After receiving a prestigious ‘Green Flag’ award in 2020 as part of the international Eco-Schools scheme, children and practitioners from Lavenders Day Nursery in Bedford were delighted to learn they had gained the esteemed accreditation once more, with a distinction.
The accolade, which is the highest achievement in the programme, has been awarded to the Ofsted-rated ‘Outstanding’ setting on Bushmead Avenue, following a sustained environmental project which involves children of all ages, from babies using recycled shredder paper for sensory activities, to older children creating bug hotels for insect observations and growing vegetables which are then used in meals by Nursery Chefs.
Activities, which also include crafting with natural and recycled materials, are designed to promote the development of personal, social and emotional life skills as well as introducing the children to basic maths, science and environmental messages.
Following their submission, Lavenders were commended by assessors who praised their passionate eco-committee, consisting of children who drive forward ideas for change, as well as colleagues Karolina Rajkowska, Angie O’Boyle, Rachel Strangwick and Heather Bull.
Delighted Lavenders Quality Manager, Oli Baucutt, said the award was the result of years of continuous dedication by staff and children, working together in the programme, which involves millions of children across 70 countries.
“We aim to give children the best possible future here at Lavenders and looking after the environment plays a huge part in that. The respect and care the children have for the nature around them is inspiring to see and bodes well for their adult lives”, he explained.
We prioritise the importance of outdoor play at Cedars Day Nursery in Leighton Buzzard. All children at our Ofsted-rated ‘Outstanding’ nursery have access to our large, natural garden area on a daily basis as we recognise the impact that being outdoors has on a child’s social, emotional and physical development. The children enjoy planting vegetables and tasting their produce, served by our dedicated Nursery Chef.
Cedars Day Nursery, Mentmore Rd, Leighton Buzzard LU7 2PA
Tel: 01525 850200
Email: cedars.nursery@childbase.com
