Acorn to Oak Nursery in Wharton opens with a flourish

Acorn to Oak Nursery, in Crook Lane, takes its first full intake of tots this September, but has been offering places, including for its holiday club, since its soft opening back in April.

On Friday, August 2, staff invited new and prospective families to a grand opening event, along with special guests including Mid Cheshire’s new MP, Andrew Cooper, and town mayor, Wayne Fletcher. 

The little'n's were treated to appearances by Peppa Pig and Bluey curtesy of Cheshire Mascots, as well as party game with Magicjay Jay, a music and movement session with Knutsford-based Popcat's Music Time, and sweet treats from a Fellici’s Ice-Cream Cart. 

After an official ribbon cutting ceremony by the town mayor at 4pm, families were given a tour of all the facilities, which includes spacious classrooms, colourful play areas, and the secure outdoor playground where little ones can explore and learn.

Acorn to Oak nursery manager, Nikki Wharton, said: “We had an amazing turnout for what was a truly special day.

Youngsters enjoyed all sorts games in the nursery's secure outdoor play area (Image: Acorn to Oak)

“We were delighted Mayor Fletcher was able to do our official opening, and so pleased our new MP, Andrew Cooper, along with so many town councillors, were able to come too. 

“But our biggest thank you has to go out to all our children and their families who have picked us to be early educators for their precious children.

“Our team is dedicated to fostering each child's social, emotional, and cognitive development through personalised attention and engaging activities.

Peppa and Bluey with Mid Cheshire MP, Andrew Cooper (left) and Cheshire West and Winsford town councillor, Nathan Pardoe (Image: Acorn to Oak)

“We believe in fostering a sense of wonder and curiosity in every child, laying the foundation for a lifetime of learning.

“We’re delighted they’ve chosen to become part of our Acorn to Oak family.”

Craig Dentith, whose two-year-old daughter Emelia was one of the nursery’s first sign-ups, said: “We were a bit apprehensive about Emelia starting nursery as she can get very nervous when she’s away from us.

(L to R): Proud mum, Sarah Simmons, with daughter Emelia Dentith, and dad Craig Dentith (Image: Newsquest)

“There was no need at all as the staff here have been wonderful. They’ve really gone above and beyond to put her at her ease.

“She’s got a big thing about seagulls right now, and when we told the staff, they ordered some toy ones to help her feel at home.

“Her mum and I thought it was very sweet, and were very impressed.”

Samantha Stockton, whose daughter Ayda attends the nursery, said: “It’s such an amazing place with wonderful facilities. She loves it.

“She’s only been coming for three weeks and it’s hard to believe just how much she’s come on.

“The difference in her is incredible.”