Part of the team behind an Ofsted-rated outstanding nursery in Fulwood have now branched out.

Newlands Nursery School in Tower Lane changed ownership last year and now Elaine Cooke and Lisa Charnley have opened a new children’s play centre.

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Round the side of the Ancient Oak pub in Cottam the Kinder Hub play area is suitable for children aged under seven.

Lisa told Business Lancashire: “The Kinder Hub venture first began when we craved for somewhere different to take our children and grandchildren in the local area. With our extensive early years background, we knew that the one thing that could keep children engaged for any great length of time is role play.

“At the Kinder Hub, you will find fantastic role-play areas for young children to develop their imaginations and have fun, whilst under supervision. The specially designed indoor play areas, called the mini village, include a mini supermarket, fire station, police station, ambulance, mechanic garage, builders’ yard and theatre, all conveniently accessed by a miniature road.

“Dressing up clothes and accessories are in all the areas, so children can act out real life role playing, either as individuals or in a group. The climbing structure in the centre has been designed to provide a space for children to develop their physical skills, as well as burn off some of their energy.”

Fellow director Elaine Cooke had operated the Newlands Nursery for 25 years, which is now run by the Cheshire-based Kids Planet firm.

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Elaine said: “Imaginative play is crucial for young children. It can help to develop social skills, communication and creativity. Where their imagination may take them is absolutely endless, even more so, when they have other children to connect with.

“In addition to the mini village, we will also be a host to various classes, activities and well-being sessions including yoga and baby massage, music and movement, phonics sessions and many other activities taking place in our theatre area. These will all help to assist children with their holistic development through fun, exciting and engaging sessions. These classes can complement your child’s nursery education or provide learning experiences for children who do not attend an early years’ setting.

“Whilst we fully encourage parents to get involved in their child’s play, helping them to share, make friends and interact positively with other children, we also know that parents may be keen to have a well-deserved rest. With this in mind, we have designed a lovely café, serving hot/cold drinks, breakfast, healthy light lunches and delicious cakes and biscuits.

“Our combined total of over 40 years’ experience of working with young children, has taught us the need and importance of maintaining a clean and hygienic environment, which is why our team will be meticulous when it comes to cleanliness. We pride ourselves on having spotlessly clean toilets, highchairs, baby equipment, chairs, tables and play areas. With regular inspection checks, our aim is for our customers to be able to eat and play safe in the knowledge that everything has been suitably sanitised for use. It is this attention to detail which won us the Ofsted Outstanding recognition.”

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The Kinder Hub is due to open to the public on Monday 4 March at 9.30am.

Here’s more pictures from inside