Play-a-Way Nursery & Preschool in Jenkins Dale, Chatham reopens in former Kidstreet Nursery site

A brand-new nursery and pre-school for up to 110 children has opened in the space of a former early years provider.

Play-a-Way Nursery and Preschool welcomed its first children to the unit in Jenkins Dale, Chatham at the start of February.

It is the fourth branch to open under the brand, headed by director Subra Ahilan, who switched careers in engineering and banking to childcare in 2018.

The early years education provider looks after children from aged three months to five years, and operates 51 weeks out of the year.

As part of its offering, the nursery provides 15- and 30- hour government-funded places for eligible children in the community.

The site boasts a well-equipped, secure outdoor play area and an indoor soft play facility.

Nursery manager Zoe Gedling, who was previously employed at the Play-a-Way day care centre in Gillingham said: “We are dedicated to delivering exceptional childcare and learning experiences for young learners.

“Children thrive with the support of inspiring early years staff and children grow in confidence and develop new skills while engaging in lots of play.”

The nursery manager added that she is “passionate” about allowing children to develop independence.

The team is made up of first aid trained staff who believe in a “friendly” approach towards both children and parents.

Previously the site had been home to The Sunflower Nursery which closed suddenly and left dozens of families in the lurch.

It was later sold at auction.

About 48 families and seven members of staff were left with a frantic search for new childcare and jobs when the owner, Harps Nurseries, gave just a few days’ notice of the decision in January 2023.

It had formerly been known as Kidstreet Nursery which had operated as a day nursery for 18 years and had originally been used as a warehouse.

Moving forward, the new owners hope to bring “high-quality” early years education to families in Medway.