Muddy Boots Nurseries is building a strong reputation for early years childcare and education across its growing network of settings, placing nature-led learning, family involvement and community engagement at the centre of daily nursery life.
With a focus on helping children learn through hands-on experiences, Muddy Boots encourages outdoor play and exploration as a core part of the curriculum. From seasonal activities and nature walks to creative play inspired by the outdoors, the approach is designed to boost confidence, curiosity and independence in young children.
Muddy Boots Nurseries in Gildersome has raised £1,805 for Young Lives vs Cancer after a year of fundraising events led by staff, families and local supporters. The total was celebrated with a visit from Krissy, a representative of the charity, who met nursery staff to explain how the donation will help families affected by childhood cancer.
She said the funds will contribute towards practical and emotional support, including a home-from-home base where families can rest and regroup during hospital stays, as well as family support days designed to help parents and children connect with others who understand their experience.
“We are immensely proud of the hard work of our families and staff,” said a spokesperson for Muddy Boots Gildersome. “Seeing everyone come together for Young Lives vs Cancer has been truly moving. These funds will make a real difference to families when they need it most, and we’re grateful to everyone who gave their time, skills and kindness to make this possible.”
Over the past 12 months the nursery organised a full calendar of community activities, including sponsored ‘teddy toddles’, raffles and bake sales. The combined effort reached £1,805 — enough to fund around 71 hours of direct support from a Young Lives vs Cancer specialist. Fundraising highlights included themed activity days for children, family bake sales and staff-led challenges, bringing the nursery community together behind a shared cause.
Families are also a key part of the Muddy Boots ethos. Parents and carers are encouraged to take an active role through nursery events, shared learning activities and regular opportunities to engage with staff about children’s progress and development. The nurseries aim to create a supportive environment not only for children, but for parents too — helping families feel part of a wider community from the earliest years.
Muddy Boots Nurseries provides early years childcare and education across multiple locations, with a focus on nature-led learning, family involvement and community engagement. The Gildersome setting is part of the wider Muddy Boots family of nurseries, which continues to support local causes while creating nurturing environments for children and parents alike.
When a child is diagnosed with cancer, the effects are felt far beyond the hospital — disrupting family life, putting pressure on finances, interrupting education and taking a toll on emotional wellbeing.
Young Lives vs Cancer supports families throughout that journey, offering specialist help to ease the strain and guide children, young people and their loved ones through treatment and the challenges that can continue afterwards www.younglivesvscancer.org.uk
