🌼 Redefining Early Childhood Education With Heart and Purpose
Here at Fernbees Day Nursery in Stockport, we’re proud to be changing the way early years learning happens, while bringing joy and purpose to the wonderful residents next door at our Fernlea Care Home.
We’re the very first intergenerational nursery in the North of England. Since opening in 2022, we’ve created a nurturing environment where our children and Fernlea’s residents, lovingly known as ‘GrandBees’ learn, grow, and build beautiful friendships together.
👨👩👧 Rooted in Family Values
Fernbees is owned and operated by Olea Care Group, a family-run organisation that spans three generations. Our journey began with a shared belief in the power of connection across ages, inspired by our own experience and ideas that came from our staff, residents, and even the youngest members of our family.
We knew we wanted to create a space where young children and older adults could interact meaningfully, and that’s exactly what Fernbees has become.
💬 Learning Through Love and Empathy
The benefits of our intergenerational model go both ways.
Children learn respect, empathy, and patience from interacting with older adults.
Alex Gowland, Our Intergenerational Champion for Fernbees, explained: “The children develop a deeper understanding of the elderly’s needs. They learn empathy instinctively.
“I’ve seen children naturally helping residents during activities, like passing resources or playing volleyball with balloons during Sports Day.”
Alex also notes how the experiences positively influence the children’s confidence.
She explained: “We had a little boy in the Baby Bees group who used to cling to us, feeling shy and reserved.
“But after visiting Fernlea regularly, he opened up and now enthusiastically enjoys the activities.
“It’s amazing to see how much he has grown.”
The emotional benefits for the residents are equally profound.
Beverly added: “The interactions bring a sense of purpose and joy to our residents.
“Even those who are usually hesitant to participate in activities get involved when they see it helps the children.
“It makes them feel young again, like they’re part of the fun and energy.”
👵🧒 Organic Interactions That Blossom
Our nursery was purpose-built to encourage spontaneous, natural connections between our children and the residents at Fernlea. From drop-in play sessions to planned activities like Song and Rhyme Time, the joy they share is incredible.
Our Intergenerational Champion at Fernlea, Beverly, sees the impact every day. Residents light up when the children arrive, and even ask to see them outside scheduled events—they love watching them play, hearing their laughter, and feeling part of their world.
🎈 Mutual Growth and Purpose
These experiences are mutually enriching. Our children learn empathy instinctively offering help, sharing joy, and connecting in deep and meaningful ways.
As for our GrandBees, these interactions are filled with purpose. Even residents who tend to be quiet or withdrawn join in when they know they’re making a difference in a child’s life. It’s like a spark of youth reignites within them.
🤝 Friendships That Truly Matter
One of the most heartwarming parts of our work is seeing the genuine connections that form.
Beverly smiled: “When they recognise each other, it’s magical.
“If a resident is absent, the children will ask about them and genuinely care.
“It shows that real friendships are being made.”
To deepen those relationships, we’ve introduced a buddy system, pairing children with specific residents to strengthen consistency and allow friendships to flourish even more.
Alex said: “This helps build consistency and deeper relationships. It’s about truly understanding each other’s needs and growing together.”
📚 Building a Community With Vision
In 2024, we were proud to earn an Ofsted ‘Good’ rating, which is a reflection of our commitment to high-quality early years education rooted in love, respect, and mutual growth.
Looking ahead, we’re excited to continue growing and innovating, creating even more ways for generations to learn from and support one another.
Fernbees is far more than a nursery, it’s a vibrant community where age doesn’t divide us, it connects us.
🔍 Want to Know More? You can explore our story and approach at https://fernbees.co.uk/