'It was a true celebration of 70 years of nursery education' (From Watford Observer)

Kingswood Early Years Centre holds party to celebrate landmark anniversary

3:30pm Thursday 27th September 2012 in News By Rebecca Perring, Reporter

A Watford nursery school's pupils and staff were pleased to see the sun shining at their fun-filled garden party to mark its 70th anniversary.

Staff and pupils from Kingswood Early Years Centre in Briar Road marked its landmark year by holding a garden party, welcoming past students and teachers.

The school was originally opened in 1942 to allow mothers to go and work in a local munitions factory to support the war effort.

Run by nurses and with a matron in charge, it was more like a hospital and all of the children were put to sleep in cot beds every afternoon.

A bouncy castle, tombola, treasure map, lucky dip, guess how many sweets, name the teddy, face painting and a barbecue were just some of the activities for the youngsters to enjoy at the garden party.

Bernice Jackson, headteacher at the nursery, said: "We were overwhelmed by the number of previous and current pupils who attended and in addition local residents and ex members of staff came along.

"It was a true celebration of 70 years of nursery education and there was a wonderful party atmosphere.

"We were delighted and grateful that so many people came out to support us on such a glorious day of sunshine."

The nursery is currently raising money towards funding a new wildlife area for the youngsters to enjoy and celebrations raised £2,300 towards this project.