YMCA Nursery Graduation Day Celebrates Young Achievers and New Beginnings
This Thursday saw 17 pre-school children celebrate their graduation from our Nursery at the YMCA Community & Activity Village in Newark. The event, held in our Dance Studio, was a memorable milestone for the children and families, marking the end of a pre-school journey and the beginning of their next adventure to primary school in September.
Each child received a graduation certificate to mark their achievements and growth at the nursery. Steffen Benbow, Executive Director at YMCA Newark and Sherwood was pleased to present the certificates and greeted each graduate as they walked down the red carpet. The children loved expressing their own individuality choosing the colour of their graduation outfits to fit with the celebration’s ‘rainbow’ theme.
After the presentation, there were some emotional grown-ups, but everyone enjoyed party food and refreshments, mingling with friends and family. The event captured the sense of community and support that defines our YMCA Nursery.
Catherine Shotton, Assistant Operations Manager – Early Years and Childcare, shared her thoughts on the special day: “It has been truly wonderful to see these children grow in confidence and develop their unique personalities during their time with us at the YMCA Nursery. We are incredibly proud of each one of them and excited to hear about their next big adventure, though it’s always bittersweet to say goodbye.”
![Cath Shotton is sat alongside a child graduating Nursery](https://ymcanewarksherwood.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/86_Nursery-Graduation_Cath-George_18-July-24-380x334.jpg)
George, age four, shared his favourite activities at the nursery. Since joining in January 2023, George has particularly enjoyed drawing. When asked about his time at the YMCA Nursery, George said, “I think the best thing about my nursery is drawing and playing with my friends. I really love it here.”
As we celebrate the achievements of our graduates, our YMCA Nursery has places available for pre-school children starting in September. Dedicated to providing a well-rounded early education experience, focusing on key elements such as early literacy, numeracy, emotional development, and social skills. Being based at the YMCA Village offers children attending the nursery numerous enrichment opportunities. They can benefit from on-site facilities such as the gym, where they can participate in age-appropriate fitness activities, the dance studio, cycle facilities, and a climbing centre.
Parents interested in learning more about the YMCA Nursery or booking a tour can call 01636 233 125 for further information, or go online to: https://ymcanewarksherwood.org/ymca-nursery