MP Jo Platt visits Atherton nursery ahead of expansion

Leigh and Atherton MP Jo Platt toured Partou Storytimes Day Nursery and Pre-school on Leigh Road, one of Atherton’s most established nurseries, during her visit.

She met with commercial director, Chris Conchie, and nursery manager, Kim Thorpe.

Ms Platt said: “Storytimes is an excellent example of what high quality early years provision looks like.

“I was struck by the warmth of the setting, the professionalism of the staff, and the clear commitment to giving every child the best possible start.

“I can’t wait to go back and see their expansion plans come together.”

The nursery, which caters for children aged 0 to 5, is nearing completion of a major expansion that will create 28 additional places for under-twos.

The project is backed by UK Government funding.

Ms Thorpe said: “Everyone was excited to meet Jo and share some of the positive impacts the nursery is having in the local community.

“It was a particularly timely visit with our expansion work in its final stages.

“Jo was keen to maintain contact and return to Storytimes once the additional space is opened up.

“She will always be a welcome guest.”

Part of the Partou group, one of the country’s leading childcare providers, the nursery has a storybook-inspired theme and dedicated rooms for each age group, along with a large outdoor play area.

During the visit, Ms Platt discussed early years policy and workforce recruitment with Mr Conchie.

He said: “It was a privilege to meet with Jo, show her around, and talk about some of the challenges and opportunities facing nurseries following the national expansion of Government-funded places.

“As one of the country’s leading childcare providers, Partou wishes to work with policymakers to attract more recruits into the sector by further professionalising the role of early years educators.

“We also talked about many benefits of increased public funding for early years, and the need to make the process of accessing these monies as clear and simple as possible.

“Jo was receptive to these thoughts and has pledged to keep in touch with us, which is greatly appreciated.”