A nursery in Broadstairs has celebrated its 40th anniversary with songs, party food and a special guest.
Barbies Playschool and Selwyn House Nursery School, in St Peter’s Road, was opened by Barbara Pilcher in 1984.
Children and staff, past and present, marked the milestone anniversary today (July 12).
Barbara, 75, previously ran a hotel in Chandos Square but says when the holiday season was over she was looking for something to do and that’s how the nursery was born!
She said: “The nursery has gone from strength to strength in the past 40 years. We have achieved three consecutive outstanding Ofsted reports, which is a testament to our amazing staff, parents and children.
“We have provided an outstanding service to the community over the past 40 years with second and third generation families now coming through our doors.
“We pride ourselves on being welcoming to our families and being an inclusive environment.”
Barbara’s daughter Jo has carried on the family tradition with her nursery Barbies Footsteps, at Oakwood Industrial Estate, Broadstairs, receiving two outstanding Ofsted gradings since opening eight years ago.
Barbara said: “All the children had a lovely time, despite the English weather! We had a special guest appearance from Bluey and the children sang songs including the Barbies Rap!”