Impressive Oldham day nursery sold after 18-year ownership

Ladybirds is an Ofsted-rated ‘Good’ day nursery, with a capacity for up to 54 children aged nought to five years, and a longstanding team of excellent staff. Renowned for having a reputation as one of the best nurseries in the area, this impressive setting boasts consistently high occupancy by way of repeat custom and word-of-mouth referrals. It enjoys a private yet prominent location close to a busy commuter road with direct and easy access to motorway links, attracting a mix of local and commuting parents.

The setting has been owned by husband-and-wife team, Timothy and Barbara Clarkson, since 2006, who implemented a unique and locally renowned childcare offering with a focus on developmentally appropriate learning, enjoyment and active play. Their decision to sell was a difficult one but they felt the time was right for them to seek retirement.

Following a confidential sales process, and with funding sourced through Becki Barnett at Christie Finance, it has been purchased by first-time nursery owner, Arron Leech, who also owns Jungle J’s Play and Party Centre in Chadderton, Oldham.

Timothy Clarkson and Barbara Keeling, former owners of Ladybirds Educational Nursery, comment, "After nearly 18 years, we say farewell to Ladybirds with heavy hearts but with much optimism that the setting will continue to thrive under its new owner. The foundation of a successful nursery is, of course, its staff. We have been immensely fortunate in employing a fantastic team of dedicated professionals who have consistently maintained the setting's reputation for high-quality childcare and education. We thank them for their hard work over the years and wish them and Arron all the best for the future. Our thanks also to Sofia Beck for her steadfast support and guidance throughout the sale process."

Sofia Beck, Director – Childcare & Education at Christie & Co, comments, “I’m so pleased to have helped facilitate Tim and Barbara’s exit plan. Having offered early years care and education to children for so many years, selling their last trading nursery was a decision which didn’t come lightly.

“We have experienced a busy start to 2024 with several day nursery transactions completing in January and a solid increase in new business instructions and offers accepted. We are also seeing lots of new interest in the sector, with first-time nursery buyers like Arron, who have previous experience in the early years and education space, being keen to own their own businesses.”

Ladybirds Educational Nursery was sold for an undisclosed price.

----------------

For further information on this press release, contact:
Phoebe Burrows, Corporate Communications Manager
P: 07540 063 598 or E: phoebe.burrows@christie.com

Contact the agent:
Sofia Beck, Director – Childcare & Education
P: 07736 616 687 or E: sofia.beck@christie.com

Visit Christie & Co’s Business Search page to find out more about current childcare listings.