This year marks a very special milestone for Ashby Nursery School as we celebrate 30 years of caring for children, supporting families and being part of life in Ashby-de-la-Zouch.
Since opening its doors in 1996, the nursery has welcomed generations of local children through its North Street setting. Located opposite the town's library and leisure centre, the nursery has grown alongside the community, building lasting relationships with families and creating memories that span decades.
Over the years, Ashby Nursery School has continued to evolve to meet the needs of children and families. Since joining the Storal family in 2018, the nursery has benefited from ongoing investment, including the creation of a dedicated Preschool Academy and an extended outdoor garden. These improvements followed the acquisition of the neighbouring building in 2020, giving children even more space to learn, play and explore.
But while the nursery itself has changed over the years, what has remained the same is its strong sense of community.
From hosting charity fetes and fundraising events to taking part in the town's Christmas celebrations and remembrance activities, Ashby Nursery School has always been committed to giving back locally. The nursery continues to support causes close to its heart, including baby loss awareness charity Sands, while maintaining strong connections with families long after their children have moved on to school.
In fact, some of those connections have come full circle.
One of the most heartwarming examples is current apprentice Evie Vardy, who attended Ashby Nursery School as a child and is now part of the team herself. She works alongside Marie Nevin, the nursery's longest-serving colleague, who has been there since the very beginning.
Marie joined the nursery when it first opened as a nursery nurse and has spent the last three decades supporting children and families across the local area. During that time, she progressed into leadership roles across the former Swingboat Nurseries group, including Ashby, Hermitage and Woodville, helping shape the experiences of countless children along the way.
Reflecting on the anniversary, Marie shared:
"I am proud to have been part of Ashby's journey from the very beginning. One of our greatest achievements is the high standards of care and education we've maintained throughout the years. We have always been committed to providing the very best experiences for children and their families, and it means so much to still see former children and parents in the community who remember their time with us."
She added:
"What makes Ashby special is the consistency of the team and the culture we've built. We have colleagues who have been here for 15, 20 and even 30 years, and that says a great deal about the nursery and the relationships we have with families."
That long-standing commitment from the team continues to make a difference today. Alongside its nurturing environment and strong early years education, the nursery is known for its SEND provision and works closely with local schools to help children feel confident and prepared as they make the transition into primary education.
For Nursery Manager Kerry Nettel, the anniversary is an opportunity to celebrate both the nursery's history and the people who have made it so special.
"Celebrating this anniversary is a testament to the dedication of our team, past and present. We are incredibly proud of the role Ashby Nursery School has played in the lives of local families over the years. Marie's story is a wonderful example of the passion, care and commitment that has helped shape our nursery, and we're excited to continue supporting children and families for many years to come."
As Ashby Nursery School celebrates its 30th year, it's not just looking back on the generations of children who have come through its doors. It's also looking ahead to the families, milestones and memories still to come.
Here's to the next chapter.
