New nursery set to open at Appletongate, Newark in September

A new ‘authentic’ and ‘homely’ nursery is on track to open its doors next month.

Businesswoman Heather Jones bought the former nursery building on 73a Appletongate, Newark, this April with the intention to develop the site.

The mother of two wanted to create a safe space that, as a parent, she would have loved to take her children to — and that was when the idea for Little Loco’s Day Nursery came to life.

The name came from the building's proximity to the railway station.

Heather said: “I can’t wait to get everything right, I am creating a space that as a parent I would love to send my children to.

“Together with Kelly [the nursery manager], we can create something really nice for families and we will create something really good where parents can trust us and that we will be here for their children but also them.”

Kelly Ruston, who has several years of nursery and education experience, is the director and manager at the new venture.

Heather designed the whole interior of the building, using wood to create a homely and nurturing environment in which children feel physically and emotionally safe.

“I wanted children to use their imagination rather than having a lot of plastic toys. I want them to learn to develop their skills and it nurtures them through a calming environment,” the owner added.

Once the nursery opens, in September, Heather plans to invite outside guests once a month — such as police officers, beekeepers and firefighters — to teach the children about their roles.

Every week, there will be a different theme at the nursery, where children and teachers can get involved and explore their creativity.

The Little Loco’s Day Nursery will be open Monday to Friday from 8am to 6pm. However, it can open as early as 7.30am as a way of catering to the needs of parents.