Intergenerational nursery in Chester wins national teaching award
An intergenerational nursery has won a national teaching award for its inclusive approach to early years education.
By Chester Standard
An intergenerational nursery in Chester has won a national teaching award for its pioneering approach to early years education. Ready Generations Nursery, located within the Belong Chester care village, was named a Silver Winner in the Early Years Team of the Year category at the Pearson National Teaching Awards.
The award recognises the nursery’s unique model that brings young children and older residents together to learn and participate in shared activities. One of the first settings of its kind in the UK, the nursery is fully integrated into the Belong care village, where children regularly spend time with residents through reading, singing, arts and crafts, music, and walks.
This approach is designed to benefit both generations, helping children develop communication skills and empathy while giving older residents meaningful opportunities to stay connected with the community. Ready Generations was among 99 teachers, lecturers, leaders, support staff and education settings across the UK to receive a Silver Award this year.
Charlotte, a nursery educator and Intergenerational Lead at Ready Generations, is passionate about the model and its impact on both children and older people. Belong, the provider behind the care village, has a long history of caring and specific expertise in supporting people with dementia, which adds depth to the intergenerational environment.
The nursery’s success highlights how inclusive early years education can foster mutual understanding and social connection across age groups. Local pride in the achievement is evident, with the community celebrating the nursery’s role in setting a new standard for early childhood care in Chester.
The award underscores the value of integrating early education with social care, creating a holistic environment where learning and wellbeing go hand in hand. Ready Generations’ model offers a practical example of how intergenerational programmes can support emotional development in children while enhancing the quality of life for older adults.
As one of the earliest such settings in the country, the nursery continues to lead in demonstrating the benefits of shared experiences between generations. The recognition at the national level confirms the nursery’s contribution to innovative and inclusive practice in early years education.
This achievement is a testament to the dedication of the staff and the supportive environment provided by Belong Chester. The nursery’s work stands as a meaningful example of how education can bridge age divides and create lasting social value.