A nursery has been shortlisted for a national outdoor learning award.

Partou Bumpkins Day Nursery and Pre-School in Whaddon is in the running for the Outdoor Learning Environment of the Year accolade at the National NMT Nursery Awards.

The award will be given to the nursery which has "created an outdoor 'living classroom' which inspires and excites children", according to the judges.

Partou Bumpkins Nursery manager, Amy Chipperfield, said: "As a team, we are passionate in our belief that children should have endless opportunities to explore and learn whilst being in a safe and happy environment.

"Nature Rangers is designed to empower children by fostering confidence and creativity through a blend of structured safety protocols and open-ended, nature-based activities.

"We are over the moon that the outdoor environment we have crafted has impressed the judging panel for such a high-profile national award.

"It is a shared success for the team members, families and children at our beautiful nursery."

Partou Bumpkins, rated 'outstanding' by Ofsted, is recognised for its high levels of childcare and early years education.

The nursery's outdoor learning environment, Nature Rangers, encourages children aged three and above to explore and learn in nature.

This area includes a classroom, known as 'the cabin,' and incorporates all seven areas of learning in the Early Years Foundation Stage.

Children can enjoy a large sandpit, firepit area, mud kitchen, bug houses, herb garden, mud mound, obstacle course, and a bird lookout house.

Samantha Rhodes, Partou managing director, said: "Partou Bumpkins is run wonderfully well by a long-standing nursery team that boasts strong relationships with families and children throughout the local community.

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"As nursery manager, Amy began her journey at Bumpkins almost 12 years ago as an unqualified practitioner before gaining her qualifications and a wealth of experience whilst working in several different roles.

"The depth of knowledge she has built up over this period goes a long way to explaining why the nursery is so highly regarded locally and nationally.

"Nature Rangers is a shining example of what can be achieved by creative thinking, professionalism and an understanding of the individual needs and interests of young children."