Leyland nursery supports charity with flying colours

Children and team members at Partou Stonehouse Nursery and Pre-school in Leyland have held a Colour Run to raise money for UNICEF.

“The children developed a strong interest in learning about Holi, the cultural festival of colour, which took place earlier in the month,” Rebecca Bradbury, the nursery’s Senior Deputy Manager said. “Building on this, we organised the run as a meaningful experience that combined something the children enjoy with an opportunity to support a great charity.”

She described the event as “a fantastic experience” for everyone involved.

“We created a fun and energetic atmosphere where the children ran, explored colourful powders and celebrated being active together, while raising money for an excellent cause,” Rebecca continued. “The children absolutely loved taking part.  It was wonderful to see the excitement, activities like this help them to develop a positive attitude towards physical activity and teamwork.”

Sharon Berry, Partou Stonehouse Nursery Manager, explained that the setting was also able to link the event to the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS), the statutory framework in England that sets standards for the learning, development and care of children.   

She said: “The Colour Run supported several areas of the framework – including physical development through running, balancing and coordination, and also personal, social and emotional development – as the children encouraged each other and celebrated their achievements together.

“They created a sense of community, empathy and understanding of helping others through charitable fundraising, and deepened their awareness of different cultures, traditions and celebrations. The children discussed their ideas, shared their understanding of Holi – which is a vibrant and inclusive celebration of diversity – and engaged in conversation about the run and its purpose.”

Sharon added: “We have raised £180 so far.”

Last year, Partou – which operates more than 100 settings in the UK – announced an official partnership with UNICEF, the United Nations agency which works to protect the rights of children, provide humanitarian aid and ensure that every child can reach their full potential.

Partou is supporting a portfolio of targeted UNICEF early learning initiatives, ensuring more children have the right to the best possible start in life through support for their health, learning and development.

Samantha Rhodes, Partou Managing Director, said: “The Colour Run was clearly a memorable day with fun and learning at its heart.

“Our partnership with UNICEF is vitally important to us.  Well done to the children and team at Partou Stonehouse for making a significant financial contribution to this work.”