Staff, parents and children at a Leyland Children's Centre are proud to have received a 'Learning Excellence Award', more usually given to schools. It is the first such centre in Lancashire to receive the award.
The award, given to the Wade Hall Children's Centre on Royal Avenue, was presented by County Councillor Anne Brown in recognition of the centre's imaginitive and successful work in supporting families.
Councillor Brown praised the centre's achievement
"I'm very proud that the centre has gained this award which is a tribute to the high standard of work done at Wade Hall -work that helps children enter school as confident learners."
Starting school is an important time and it can be unnerving for young children, so anything that gets them off to a good start can only reap benefits later."
Local parent Ruth Halstead who uses the centre said:
"Its such a good place -my children have got so much out of coming to the centre. My daughter sailed into nursery and is now enjoying full time school -and my youngest daughter is about to follow her.
I've made new friends and learned new skills at the centre. I am now chairman of the advisory board."
The day care facility is now operating and they have a small waiting list. The centre offers all sorts of activities and lots of support. It has a dedicated band of volunteers as well as the professionals.
There is Bounce and Rhyme and Breastfeeding groups as well as more targeted work.
The team at the Royal Avenue centre will be increased to take care of new centres at Wellfield Business and Enterprise College in the centre of Leyland and at Bamber Bridge.
County Councillor Fred Heyworth said:
"I am delighted to be on the advisory committee, this centre makes a real difference to the young families who use it."
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