A well-known early years provider is set to expand its reach into the village, with work underway on creating a new nursery location at the former Methodist Church on Winchester Street.
Finkley Nursery & Pre-School has announced it has taken over the building and is transforming it into a new childcare setting, with an expected opening date of September.
The move marks a continued period of growth for the nursery group, which has built a strong reputation for combining early years education with hands-on learning experiences linked to its wider family attraction.
Founded in 2017 by childcare professional Alison Dennis, the nursery is closely linked with Finkley Down Farm, an award-winning farm park that has become a popular destination for families. The nursery model blends structured early learning with elements inspired by outdoor play, animals, and exploration.
The nursery says its approach focuses on providing a safe, secure and stimulating environment for children aged three months to five years. Learning through play sits at the centre of its ethos, with children encouraged to explore, develop confidence, and build social skills in a relaxed setting.
The new Winchester Street site will be the latest step in that expansion. Work is currently underway to refurbish the former church building, which is expected to be adapted to meet early years care standards, including indoor learning spaces and secure outdoor play areas.
Local interest in the project has already grown, with parents in the area keen to understand how the new provision will fit into existing childcare options in the village. Demand for nursery places across many parts of Hampshire has remained high in recent years, and new openings are often welcomed by families looking for flexible and high-quality care.
The nursery has confirmed the opening is planned for September.
More information about the organisation and its approach to early years learning can be found on its official website: Finkley Nurseries