Located on Higher Furzeham Road, the school now welcomes children from nine months to two years within the new setting, before progressing into the school’s existing nursery from age two, creating a seamless early education pathway on one familiar site.
The newly developed spaces have been transformed into bright, nurturing environments, with sensory play areas, cosy reading corners and open spaces designed to encourage curiosity, creativity and social development.
The launch event saw families, staff and guests explore the setting, with children enjoying the new resources and activities.
The expansion reflects Thinking Schools Academy Trust’s commitment to “all-through” education, supporting children from their earliest years through every stage of their school journey, while providing consistency and reassurance for families.
The nursery was officially opened with a ribbon-cutting by Sonia Nickerson, who leads Little Thinkers nurseries across the trust, joined by Caroline Voaden MP and members of the local community.
Ms Nickerson said: “What has been created here is so much more than a nursery, it is a space where children feel safe, valued and inspired from the very start of their learning journey.
“Our all-through approach is about continuity, building strong relationships early and giving every child the best possible foundation for the future.”
Paul Adams, Headteacher at Furzeham Primary School, added: “We are incredibly proud to open Little Thinkers here at Furzeham. We know how important those early years are, and this provision allows us to support children and families earlier than ever before.
“It strengthens our school community and ensures children can settle, grow and thrive in a familiar, supportive environment as they move through their education.”
The development follows the trust identifying a need for more accessible childcare locally. By introducing provision from nine months, the school is helping meet demand while supporting families with high-quality, school-based care.
Jay Davenport, Regional Director, said: “This is about more than places, it’s about creating a joined-up experience from the very start. By investing in early years, we are strengthening foundations, supporting families and truly living our vision of Transforming Life Chances.”
Guests were invited to tour the new setting and see how the environment supports learning through play.