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Inspiring community nursery becomes College academy partner
Posted: 05/06/2025
A unique community nursery has become the latest in Barnsley College’s growing range of academy partnerships.
The Little Explorers Community Nursery academy, based in the College’s Childcare department, will see the nursery go from inspiring young children to inspiring the next generation of practitioners. The academy room itself resembles a fully equipped nursery environment, seamlessly attached to a branded classroom.
The partnership is the latest of more than 20 academies at the College, which span areas from logistics and business to accounting, construction and digital industries. These employer-led partnerships provide businesses with opportunities to develop the curriculum with the skills most needed for the future – while giving students unique experiences such as placements, visits and workshops that fully prepare them for the world of work.
Barnsley College Deputy Chief Executive Gavin Batty said: “This marks another significant step forward in what is a joint commitment to provide collaborative opportunities for our students to develop a rewarding career.
“The academy gives students an opportunity to learn in a space in which they can immerse themselves in the environment of the employer and develop real-world behaviour and attitudes – which will make them more employable and accelerate the value they bring to an employer when they progress from College into work.
“The fabulous team at Little Explorers Community Nursery are able to work with the potential workforce of the future, and input into creating a pipeline of talent.”
Katie Smith, co-owner of the Ofsted ‘Outstanding’ rated Little Explorers, added: “We feel honoured and privileged to have an academy partnership with Barnsley College.
“We can’t wait to start this full, immersive journey with the College.”
This page was last updated on: 5th June 2025 11:21am
