Who are Milborne Ladybirds? 

Milborne Ladybirds is the Milborne St Andrew’s village Playgroup. A Committee was formed in January 2001 after it became apparent that there was sufficient demand within the village to support a playgroup. The Committee went on to become registered as a charity and registered with OFSTED in time to open for the last half of the summer term in 2002. 

What do we offer? 

We offer full playgroup facilities to children of pre-school age from 2 years and nine months until they join their first school, usually Milborne first school. We currently offer three morning sessions per week on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays although we hope to open more as demand expands.

We have a full range of toys and educational aids that we can use in the central village location of the Village Hall. The Playleader is Faye Hearn who is supported by Liz Dyer and unpaid volunteers. Both Faye and Liz are fully qualified and ensure that we meet all current guidelines for education. This is done in a safe, warm and friendly atmosphere that the children enjoy tremendously. 

Sessions are themed and designed to incorporate the current curriculum in a fun and informative way through play. The aim is to assist in the transition from Playgroup to School. We have close links with Milborne First School and regular contact with the reception class teachers to ensure that the move to the big school is as smooth as possible for the children.  

How does the Committee operate? 

We meet about every three weeks to discuss the playgroup and ensure that we are on track in terms of development and sustainability. Currently we number eight in total and come from a diverse background with some being parents of children who attend Ladybirds and others interested in doing something for the community in their spare time. We are a friendly bunch and always interested in offers of help in whatever form it takes. 

Do you want to know more?

If you would like to know more feel free to contact Debbie Steel (Secretary) on 01258 837458 and she will be happy to discuss anything you need to know further or arrange to come and see the Playgroup in action.