A Wendover nursery has won a ‘Play Award’ in a ceremony hosted by Children & Young People (CYP) Now.
With over 600 applications the winners were announced at the CYP Now Awards which were hosted by Alan Dedicoat, the voice of Strictly Come Dancing.
READ MORE: Award-winning fish and chips celebrate 12 year anniversary
The Shepherd’s Hut Outdoor Day Nursery was recognised for the opportunities they offer for children to play freely and contribute to their social, emotional, and physical development.
The nursery opened its doors in 2018 and has outdoor spaces including a meadow, vegetable beds, mud and water, and hammocks.
There is also a wild area for exploration, a tree swing, a campfire circle, and a tool workshop.
If the weather doesn’t allow for play outside there is a yurt with a wood-burner which creates a cosy, home-from-home atmosphere.
After winning the awards the nursery has highlighted the importance of play for children's physical and mental health.
ALSO READ: Here are five restaurants you have to try once they reopen
A statement from the nursery said: “Our aim was to provide an environment that allows children to grow in all areas of their development; a place where they can play freely allowing their natural curiosity to flourish whilst at the same time make magical memories.
“We know that play is essential for learning about the world and for the physical and psychological benefits of having fun!”
“Play is important for providing for and protecting emotional wellbeing. Play fosters a sense of emotional security in even the most challenging situations.
“Never was this aspect of play more important than it is currently.”
CYP Now is the only dedicated magazine for professionals working with children, young people, and familiesand who celebrated their 15th awards ceremony virtually.
Derren Hayes, the editor of CYP Now, said: “Many of the 650 entries for the 2020 Awards were influenced by the pandemic.
“They illustrated how organisations, teams and individuals across large local authorities to grass roots community organisations have gone the extra mile to provide support.”
Watch the awards ceremony here.
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules here