New baby room ‘Squirrels’ opens as Nursery Manager Leanne Murrey joins, strengthening inclusive Early Years provision for local families.
YMCA Fairthorne Group is marking an exciting new chapter at Fairthorne Manor Nursery with the launch of its new baby room, Squirrels, alongside the appointment of new Nursery Manager, Leanne Murrey.
Opening on 11th May, the purpose-built baby room has been carefully designed to support children from as young as four months, creating a calm, nurturing, and inclusive space where every child can take their first steps in their early years journey.
Leanne, who has recently joined the team, brings a wealth of early years experience and a clear passion for supporting children, families, and practitioners to thrive.
“Hi, my name’s Leanne, and I’ve just started as the new Nursery Manager at the brilliant Fairthorne Manor Nursery,” she said.
“I’ve worked in early years for many years, and I’m so excited to grow with the nursery and be part of what comes next.”
A growing nursery for a growing community
The opening of Squirrels represents more than just a new space—it reflects the need for nurseries to grow and adapt alongside their communities.
With demand for early years places continuing to rise, particularly for younger children and those needing additional support, YMCA Fairthorne Group has expanded its provision to ensure more families can access high-quality, inclusive childcare.
“Our new under-2s space has created more places right across the nursery,” Leanne explained.
“It’s an incredibly exciting time, and we’re so proud to be opening this new environment for our youngest children.”
Following the expansion, Fairthorne Manor Nursery will now offer 160 places for children aged 4 months to 5 years, helping meet increasing local demand across Botley and surrounding areas.
Inclusion at the heart of early years
At the centre of this growth is a clear commitment to inclusion.
As more children are identified as needing additional support, the role of nurseries in providing adaptable, responsive environments has never been more important. At Fairthorne Manor, this is embedded through YMCA Fairthorne Group’s Inclusive Classroom Profile, ensuring every child is supported as an individual from the very beginning.
From sensory-aware spaces to tailored interactions and close partnership working with families and professionals, the approach ensures that all children—regardless of need or background—feel valued and able to thrive.
A unique environment for learning and exploration
Set within 95 acres of woodland, riverside, and open space, Fairthorne Manor Nursery offers a truly distinctive early years environment.
“All you need to do is visit the nursery to see how special it is,” said Leanne.
“Our children are surrounded by woodland, fields, rivers, and space to explore. Being outdoors isn’t something we do occasionally—it’s part of everyday learning, in every season.”
Children are encouraged to follow their curiosity, learn through real experiences, and build confidence in a natural setting—an approach further enhanced by the nursery’s Forest School offer.
“Sometimes the little ones even hop on the nursery bus for their adventures,” Leanne added.
A passionate team making a difference
For Leanne, what makes the nursery truly special is the team behind it.
“Passion for little lives is what makes someone a great fit here,” she said.
“Whether you’re just starting your journey in early years or looking to develop your career, we want people who genuinely care about supporting children to grow and succeed.”
As a charity-run nursery, every place also contributes to YMCA Fairthorne Group’s wider work across the community—supporting children, young people, and families beyond the nursery itself.
Looking ahead to the grand opening
The grand opening on 11 May will bring together families, community members, and local representatives to celebrate the launch of Squirrels.
The day will include a morning ribbon-cutting ceremony, followed by a stay-and-play session from 1.30pm–3.30pm, where families can explore the new space, meet the team, and experience the environment first-hand.
“It’s been a real labour of love,” said Leanne.
“We can’t wait to welcome families in and show them where their child’s early years journey could begin.”
Preparing children for life
School readiness remains a core focus at Fairthorne Manor Nursery, woven into everyday experiences rather than treated as a standalone milestone.
“School readiness is so important because it prepares children for life,” Leanne explained.
“It’s about building confidence, independence, communication, and curiosity—giving children the foundations they need not just for school, but for everything that comes next.”
