Press Releases

University officially opens new campus nursery – University of Reading

Release Date : 21 December 2009

The University of Reading is delighted to announce its new nursery has officially opened. Deputy Vice-Chancellor Professor Tony Downes cut the ribbon at a recent ‘Winter Wonderland' opening ceremony.

The new nursery houses the latest resources in child development, including large, bright visual play rooms and rest areas, a covered outdoor play area and a parent meeting lounge. A large well-equipped outdoor space will allow children to move freely and encourage their development within a safe and secure environment

Maria Reed, University of Reading Nursery Manager said: "Campus nurseries are a vital service for both University staff and students. Given the current economic climate and the sad news that many universities are closing their nurseries, I am delighted that the University, in partnership with the Students' Union, has provided the support to build our new state-of-the-art facility.

"As well as delivering an excellent service to staff and students, the nursery is a contemporary and up with the times facility, that incorporates all the latest findings and ideas in child development. It will improve access to higher education by providing opportunities for students with children to go to university, giving them an excellent platform to go on and build a successful career."

The fantastic facility has been caring for children since the beginning of October, making the lives of University of Reading staff and students easier.

Claire Bowler works at the University and uses the new nursery. She commented: "It's very convenient to have such a facility in the university grounds. It's a lovely new building which has been purpose built and includes everything you'd hope to find at a nursery."

The new nursery is able to care for nearly 100 youngsters at any one time, double the amount the old nursery could care for. The new facility also offers extended opening times, with care available 49 weeks of the year as opposed to the 40 weeks previously.

RUSU Vice-President of Student Rights & Diversity Megan Pennyfather said: "The Students' Union is extremely excited about the new nursery. Child care facilities are a vital campus resource, particularly for student parents, and having a larger nursery will benefit those balancing a degree with child care.

"A campus nursery open nearly all the year round is a huge boost for the University of Reading," Megan Pennyfather continued. "Even more leading academics and researchers would come to Reading  knowing their children could be cared for in a fantastic facility so close-by, whatever the time of year."

Ends

For all University of Reading media enquiries please contact James Barr, Press Officer tel 0118 378 7115 or email j.w.barr@reading.ac.uk

Notes for Editors:

The new nursery is part of the University's Whiteknights Development Plan 2008-18, designed to provide facilities appropriate to the university's world-class standing and international reputation. It was the subject of a public consultation in autumn 2007.