue serving Gateshead's children amid the search for a new nursery site.
From September 1, 2023, Spring Childcare, a branch of Action for Children, will no longer be operating the nursery at Bensham Grove Nursery School. The school, on Sidney Grove, will now operate its own nursery.
Action For Children is now in the process of looking for new premises to allow parents who wish to remain with Spring Childcare to do so.
Read More: New Baltic Quarter hotel contractor reaffirms commitments to local labour
The school will also become the new childcare and education provision at the Elgin Centre, formerly Spring Deckham, further extending its outstanding offer to more families in Gateshead.
Helen Bowlby, operations manager at Action for Children’s Spring Nursery Bensham, said: “Spring Nursery Bensham has delivered outstanding childcare and education to children across Gateshead for over 12 years and will continue to provide award-winning support to children and families.
“We are currently identifying new premises for the nursery to continue offering our Early Years provision, with as little disruption as possible whilst providing consistency for the children.
“We will be meeting with families in the next week to discuss individual options and ensure a smooth transition for each child. Parents wishing to remain with Spring will be offered a discounted space at our other local nurseries based at Leam Lane, Blaydon and Highfield, whilst we secure new premises. The staff team is also being supported during the transition period.”
Councillor Gary Haley, cabinet member for children and young people at Gateshead Council, said: “Bensham Grove Nursery School staff are a credit to the school, demonstrating our commitment to providing the best education and care for children and young people in Gateshead.
“By extending its provision to provide for 0–5-year-olds at both Bensham Grove and the Elgin Centre, the school will be able to support children and their families to build relationships with the outstanding Bensham Grove community.”
Mrs Denise Kilner, head teacher at Bensham Grove Nursery School, said: “We couldn’t be prouder of the education and childcare experience we offer our school community at Bensham Grove Nursery.
“Our school has once again been recognised as ‘Outstanding’ by Ofsted, which reflects our high-quality provision, as well as our investment in staff and our commitment to continuous improvement.
“We’re excited to be extending our offer even further to become the childcare providers at Bensham Grove and at the Elgin Centre, which will mean even more children from across our communities can benefit from our outstanding offer.”
