Our new nursery is coming soon to East Ham – and we’re excited! So we caught up with Stacey, our Service Director – Children, Youth and Families Provision and Andrea, our new Nursery Manager to find out more…

As well as overseeing the nursery at Bonny Downs, Stacey and Andrea are responsible for our other childcare and children’s activities, from our After School Club, to our parent and toddler groups which meet three times a week, and our Youth programme for Newham 9-19 year olds.

What do you enjoy most about working in childcare at Bonny Downs and why?

Andrea: Working with Children! It’s fun, and no single day at work is ever the same.

Stacey: The people! We are so blessed to be part of such a diverse vibrant community which, between us, has lots of skills and talents. We share the joys and challenges of life together and someone is always there with a cup of tea!!

How would you describe the approach to childcare at Bonny Downs?

Stacey: We are a village raising our children together and we do this by having parent-led steering groups and with a ‘do with’ approach rather than a ‘do for’ approach. We believe that everyone’s contribution is valid – especially the children’s: they are our harshest critics and we do our best to ensure that their voices and ideas are heard. We also love to be creative together – this includes cooking, doing arts and crafts, celebrating festivals and generally laughing and having fun!

Andrea: The children are our priority, so we always make sure they are OK and we work closely with the parents to provide the best care possible. When the children are with us, we always strive to ensure they have the best day ever!

How will the new nursery make a difference to the local community?

Andrea: Finding childcare can be a big stress for parents in Newham because there is not much pre-school provision on offer and it can be expensive. Our nursery will fill a big gap, bringing a service run by local people who will ensure your children are safe and well looked, and at a competitive price.

Stacey: Our team is made up of local parents who understand the juggles of caring for children while working and managing family life. We always want to be as flexible and accommodating of our neighbours’ busy family lives as possible and to deliver a flexible childcare option which means you can continue to work, study or just have a day a week to yourself!

What are you most looking forward to with the new nursery?

Stacey: I’m so excited to get to know the children and their families and follow their development. At Bonny Downs, we love nothing more than meeting families at toddler group, then seeing the children go onto our After School Club, Summer Scheme and then onto our Youth project and Young Leaders development programme. We’ve even seen some of those Young Leaders then bring their children to the toddler groups, so the cycle starts again!

Andrea: I’m just really excited to be helping start a new project that will bring joy to the community and will help the families of our community out with much-needed childcare!

What would you say to a local parent who might be interested in registering their child for our new nursery?

Andrea: Are you looking for a place where your child can learn and grow at their own pace, in a creative space where they can have a great adventure while being safe and well look after? If so, Bonny downs nursery is the place for you!

Stacey: At Bonny Downs we really care. Your child is not just a number to us, but a valid member of our community. We cannot wait to be part of your children’s journey and growth!

Why not visit us and learn more about our nursery at our informal Open Day on Tuesday 11 January 2022? To register to attend, click here!

Or if you’re ready to apply for a place for your child, we’re now taking applications. Complete our form here!