Little Explorers: Children kicked out of Gosport pre-school celebrate graduation with ex-staff
Businesses and former pre-school staff worked together to make the graduation party happen.
A group of children who were unexpectedly booted out of their pre-school, just months before starting primary school, have celebrated their graduation.
In April this year, families were given 48 hours notice that their child’s place at Little Explorers Pre-School and Nursery in Gosport would be terminated, following an Ofsted inspection that found safeguarding failures, health and safety concerns, and special educational needs not being met.
The nursery’s response was to get rid of every child who is moving up to start school in September - leaving parents scrambling to find new pre-school places.
For the children themselves, the other thing they were set to miss out on was a proper graduation party, celebrating their advancement to primary school. But thanks to former Little Explorers staff member Lizzie Featherstone, other ex-employees and generous donors, a party was still able to go ahead over the weekend.
On Sunday, June 7, a special graduation celebration was held for the youngsters. Children received graduation medals, certificates, books, and party bags filled with treats and stickers. The celebration also featured ice creams, a bouncy castle, entertainment, a magician, and a range of activities that kept smiles on faces throughout the day.
The event was supported by Dancing Wolf Entertainment, Pretty Little Party, BRWCA, Little Guest Event Hire, Buffet on a Budget, Snowden Photography, Lovely Lens Photo Booth, and Krissie custom design, all of whom helped create a memorable day for the children and their families. Money to host the celebrtation was also donated via a GoFundMe page, which reached a total of £1,170 raised.
Lizzie said: “The joy it brought to everyone involved was truly appreciated. We are incredibly grateful for all the support we received from the community.
“For the children and their families, the graduation celebration was more than just a party - it was a reminder of the strength of community spirit and a day that will be remembered for many years to come.”
In a touching moment, parents also surprised Lizzie and the former staff team with gifts and a voucher for a meal out as a thank you for their hard work, dedication, and commitment to ensuring the children received the send-off they deserved.