Grasshoppers, a new day nursery for children aged two years and above, opened yesterday (Monday) at the Mountain View Innovation Centre near Ramsey.

The project has been pioneered by Shondelle Rhoden, who has experience working with young people in the island in roles, and who says the nursery has an environmentally-aware approach.

She said: ’When I came to Mountain View for the first time, I just knew that this was the ideal location for a nursery. We believe that the closer to nature the children are, the happier they will be and therefore the more they will learn.

’Being set in 25 acres of outstanding natural beauty and away from busy roads there are endless opportunities for adventure in the various pockets throughout the site.’

She said that during the day children could go for walks, have picnics, jump in puddles, chase butterflies, make sandcastles and mud pies.

’We are also currently developing a dedicated field just for the children where we will be planting vegetables and flowers as well as installing natural outdoor play equipment and simply just having a space to enjoy the fresh air,’ she said.

’We hope that by using natural resources, following a reuse, reduce, recycle framework and by focussing on being environmentally aware and active, we will empower and inspire the children as world citizens from an early age.’

The nursery, which occupies one of the original farm buildings, has been renovated.

Nursery assistant Michelle Towers said: ’You won’t find many plastic toys here at Grasshoppers. Instead we prefer to use wooden toys, natural pieces and authentic resources to help engage and stimulate the children’s imaginations.

’The open plan design allows the age groups to mingle - giving the older children an opportunity to nurture the younger children whilst they can, in turn, look up-to and learn from their peers.’

Yesterday’s opening marked the culmination of a 12-month project.

Ms Rhoden said: ’The AFD Group [which set up Mountain View on the old film studios] have really embraced the project and have been incredibly supportive.

’Their strong company culture and being environmentally active makes a perfect fit. I love the fact that we are now part of this growing collaborative business community and can benefit from all the facilities on site.’

Grasshoppers is open Monday to Friday from 8am to 6pm.