New home for child care at the University of York
Posted on 17 November 2004
For the University’s child care facility – York Campus Nursery -- is among the most cosmopolitan in the region.
The nursery, which can cater for up to 30 children aged two to five as well as nine babies aged three months up to two years old, is settling into refurbished accommodation next to the Health Centre on the Heslington campus.
Established 15 years ago, principally for the children of students and staff, the nursery also offers places for children from outside the University. Its baby unit opened in 1994.
Supervisor Ruth Mellard, who has run the nursery since it opened, said: "We have had children from most parts of the world over the years and we cater for a lot of different cultures.
"We celebrate a lot of different festivals as well as the Christian ones. It's nice for all the children to have the chance to experience different cultures."
We have had children from most parts of the world over the years and we cater for a lot of different cultures
Ruth Mellard
All 14 members of staff at the nursery have recognised child care qualifications and most have been with the unit from the outset.
Mrs Mellard added: "The continuity of staff has created stability and a good atmosphere for the children."
The nursery, which is open 48 weeks a year, is registered by Ofsted whose inspectors gave the unit a top rating after their last inspection in March this year. Its Ofsted-registered status means that some parents may be eligible for a City of York Council nursery education grant of up to £416 per term. Though there is a waiting list for the baby unit, there are vacancies for older children.
The building includes an improved layout for the baby unit, extra storage space and a staff room. An all-weather surface is also being installed on the nursery’s enlarged outdoor play space where a grassed area will also be available in the spring.
Fees for the nursery are £11.75 per session for staff, £11 per session for postgraduate and undergraduate students and £13.50 per session for the public. Charges for the baby unit are £13.25 per session for staff; £12 per session for students and £14.60 per session for the public.
Undergraduate students can apply to the Students Union for a direct subsidy of fees while postgraduates can apply to the Graduate Students Assocation.
Notes to editors:
- Details of the latest Ofsted report on the York Campus Nursery can be found at www.ofsted.gov.uk/reports/index