All Hallows Playgroup closes
The church Playgroup closed for the summer on 19 July 2002 and will not be re-opening in the autumn. We have quite simply run out of children. The increasing numbers of students in the area, coupled with the nurseries taking in children a year younger than was the case when we opened, means that we are no longer financially viable. None of the staff are happy with the situation, but it was not so much a matter of making the decision to close as recognising that we had no other option.
The Playgroup opened in October 1990 as a reaction to the ‘middle-class’ expectations of playgroups at the time (e.g. a term’s fees in advance, duty rotas, joining committees and taking on responsibilities etc.) — which were impossible for the local families at that time, who needed to be the supported rather than the supporters. Our fees have always been the lowest in Leeds and parents paid only for the days when their children attended. There was no formal committee — but parents were invited to contribute whenever and however they felt able. We have also pushed the social boundaries, giving us a wonderful mix of faiths and background of both children and staff; we have actively recruited men (who are not always made welcome in early years’ work) and Asian and other ethnic-minority students. We have had great success with senior citizens, who love to come in and read to and play with the children, and have also recruited workers through Mencap. We have tried to live the All Hallows dream of being open and welcoming to all people.
But life is always changing and we cannot stand still. There are fewer families locally, and the families whose children attend do not require the level of support that our structure provides. Difficult as it is to admit it, we believe that we have reached the end of our usefulness to local people and it is time to use our energies elsewhere.
Please remember the Playgroup staff in your prayers — we have been together as a team for years, so the past few weeks have been very difficult, especially the final goodbyes last Friday.
Iris, Julie, Gill, Sue, Sheila and Elaine
The details of Playgroup (below) will be left here for the next few weeks as a tribute to the excellent work done by Elaine and the other staff.
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All Hallows Playgroup |
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dalmatian by EmilyWe provide a friendly and caring environment for children aged from two and a half years to school age. There are lots of toys, books and games — and craft activities led by our committed, qualified staff team. Our aim is to encourage your child to have fun, gain independence and learn from free play and some guided activities.
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a ladybird by Derell |
The atmosphere is relaxed and friendly. Parents can leave or stay and join in the fun. Our fees are affordable [from just £1.25 a morning] and we are open for four mornings a week in school term time. Why not come and visit — there is no need for an appointment — we are open Mondays, Tuesdays, Thursdays and Fridays from 9.15 to 11.45 am. Playgroup leader: Elaine Wilford (phone her at the Cardigan Centre on 0113 275 9282) |
