Updates, Stories & Guides

This summer Forest School Leader Leanne spent four weeks in Madagascar, discovering incredible wildlife, supporting conservation projects and connecting with the local school and community. What she did She spotted a variety of species of Lemur, chameleons and other native species. She also planted trees and coffee plants as part of reforestation projects and removed

Outdoor learning and play is so important for early years development. At YMCA Nurseries, outdoor opportunities are a massive part of our children’s every day routine. Here are 4 important reasons why children need to play outside frequently. Healthy and strong little bodies When children play outdoors, they are more encouraged to move their body.

We’re proud to announce YMCA Andover Nursery has been graded at the Strong Standard in every single area assessed under Ofsted’s renewed Education Inspection Framework, a fantastic result for the whole Andover team. What the inspectors found Andover achieved Strong Standard in every category: Achievement; Behaviour, Attitudes and Establishing Routines; Children’s Welfare and Wellbeing; Curriculum

YMCA Eastleigh Nursery has been graded at the Expected Standard for Inclusion under Ofsted’s renewed early years inspection framework, a genuine achievement built on the hard work and dedication of the Early Years team. What it’s like to be a child at Eastleigh The report paints a warm picture of everyday life in the setting.

We’re excited to inform our families that Fairthorne Manor Nursery is getting a wonderful upgrade! Our rooms are being transformed to create even better spaces for children to learn, play and grow. A brand new room for our pre-schoolers (Badgers) From Monday 14th, our pre-schoolers will move into a beautifully refreshed Badgers room. Everything about

Since 1st September 2026, updates to the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) framework have come into effect across England. The revised framework introduces a number of important changes, with a particular focus on children’s safety, wellbeing and healthy development, including strengthened safer sleep requirements and new guidance around children’s screen use. At YMCA Fairthorne Group

Starting nursery is a big milestone for infants, and we understand that it is a big step for parents too. We’ve put together this useful guide to help you and your little one prepare for their next chapter. Practical Steps Attend settling in sessions Each YMCA Nursery offers free settling in sessions. Depending on the

Today, we were delighted to welcome our Early Years colleagues from across YMCA Fairthorne Group to YMCA Eastleigh Community Centre for our first organisation-wide INSET day. The event provided a valuable opportunity for staff from all of our nurseries and Early Years settings to come together, strengthen professional relationships, share best practice and participate in

Forest School is a unique pre-school experience. The definition provided by The FSA (Forest School Association) defines Forest School as “Forest School is a child-centred inspirational learning process, that offers opportunities for holistic growth through regular sessions. It is a long-term program that supports play, exploration and supported risk taking. It develops confidence and self-esteem

We’re delighted to share that YMCA Fairthorne Group has been recognised as one of The Sunday Times’ 126 Best Big Places to Work for 2026. As one of only 25 charities featured on this year’s list, this recognition celebrates the positive culture, shared values and commitment to people that sit at the heart of everything