Granby Nurseries has been open now for over 25 years, and the past 11 weeks have been like no other we have ever known. On 23rd March 2020 Prime Minister Boris Johnson announced that most schools and early years settings in the UK would close.
Some schools and early years settings would stay open to children whose parents are key workers like nurses, delivery drivers and teachers.
All three Granby’s stayed open initially to provide care for limited children, whilst other children stayed safe at home with their parents.
On March 26th, the Prime minister- Boris Johnson, Princes George and Louis and Princess Charlotte lead our nation in our first clap for the NHS and keyworkers. At 8 o’clock on Thursday nights people stand outside their front doors and clap to say thank you to those that are helping to keep us safe.
Granby Wickersley and Granby Carlton unfortunately closed from 6th April 2020.
Granby Parkgate remained open throughout the whole lockdown period, supporting families, and creating a safe environment for children.
Granby Wickersley used their Facebook page to communicate with families, sending videos and activities for children to enjoy.
Granby Carlton had created LIVE@11 from 23rd March, doing a fun live session on their Facebook page, for families to watch, Jacqui carried this on throughout lockdown, reading stories from her campervan for families to enjoy, activities and story videos from staff were also posted weekly.
Granby Wickersley and Carlton maintained contact throughout offering families support and advice.
On 11th May Boris Johnson announced that he intended schools and early years settings to reopen from 1st June 2020 – the hard work began. All Granby Directors and Managers worked hard for the next few weeks, writing new documents in time for opening, they communicated and reassured families about opening and measures put in place.
We are day four into opening and welcoming back our families, all staff have been amazing and have worked hard to settle children back in, the children have been amazing, and come back as if they were here yesterday. Granby Nurseries are very proud of what we and our families have achieved and look forward to welcoming more and new families back in the future.