A wave of anger has swept through the communities of Street and Glastonbury following the announcement that Strode College Day Nursery will close this summer. After 22 years of serving local families, the nursery, which cares for children aged two to four, is set to shut its doors despite widespread opposition.
Run by University Centre Somerset (UCS), which oversees colleges in Strode, Bridgwater, Cannington, and Taunton, the nursery’s closure stems from financial pressures. UCS cites soaring operational costs—including staff wages, utilities, and essential resources—outpacing the funding received for government-funded childcare hours, making continued operation unsustainable.
Currently catering to 15 children, UCS staff have pledged to support affected families through this transition ahead of the planned closure date on July 10. A spokesperson explained: “We fully understand the concerns surrounding this decision and want to reassure parents that the highest standards of care will continue until we close. Despite exhaustive efforts to explore alternatives, the financial gap remains too great to overcome.”
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Local parents have expressed frustration and fear about the impact on childcare availability. One mother, Dani Elle, voiced her concerns on social media, emphasizing the long waiting lists for nurseries in the area and the added challenge another closure presents for families seeking early education settings.
An online petition started by Daisy Fahy has gained over 1,300 signatures, highlighting the nursery’s vital role in the community. Fahy stresses that early childhood education is essential, with 90% of brain development occurring before age five, making the loss of such a facility deeply impactful.
The community continues to appeal to UCS to reconsider, emphasizing the nursery’s importance in providing crucial educational and developmental support for young children. As July 10 approaches, families remain hopeful for a solution that can keep this valued resource open.