The brand new nursery at Barrow Hills School, Witley recently celebrated its official grand opening, with Sally Marks, Chairman of Surrey County Council cutting the ribbon and unveiling a commemorative plaque. After a blessing by Gillie Nicholls, Chaplain at Barrow Hills School, Mrs Marks joined the guests to celebrate with a traditional children’s tea party.
The nursery, which is on the Barrow Hills School site, has capacity to initially offer a maximum of 12 places. The decision to introduce a nursery facility at the School provides parents with access to a seamless education for their child from the age of two to 13 years. Prior to the opening of the nursery, Barrow Hills already offered care and education for the Early Years Foundation Stage (ages three to five) via its kindergarten and reception classes but with the additional nursery offering, the pre-prep ensures an easy transition for children and for parents as the child progresses through the school.
In addition to the interior building work in the Early Years Department to create the nursery, further new furniture, play equipment, educational toys and resources have also been purchased to create an exciting and stimulating environment. A ‘Free Flow’ facility, which allows the younger children to experience learning both inside and outside the classroom setting year round, will also be available.
Commenting on the opening, Acting Headmaster Paul Crisell said: “We are delighted that Mrs Marks was able to join us today, to mark a new chapter in the school’s life. I’d like to take this opportunity to thank the many people who’ve worked so tirelessly to help realise our decision to create a dedicated nursery at Barrow Hills, especially Sue Pulleyn, our Head of Pre-Prep, Guy Clarke, our Head of Maintenance and Graham Powell, School Governor and Architect. We extend a warm welcome to the younger children who have joined the special caring and nurturing environment that is unique to Barrow Hills and look forward to supporting every child as they start their educational journey.”