Growth Spurt for Little SERC

South Eastern Regional College’s (SERC) Little SERC Creche, based at the College’s Newcastle Campus, has had approval from the Department of Health and Social Services to extend the age range of children eligible to attend the creche.

Ursula Maginn, Creche Manager, Little SERC said, “We are delighted that we are now able to accommodate children from primary one and primary two age groups.   This extension to the age groups of children attending the creche means we now have places for 26 children aged from birth to primary two eligible to attend, whilst their parents are studying at SERC Newcastle Campus.   It will help further remove barriers for parents wishing to return to education and attend classes or study beyond 2.00pm when their children finish school.”

Little SERC Creche has also received funding from the CCP Small Grant Scheme 2025/26 to purchase play items for creative, physical, and literacy activities geared for the older children.

The Creche, which  officially opened in November 2020, provides professional care, safe and stimulating play and enjoyable learning for children of adults enrolled on Restart, Access and Supporting Teaching and Learning courses at the Newcastle Campus. This access to childcare is crucial in helping parents gain skills and progress to work or onto further and higher education.

The Little SERC team comprises four full time and one part time staff who have a combined total of 90 years childcare experience between them. They work collaboratively with the tutors to provide a holistic education and support package to local families. The staff were awarded a Pearson National Teaching Sliver Award for Early Years Team of the Year in June 2023.