A NEW name is helping a New Hinksey nursery ‘look to the future’ as it approaches its 50th anniversary.

Lake Street Playgroup is now known as Lake Street Nursery and the minor change represents the growth of the childcare provider from its humble origins.

The nursery, which has been looking after young children across South Oxford since1969, started with short play sessions in South Oxford Community Centre.

It now provides childcare for up to 40 children a week in a dedicated building in Hinksey Park.

Dan Selinger, chairman of the Lake Street Nursery Committee, said: “The name change and our new status as a Charitable Incorporated Organisation really reflect how much more professional things have become over the years.

“The status is mainly administrative but the name helps show we are a five-day-a-week childcare provider.

“It seemed like a good time to do it as we start to think about looking back on the first 50 years and forward to the future.”

He added that while Lake Street’s legal status has changed, the staff, trustees and premises have stayed the same.

It remains parent-led, with a committee made up entirely of the parents of current and former pupils.

Lake Street was rated ‘outstanding’ by Ofsted in 2014, thanks in-part to its focus on learning through play, creativity and ‘inspirational’ leadership.

Nursery manager Catherine Morey said: “Lake Street has gone to strength to strength over the years – from a few sessions a week in a community centre to an outstanding nursery in a lovely building of our own with a strong team of committed and experienced staff.”

She added: “Our mission is to work in partnership with families and the community to provide a safe, friendly and nurturing environment for children from all backgrounds and ethnicities to learn and develop through play.”

A celebration of the name change, as well as marking 49 years since the group was created, will take place on Sunday.

The Spring Fete will have a barbecue, bar, raffle, bouncy castle, games, and stalls at the Hinksey Park site from 12pm until 3pm.

Ms Morey said: “The Spring Fete will be a lovely opportunity to celebrate our new name and look forward to many more years supporting local children through play.”

Visit lakestreetnursery.org.uk