'We have tried to create a family atmosphere' - Growing Places at Little Acorns celebrates 10 years
‘Families enjoy a place that they know is safe’
An outdoor learning site and community hub celebrated 10 years of being part of the Growing Places family this weekend.
Families headed to Growing Places at Little Acorns, in Wickham, to celebrate the milestone on Saturday, September 5. When the land was first acquired the land a decade ago, the site consisted of stables and an empty paddock of 2.5 acres. Over the years, the space has been completely transformed and it now boasts converted stables, office space and tailored outdoor areas designed to support children’s development.
Angela Mcgeady, site manager, said: “We have tried to create a real community and family atmosphere, and I think today proves that we have done that. For the children, it gets them closer to nature and teaches them about care, responsibility, respect and also resilience as they are out in all weather. It is good all round for their mental health and I think families enjoy a place that they know is safe. They can come here and enjoy themselves while their children play.”
A central feature of Little Acorns childcare is its resident family of animals including chickens, sheep, donkeys, and goats. Children share the space freely with the animals and learn vital life lessons in responsibility, kindness, and compassion through daily care, and interaction.
As well as celebrating 10 years of supporting families and children, the event also saw the opening of a reflective garden and outdoor eating space in memory of two “much-loved” colleagues Rachel and Bridie, who sadly lost their battles with cancer.
Angela said: “We wanted to create something in their memory, and people have come here to support that and celebrate their lives. They were very much part of the centre of Growing Places. Bridie embraced the families and supported younger members while Rachel was part of growing our pedagogy and the way we learn. They were both loved by lots of people.”
With ten years no reached, there are no plans for the community hub to rest on their laurels with Angela already think of plans as to how the site can be improved in the future.
She said: “We want to create a new wildlife pond area where children can learn about wildlife growing rather than us planting things. We just want to continue to grow and get more families involved.”
Growing Places, which launched in 2001, is a charitable childcare provider in Hampshire that was established to support the community and families.