The first half of the Autumn term has gone faster than any other we can remember. We’ve explored and discovered, experimented and observed in the awe and wonder of texture and colour as we immersed ourselves in all things Autumnal.
Our visit to the Harvest service was one of the highlights, with the church decorated magnificently with flowers, fruits, berries and vegetables, creating the epitome of rural England. We sang songs, listened to stories and gave donations to the deserving Coffee Tots charity. We are very fortunate to live in a community that comes together for the Harvest service along with other local groups. We were warmly welcomed by Noah’s Story Box and Gill and her team of volunteers who provided the perfect opportunity to celebrate and share Harvest together.
As a charity ourselves still navigating our way back from the impact of Covid, we are continually grateful to the church centre for the opportunity to rent their light and spacious facility. We also remain hugely thankful and indebted to our own committee members, all volunteers, who give their time, support and enthusiasm generously. The committee and staff continue to look forward, ensuring Stepping Stones remains robust and sustainable whilst operating within the continual challenges within the Early Years Sector and the impact that underfunding is having, manifested in the increasing number of nurseries closing down due to increased costs and lack of funding.
Incredibly, Stepping Stones’ next milestone will be our 60th birthday! This will not only be a wonderful opportunity to celebrate our back to back Outstanding Ofsted ratings, but more importantly, celebrating our thriving community nursery. A not for profit early years education to children aged 2 to 4 years and offering additional support to those in financial hardship.
With Autumn term 2 and the festive period rapidly approaching, the children will be busy making Christmas cards and writing lists, painting decorations for the trees, rehearsing their nativity play and singing lots of Christmas songs. The parent committee will be busy organising our Christmas fundraiser, a time to celebrate together with lots of homemade cakes whilst raising funds to buy and replace new toys, books and craft materials. Everyone is very welcome.
