Local nursery welcomes MP to forest play area

October 2022

The children of Applegarth Nursery had a very special visitor earlier this month, as they welcomed local MP Mark Spencer to their new forest play area.

Representatives from the nursery and QTS Group were on hand to meet Mr Spencer, who is the MP for Sherwood, and showcase the partnership which has helped create a safe space for the children to enjoy outdoor play.   

Thomas Marshall, Operations Director for QTS said: 

“It was a real pleasure to meet Mark and show him the fantastic space that our team has helped to build.  

“QTS is a very community focused business, so we have loved working with the Applegarth team to develop out this play area for the local children to enjoy. The nursery utilises the forest play area every day, regardless of the weather, and it’s great to see the kids get so much enjoyment out of what we have created for them.” 

Mark Spencer, MP, added:    

“It was great to come along and see the fantastic space that QTS and the nursery have put together for the children. This will be a real asset to every child who comes here and thank you to everyone who made this happen.” 

Applegarth director Donna Harris said: 

“Natural play is a key component of what we offer at Applegarth, so to be able to work with our neighbours, QTS, to deliver an expanded and improved play area has been a really positive experience. The area has become a real highlight for the children and it’s so wonderful to see them out enjoying the space. 

“It was a pleasure to welcome Mark to see the work we are doing here, and I am thrilled that he recognises the benefits it will be bring to the children and their educational development.” 

QTS, based at Baxter House, Linby, extended the current play area by giving the nursery access to additional ground to create a larger space for the children to enjoy outdoor play.  The 85m² section of green space was taken from QTS’ Baxter House site and is now secured by 30m of fencing, provided by the contractor. 

The QTS team also built sheltered areas for the children, as well as providing additional materials that the Applegarth team can use as part of its natural play philosophy.