AN Aberystwyth nursery is celebrating after scooping a top national award.

Gogerddan Childcare, based near IBERS, Penrhyncoch, received a certificate at an Estyn awards evening in Cardiff for the excellent outdoor learning facilities found during an inspection.

Managing director Emma Healy said: “We are all feeling very proud.”

Gogerddan Childcare is registered to take up to 49 children at any one time, between the ages of six weeks and four years.

The provision for three-year-olds cares for up to 16 children.

The inspection report stated: “The setting implements and monitors the plans for improvement purposefully against realistic actions and timescales.

“This is an outstanding feature as it includes the use of funding sources from a variety of support organisations to develop innovative, successful and community based provision.

“Woodland and natural life surround the nursery and, a few years ago, the setting was not making the most of this wonderful environment to benefit the children.

“To extend her own knowledge and understanding, the proprietor secured a grant to go and see outdoor learning at its very best on a shadow and exchange trip to Finland.

“During the visit, she observed children who were resilient, independent and taking risks as part of their play.

“Seeing good quality outdoor learning in all weathers was inspiring and led to a determination to use the natural environment on the setting’s doorstep to its full potential.”

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