As Storal celebrates 10 years of creating extraordinary childhoods, we're sharing the stories of the families who have been part of our nurseries through different stages of life.
For some families, a nursery journey lasts a year or two. For others, it becomes woven into family life, with siblings following in each other's footsteps, familiar faces welcoming them through the door and relationships that grow stronger with every passing year.
As part of our 10 Years, 10 Stories anniversary series, Story 2 celebrates the families who have grown up with Storal and the special role our nurseries continue to play as families grow.
One family, three nursery journeys
For one Glebe Nursery School family, their story began in April 2023 when mum was on maternity leave with her second child.
While planning her return to work, she spotted an advert for the Office Manager role at Glebe Nursery School and immediately knew it was an opportunity she wanted to pursue.
"I actually cut my maternity leave short because it was the job I wanted."
At the time, her middle child was two years and ten months old and her youngest was just seven months old. Returning to work can be a daunting milestone for many parents, but knowing her children would be part of the same nursery community made the transition much easier.
"Going back to work was lovely because I could have my children there with me."
Today, all three of her boys have attended Glebe Nursery School, creating a family story that spans multiple rooms, key people, milestones and memories.
A place that felt right from the beginning
Although Glebe was not the closest nursery to the family home, something about it immediately stood out.
The beautiful surroundings, friendly atmosphere and welcoming team made a lasting first impression.
"When I saw the nursery, it was so nice. The environment was lovely and all of the staff were friendly."
That first feeling has never really changed.
Nestled amongst open countryside, Glebe Nursery School offers a nurturing environment where children can grow, explore and build confidence. The homely atmosphere and strong relationships between staff and families continue to be some of the things parents value most.
Growing up alongside familiar faces
One of the most special aspects of having multiple children attend the same nursery is seeing familiar faces throughout the years.
For this family, many of the same long-serving educators have been part of each child's journey, creating a reassuring sense of continuity and belonging.
"It's been special because it's where I work and where my children go."
Watching her children move through the nursery while being supported by a committed and caring team has created memories that will stay with the family long after their nursery years are over.
Now, the youngest child who once arrived as one of the smallest babies at the nursery has become the oldest child in Preschool.
Moments like these are a reminder of just how quickly childhood passes and how important it is to create environments where children feel safe, supported and encouraged to grow.
Relationships that last
Strong relationships are at the heart of every nursery experience, and for this family, the connections formed at Glebe have been particularly meaningful.
A special mention goes to Vicki Tuffnell, who was one son's key person from around 15 months old until he turned three.
As he moved through different rooms, she moved alongside him, helping to build a trusting and supportive relationship during some of his most important early years.
Even now, although they are no longer together in the same room, she continues to ask about him and take an interest in how he is doing.
These lasting bonds reflect the importance of relationships in early years education and help children develop the confidence and security they need to thrive.
The moments families remember
While there are countless everyday moments that make nursery special, some experiences stand out more than others.
For this family, stay-and-play sessions have created some of their favourite memories, providing opportunities to spend time together, see learning in action and share experiences within the nursery environment.
It is often these simple moments that become the most treasured. Watching children make friends, gain confidence and develop new skills can make parents feel connected to every stage of their child's journey.
A nursery that feels like home
When asked what she would say to a family considering joining Glebe Nursery School today, the answer comes without hesitation.
"Just do it. It's such a lovely nursery. The staff are so lovely and caring."
She also believes the setting itself makes Glebe unique. Surrounded by fields and beautiful outdoor spaces, the nursery has a rustic, homely feel that is difficult to find elsewhere.
"The best way I can describe it is that it's like coming home."
Growing together
Over the past decade, families across Storal have trusted our nurseries to support their children through some of life's biggest milestones.
For families with siblings who follow one another through our doors, those relationships grow over many years, creating shared memories that become part of their family story.
At Glebe Nursery School, one family's journey has seen three brothers grow, learn and thrive in the same nurturing environment, surrounded by familiar faces and caring educators.
As we celebrate 10 years of Storal, their story reminds us that extraordinary childhoods are not built in a single moment. They are built day by day, child by child and often sibling by sibling, creating connections that last long after children leave nursery.
Because when families find a place where they truly belong, they often choose to grow up with it.
To find out more about Glebe Nursery School, arrange a visit or speak to the team, we'd love to hear from you. Learn more on our website or get in touch to discover how Glebe could become part of your family's story.
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