Families in North Bristol are being encouraged to pay a visit to Southmead Children’s Centre (previously known as Badocks Wood Children’s Centre) as preparations for the new school term are completed.

The centre is celebrating the re-launch of their early education and childcare provision with a celebratory Summer Fayre taking place on Friday 30 August, 11am – 2pm.

Bristolian Briony Williams, the Great British Bake Off favourite, will be running a cake decorating session for everyone to take part in. Other activities include a BBQ, face painting, raffle and tombola.

The management of the early education and childcare provision at the centre has recently been taken over by Bristol City Council for children aged two years and above. Southmead Children’s Centre is part of the North Bristol Children’s Centre Hub, and a range of health and family support services will also be available to families in the community

Councillor Helen Godwin, Cabinet Member for Women, Children and Families, said:

“The children’s centre has been through some challenging times over the past few years, but we want to reassure the local community that it is here to stay.  

“Management (of the early education and childcare provision) has now been passed to the council’s education and children’s services and I’m confident we can work together to make sure that the centre continues to thrive.

“Our passionate team will be looking to transform the play and learning spaces for children, where they will have the opportunity to become inquisitive capable learners.

“I encourage local people to join us at the Summer Fayre, which will give you the opportunity to take a look around the centre and take part in lots of fun activities.”

The name of the centre is reverting back to its original name, Southmead Children’s Centre, to reflect its role in the local community.

Part of the centre’s transformation will see a new learning approach with the aim to inspire children to learn through “curiosity, awe and wonder.”