17/07/2026
It's the end of term, the start of the summer holidays and we've said goodbye to our preschool leavers as they head off on to their next chapters where they will continue to blossom.
Not just that. Goodbyes have been said to ALL of the children and families as they all head off on to their new settings and to all of my team who, over the last couple of months, have gone on to or are going on to new employment or retirement with my blessings, as I have made the decision to close Great and Small Kindergarten after 8 years.
Over those 8 years, myself and my team members have supported lots of children and their families, each in their own unique way. We've helped children learn, grow, achieve and develop in their own ways, holding their hands on the paths of their early years. It's not always been a smooth ride, a role like this never is, but I am proud. I'm proud of each and every child that we've helped and scaffolded to develop holistically, in their own way, as was always my priority. I'm proud of every member of staff that has grown professionally and personally in whatever way they chose or needed. I'm proud of the parents, carers and families who try their best for and love their little ones. I'm proud of the various other professionals that we have worked with, who despite being under the increasing pressures, continue to try to work together and do their upmost to help support children and families.
So why have I chosen to close? Well, I have and always will be someone who lives in integrity and authenticity. Sometimes this bites me back but better to be true I think. Over the last few years I have become increasingly unaligned with various aspects of society and education as a whole that just don't sit right with me. I don't think today is the day to get on my soapbox about how our government is encouraging an enabled society; the noticed increased in SEND & AN with little support but more so, little investigation as to the root of such issues; the seeming disrespect of PVI settings and belittling funding rates or financial support or backup; the obvious (imo) agenda to eventually make all nursery settings school based and thus controlled; the more so increased pressure for settings and schools to undertake and be accountable for issues that should not be in our remit; oh and more that I think countless others in this profession will understand, but not for now. I'm not being pushed for any reason, I'm jumping with my head held high.
No, today, is about saying thank you to all those parents and carers over the last 8 years for choosing Great and Small Kindergarten and more importantly, the kind hearted people working for me, to be a part of your child's early years. I think I speak for everyone in saying a big thank you.
So what's happening now? I know there's gossip on the Clayton grapevine anyway but I'm not in a position just yet to confirm but it is looking very hopeful that I will sell the property to remain in the caring industry 🙏🏼
Well, of course, I am around in case any parents, schools or settings need any help or anything. Plus Great and Small Forest School, my first setting and an approach I've always been passionate about for its incredible benefits continues to thrive in the woods. We'll hopefully be doing more offerings and training there. I'll also be directing my energy into my shop in Great Harwood called Fill & Flow, a fairly new venture but one I really enjoy. Plus there may well be something else in the pipeline but I'll see how that pans out first...
I've a believer in holistic development being the main priority in every person's life, young and older. Always learning and adapting to life's ebb and flow, thrive in times of success and develop in times of challenges. And always be true to yourself, live in integrity, be strong and do your best.
Have a wonderful summer and beyond everyone ❤️
