Children at Bestwood Childcare Centre in Nottingham were captivated by outdoor learning this summer, taking part in a fascinating ladybird life-cycle project, watching caterpillars turn into butterflies and getting their hands dirty as part of an exciting project.

The children observed and cared for ladybird larvae, witnessing the emergence of adult ladybirds that they released outside, where they continue to thrive and support local wildlife.

The children also learned about a butterfly's life cycle, seeing the caterpillars transform into chrysalises and then emerge as butterflies, as well as planting and nurturing a variety of fruits and vegetables. 

The produce grown was used for healthy snacks for the children, giving them the opportunity to taste food they have helped grow themselves.

ACE Nursery School in Cambridge is incredibly proud to mark its 60th anniversary, having first opened its doors in 1966.

With this milestone in mind, the setting’s annual Teddy Bears’ Picnic, held in July at Wandlebury Country Park, “passed with more than a touch of pizzazz and over 200 guests in attendance”.

There was live music from a well-known local band Shake, Rattle and Roll and a performance from an ex-ACE child, now 11 years old, with their band The Feather Heads.

Stalls included face-painting, games, a scavenger hunt, T-shirt decorating and much more. The glorious summer afternoon closed with nostalgic speeches and a delicious lemon sponge baked and decorated by in-house cook Sharon.

Deputy headteacher Diana Church said: “At ACE we feel very lucky to have such a wonderful team, both past and present, who have made and continue to make ACE the special place it is.

“We look optimistically to the future, reinforcing the nursery’s commitment to continuing its legacy of high-quality early years education for another 60 years. Happy birthday ACE, hip hip hooray!

In July, the children and educators from Yarnton Way Nursery in Erith enjoyed their first local trip to Southmere Lake in Thamesmead.

The children loved exploring somewhere new and were excited to feed the ponies and ducks. During a nature walk, they enjoyed discovering the different sights, sounds and wildlife around the lake. Throughout the trip, they chatted with educators and each other, showing great curiosity about the world around them.

It wasn't just the children who benefited from the trip. Spending time outdoors gave the educators a chance to connect with the children in a different setting and experience their excitement firsthand.

Nursery manager Amber Bridle said: “The trip was a huge success, and both the children and staff thoroughly enjoyed every moment. [...] we are already looking forward to planning our next local adventure and creating even more opportunities to explore our community, learn new things, enjoy the outdoors and support everyone's wellbeing together.”

Happy Days Nursery and Pre-school in Verwood, Dorset, has been awarded ‘strong standard’ gradings in all areas in its recent Ofsted inspection. The setting is also proud to confirm that its safeguarding practices were judged as ‘met’, reflecting the priority it places on the safety and wellbeing of every child.

Inspectors noted that the children “develop high levels of independence and confidence” and are “well prepared for their next stage of learning”.

The inspection team praised the setting’s warm and inclusive atmosphere, observing first-hand how the children settle in quickly and form deep, trusting relationships with the team.

By achieving ‘strong standard’ across the board, Happy Days Verwood has proven to be a secure, effective and high-quality environment for early years education.

In August, the youngest children at Sunshine Corner in Aylesham, Kent, along with their friend Tim the Tiger teddy, had the best day at local historic park Kearsney Abbey. Armed with suncream, hats and plenty of water, the setting were ready to set off on what was an extremely hot day!

At the train station, the babies watched with wide eyes as the train pulled into the platform. Lead early years educator Caitlan Nash said: “It was lovely watching the wonder on their little faces! For some of the babies this was their first time travelling via train, which made our day extra special!”

At Kearsney Abbey, the group took in the beautiful sights, sounds and smells, discussing what wildlife and habitats they might find. The babies watched as the swans and ducks glided effortlessly through the water and enjoyed singing ‘Five little ducks’ and ‘Five little speckled frogs’.

After a “yummy picnic lunch”, the babies had a well-deserved nap and then finished the day off with a nice cold ice pole.

In July, Foxcubs Nursery in Luton embarked on an exciting learning journey all about animals, exploring those that live in hot and cold climates, on land and at sea, and creatures both big and small.

As part of their studies, the children voted to have an animal farm visit the setting. The children were delighted to welcome a horse, goats, rabbits, chickens and guinea pigs.

The event, which was partly funded through parent donations and early years pupil premium income, provided a wonderful opportunity for the children, families and educators to feed, hold and stroke the animals.

Nursery manager Shaheena Khatun said: “It was a lovely day thoroughly enjoyed by parents, children and staff.”