Ferrymead Preschool and Nursery is a purpose-built early childhood centre of 300 square metres at 12E Settlers Crescent in Ferrymead, Christchurch, in a quiet crescent close to the Heathcote River. Children go on outings to search for crabs and explore the natural environment. The centre takes children from three months to five years, with the nursery caring for babies and toddlers up to two years and preschool teachers for children aged two to five. The indoor space is relaxed and well resourced, and there is a large outdoor natural play area. The website says the centre is owned and operated by Tamasine and Jill Glassford, a mother and daughter-in-law team from Mt Pleasant, and that it does not charge for public holidays.
Parents describe the staff as loving, nurturing and very caring, and say their children come home with new skills and words. One parent says their youngest daughter loves preschool so much that she does not want to leave at pick-up time. Another says both of their children went there and loved the facility, the staff and the warm environment. To enrol, call in for an enrolment pack or use the online enquiry form, and contact Tamasine on 03 384 8026 or 027 200 8924. The website says fees are available from the centre.