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New outdoor nursery to open in community woodland near Loch Ness


By Val Sweeney

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A new outdoor nursery is set to open in woodland near Abriachan.
A new outdoor nursery is set to open in woodland near Abriachan.

A new early years outdoor nursery is set to open in community-owned woodland near Loch Ness.

Minister for Children and Young People Maree Todd will use loppers to chop a bespoke 'ribbon' of greenery at the Abriachan Forest classroom on Monday.

It is the first outdoor nursery directly supported by the Scottish Government and Thrive Outdoors which aims to improve the health, wellbeing and development of Scotland’s children.

It also marks the latest development for the community’s woodland which has been delivering outdoor learning for all ages for more than 22 years.

The outdoor nursery will mostly be set in two sheltered areas within the forest – the round house and the Peace Trail.

The children will benefit from learning through play, developing their social skills, an understanding of risk and an appreciation of nature.

The development comes as all three and four- year-old children will be eligible from August for 1140 hours of early years education supported by the Scottish Government.

High quality outdoor provision is an important element of the expansion programme.

Abriachan has been supported through the Care Inspectorate and Highland Council processes by Thrive Outdoors and Scottish and Southern Energy's community fund.

Although the outdoor nursery was recently registered by the Care Inspectorate for 32 places, it intends to start with smaller numbers.

Roni Smith, forest school manager, said: “We cannot wait and are delighted to finally open our play and place-based learning in Abriachan so thanks to all those who have supported the venture on behalf of the children and early years staff."

Leader of Highland Council and Aird and Loch Ness independent councillor Margaret Davidson will attend the opening ceremony along with children and parents from local families and Merkinch nursery.


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