A THURROCK pre-school and nursery which places itself right in the heart of its local community has been celebrating its recent success in the Thurrock Education awards.

Little Chestnuts in Corringham opened in 2018  and in October last year underwent its first Ofsted inspection. It was graded 'outstanding' in all areas (see report) with the inspector stating that its SEN (special educational needs) provision is 'exceptional'.

Its continuing success was mirrored with the award in Thurrock Council's awards in the category 'Excellence in Early Years'.

A driving force behind Little Chestnuts is Jodie Lucas who told Nub News: "We are all so proud of what we have achieved over the last fouryears but this school year we are particularly delighted as we have been recognised for the fantastic work that we do on a daily basis."

But it's not just educational achievement that motivates Jodie, a qualified primary school teacher, she puts immense importance on engaging with the local community.

She adds: "We go above and beyond on a daily basis. My staff are highly qualified, experienced and work incredibly hard, making a real difference to local families and their children. 

Little Chestnuts' success at the Thurrock Education Awards reported by Nub News earlier this month.

"During the Covid pandemic we delivered food parcels to people in need and have taken our nursery children to the local charity shop, donating unwanted toys to teach the children about giving.

"We like to give our nursery children wonderful experiences on a daily basis which enhances their education beyond the four walls of the nursery building. A good example of this are litter picking in Corringham park which teaches them about valuing their local community. We also visit the fruit stall to buy healthy snacks as well as the library for rhyme time and other local shops in the town centre.

"This gives the children a real sense of belonging and also the opportunity to value local businesses around them. 

"We have been so lucky to be able to have the nursery at the Karis May Darling Centre. The location is fantastic as children get to visit the park and develop their gross motor skills on a regular basis. The centre owners (John and Kerri Darling) have been incredibly supportive - which has enabled us to offer a fantastic provision to our local community."

You can check out Little Chestnuts at its website via this link.