Nursery at hospital celebrates 30th anniversary by opening Peace Garden

Children’s Place Day Nursery, in the grounds of Dewsbury and District Hospital, first opened on June 10, 1991.

The Peace Garden is a cool and quiet space tucked away outside where staff and children can take a few minutes on their own to relax or reflect.

Debbie and David Burke, along with business partner Karen Walker, opened their first nursery at the then newly-built Staincliffe hospital and at the time it was seen as a major boost in helping the NHS retain staff.

There was also a shortage of nursery places in Dewsbury and Batley.

The company, now run by Debbie and David, works closely with local NHS trusts across West Yorkshire and now has nine nurseries in Kirklees, Calderdale and Bradford.

The opening of the Peace Garden was kept low-key for social distancing, though nursery manager Lynn Walton ensured there was enough cake to go round!

The Peace Garden contains a water feature, a bench, decked area and grass and is surrounded by a green fence.

Debbie said: “The Peace Garden is designed to recognise the hopes and dreams of the entire human family for peace on earth, and features a Peace Pole displaying the message: ‘May Peace Prevail on Earth.’

"There’s also relaxing seating areas and a calming water feature.

“It will be used as a space for children and staff to enjoy a moment of calm and reflection, to enhance their opportunities to engage in their own health and well-being, and enjoy nature.”

On the anniversary Debbie added: “It was wonderful to open the Peace Garden and mark a journey that began here at Dewsbury.

“Over the years we have provided care and learning to thousands of wonderful children, and are proud to still be here making a difference to children’s early years experiences.

“It has been a pleasure to work with so many dedicated and passionate early years practitioners, partners and families – we really have had a blast!

“We want to thank everyone who has been a friend of the nursery over the years.”