Growing Wild Outdoor Nursery

To secure the funding needed to set up their first nursery, they applied for and received £20,000 in Start Up Loans from GC Business Finance, split evenly between them in 2018. This allowed the pair to purchase vital resources for the nursery, including initial rent, children’s learning materials, upcycled furniture, outdoor toilets and staff equipment.

The nursery quickly became a success, showing families across the local community the value of outdoor learning. It offers a safe environment where children can play and learn in nature every day. This approach gives children the space to learn naturally, supporting vital skills such as problem solving, decision-making, self-esteem and resilience.

After four years of growth, the pair opened a second nursery in Sheffield, supported by a further £10,000 in Start Up Loans to help cover the costs of additional resources and land.

Janet and Lindsey have received outstanding feedback from families and the wider community. Building on this success, they established a community interest company to provide children, especially those with SEND, with an alternative type of education provision. Their business has also created 30 new jobs in the local community.