Monday the 2^nd of May marked the official opening of Stanley’s newly built childcare facility for Stepping Stones Ltd, however due to the rapid spread of Covid through the community Atty and Vicky unfortunately had to postpone. With great excitement, they are now happy to report that the Nursery will open today, Thursday 12^th.

With 7 years of childcare experience behind her, 23-year-old Atty Eccles bought Rugrats Nursery in 2012 and in 2016 welcomed business partner Vicky Chater. In 2018 with the change to a limited company, the women re-branded the business to reflect their wish to curate a place of growth and learning, and Stepping Stones started its new journey.

The dream to open a purpose built nursery began over 6 years ago, facilitated by an FIG Grant of £200k and an FIDC Loan of £200k. With funding secured, the ladies moved forwards with their plans and despite many hurdles, and Covid related issues, it is a joy to see their vision realised. It is encouraging to see these impressive and inspiring women leading the way in childcare development and striving to offer the highest quality service to the community.

Atty and Vicky hope to achieve their silver registration quickly upon moving into the new building, and then will swiftly proceed to work towards their gold registration. The pair have a wealth of qualifications and training under their belt, and in the future hope to offer in house training with the aim to ensure all members of their team are up to date and able to perform their duties to the highest standard.

Sian Davies, Business Development Officer says: “Congratulations to Atty and Vicky on the opening of their new childcare facility. The tri-partite agreement between Stepping Stones Ltd, FIG and FIDC is an excellent example of the commitment to and development of the childcare sector.  It has been a long journey but I am thrilled to see public money invested so well, and the future of our children in such good hands.”

Joanne Ford, Childcare Advisory Teacher said: “Stepping Stones have been very determined and enthusiastic about setting up a high quality childcare setting since they started on this process. It has not been an easy journey and they have faced many obstacles. What they have achieved though is outstanding. They have produced a wonderful, child centered building with hard working and well trained staff. The directors have encouraged all staff to engage in all training opportunities for the past few years and are committed to providing continuous professional development. They consistently take on advice regarding the raising of standards and they regularly ask parents for their opinions. It was wonderful to witness the opening of the setting and I look forward to seeing it being accessed by the children.”