Greenstead baby and toddler group looking for new home to help its 15 children

A GREENSTEAD baby and toddler playgroup has issued a desperate plea to help secure its future after learning it must leave its home.

St Andrews Stay and Play baby and toddler group has been at Unity Primary Academy for about five years.

The group – which has on average about 12 to 15 children each day – was originally in the primary school’s reception classroom before moving to the caretaker’s old house in September 2024.

A new tenant is moving into the house and as there cannot be dual occupancy, the baby and toddler group are looking for a new home by April 2.

Manager – Katherine Kirkman runs the St Andrews Stay and Play baby and toddler group  (Image: Submitted) Katherine Kirkman, 36, from Greenstead, runs the groups and said: “We are one of only two such groups in the Greenstead area, and ours is fully funded.

“We work really hard to get funding every year, so we do not have to put that pressure on parents who instead can give £1 or £2 a day.”

Mrs Kirkman said at first the school suggested their small hall however this has no outdoor space or specific baby changing facilities.

The group runs on Wednesday mornings during term time and is manned by volunteers.

Youngsters can enjoy indoor and outdoor play, messy play, soft play and role play.

Mrs Kirkman said the group has five to six “regular families” who rely on their help.

Activities – A range of indoor play, outdoor play, and crafts takes place at the group (Image: Submitted) Mrs Kirkman added: “I don’t put the blame on anyone, but it is such a shame we cannot move on.

“It seems like we might have something with St John Payne Church who we are meeting next week.”

Mrs Kirkman said the plans with the St John Payne Church on Blackthorn Avenue were not “yet concrete” but said the April 2 departure date, as well as upcoming Easter Holidays, had made the search more urgent.

If you can help or are interested in joining the baby and toddler group please email krkirkman17@gmail.com.