Leigh and Atherton MP Jo Platt has visited Partou Storytimes Day Nursery and Pre-school in her constituency where she toured the setting, met the team and talked to the children about their learning journey.
She was welcomed by Kim Thorpe, Partou Storytimes Nursery Manager, and Chris Conchie, Partou Commercial Director, who jointly briefed her on the nursery’s imminent expansion and discussed a series of policy issues relevant to the early years sector.
Located on Leigh Road, Partou Storytimes is one of Atherton’s most established nurseries, providing a caring and inspirational learning environment for children aged 0-5 years.
Its name is inspired by the fun storybook theme that runs throughout the setting which includes dedicated rooms for each age group filled with exciting toys and learning resources, and a large outdoor area which offers play opportunities all year round.
The nursery is about to complete an impressive expansion project, backed by UK Government funding, which will create 28 additional places for children under two.
Jo Platt MP said: “Storytimes is an excellent example of what high quality early years provision looks like.
“I was struck by the warmth of the setting, the professionalism of the staff, and the clear commitment to giving every child the best possible start.
“I can’t wait to go back and see their expansion plans come together.”
Kim Thorpe, Partou Storytimes Nursery Manager, said: “Everyone was excited to meet Jo and share some of the positive impacts the nursery is having in the local community.
“It was a particularly timely visit with our expansion work in its final stages.
“Jo was keen to maintain contact and return to Storytimes once the additional space is opened up.
“She will always be a welcome guest.”
Chris Conchie, Partou Commercial Director, said: “It was a privilege to meet with Jo, show her around, and talk about some of the challenges and opportunities facing nurseries following the national expansion of Government-funded places.
“As one of the country’s leading childcare providers, Partou wishes to work with policymakers to attract more recruits into the sector by further professionalising the role of early years educators.
“We also talked about many benefits of increased public funding for early years, and the need to make the process of accessing these monies as clear and simple as possible.
“Jo was receptive to these thoughts and has pledged to keep in touch with us, which is greatly appreciated.”
