Mansfield nursery school is ‘over the moon’ as it reopens to tots

Youngsters as small at three were welcomed back at Oak Tree Primary and Nursery School earlier this month by staff, who have set up a range of activities designed to put the children at ease and help with their development.

Miss Wood, who has worked in the school’s nursery for more than 20 years, said she was "over the moon” to welcome back the children and greet some new starters.

She said: “We have made lots of changes during lockdown to make the children and parents feel safe when returning to school.

"Having been graded good by Ofsted in our early years setting, we are now striving for outstanding and are fully committed to making sure our children get the best possible start in life.

"We cannot wait to see their smiling faces again.”

Kate Watson, head teacher at the Jubilee Way North school, said staff could not wait to see pupils again after school was locked down with the rest of the country in March.

Mrs Watson said: “Our early years provision forms the foundation of everything we do here at Oak Tree.

"We have seen first-hand the difference it makes to pupils if they have had a good nursery experience, with a smooth transition to starting in mainstream school.”

Parents are being reminded that free childcare is available at the nursery.

Vanessa Nutter, office business manager, said “We have seen a drop in nursery numbers since the reduction of local Surestart services.

"We just need to remind parents that excellent free childcare for three to four year-olds is right here on their doorstep.”

For more information on taking up a free nursery slot, parents and carers can ring the school office on 01623 458261 and speak to Mrs Nutter.