Two Portsmouth pre-schools have been celebrating their merger, which has led to more benefits for children and families.
Brunel Meredith Pre-School on Portchester Road has united with Little Thinkers Nursery and Pre-School, also situated on the same road, to form a larger Little Thinkers setting at the heart of the city.
Special guests, which included Councillor Ben Swann from Portsmouth City Council and the Little Thinkers mascot Sparky, enjoyed a tour of the premises, cake, and a ribbon-cutting ceremony.
Little Thinkers, which is a proud member of the Thinking Schools Academy Trust, now has the capacity to support more than 112 children per day since the move to join forces with the hardworking team at Brunel Meredith.
Sonia Nickerson, Strategic Lead and Director of Little Thinkers, says the change was ambitious, but it’s exciting to see everything come together.
She said: “Even though I thought the plan to completely move the site was incredibly adventurous, I believed in the team who were 100% determined to make it happen for the benefit of every child that comes through Little Thinkers.
“Our new setting allows us to offer the community the childcare that it demands; we have ample space for young babies and toddlers and our pre-school rooms are already full.”
Because of the strong relationship between Little Thinkers and New Horizons Primary School, which are both members of the Thinking Schools Academy Trust and situated beside each other, the pre-school and nursery are in a firm position to provide an all-through educational experience.
Sonia continued: “We are committed to our community and our aim is mirrored with New Horizons and the Thinking Schools Academy Trust, which is to transform the life chances of every child.
“We’re focused on offering our babies a home away from home where they can thrive and be given the opportunity to wonder. Children of all ages are given experiences that make them ask questions and want to learn more, preparing them for primary education.”
Jack Jones, Head of School at New Horizons Primary School, said: “Congratulations to the team at Little Thinkers for their successful opening and celebration event. Together, we are serving the same community and are unified in our mission to transform the life chances of every child.
“Children at Little Thinkers will have the opportunity to benefit from the all-through educational journey that Thinking Schools are able to offer, ensuring they continue to receive a good education for their whole education by joining us next door when the time comes.
“I’m looking forward to collaborating with the Little Thinkers team, the children and their families to strive to make a positive difference each and every day.”
