The former Poppins Early Learning Centre became Hopscotch Day Nursery on 22 February, retaining all seven staff who had worked under the previous manager.
Founder and director of Hopscotch Day Nurseries Freya Derrick operates two other sites in Gosport. A nursery and a pre-school opened in 2006 and 2007. The new setting in a listed building remained open throughout the takeover and has since undergone major refurbishment.
In 2006, 11 members of Poppins staff handed in their notice after clashing with nursery director Richard Lewis (News, 7 December 2006). Mr Lewis's partner, Jamie Ashwanden, allegedly handed over his side of the business, and 14 members of the original 19 staff members had left by the 2007 New Year. Ms Derrick worked to buy it from July 2007.
Nursery manager Kaitee Parsons said, 'We've remained open and done the changeover in stages, so the children are still supported. In turn, the support from Ofsted, parents and staff has been amazing. Since the walkout, the nursery had never really flourished. Morale was still low when we took over, with staff leaving and the premises suffering from a lack of care.'
The former Poppins staff had extensive training and worked at the Gosport nursery to learn the Hopscotch ethos. Occupancy has improved significantly, with around 12 children joining since February.
'Poppins was well known, so people remember the incident, but word of mouth has also gained us new children,' said Ms Parsons.
'We've held an open day since the refurbishment and staff have been beaming. They are so proud of the setting. They respect our commitment and that we get things done.'
