Kids Planet has acquired Fledglings, a group of four nurseries based in Bredbury, Irlam, Stretford and Worsley.

Positioned amongst several existing Kids Planet nurseries, the four high-quality settings expand Kids Planet’s offering and build on the nursery group’s presence in Greater Manchester.

The teams at Fledglings are committed to providing a flexible service for families within a friendly atmosphere in which children feel welcomed, and the purpose-built settings enable children to develop socially, intellectually, and physically – in an educationally-oriented environment.

Clare Roberts, chief executive at Kids Planet Day Nurseries, said:

“We have always admired Fledglings as being strong pillars of the Early Years Community in the north-west. I see many synergies with ourselves, with their child-centred approach to early years provision. Across all the settings, strong and established leadership teams are in place, and we are really looking forward to supporting them moving forward and welcoming them into the Kids Planet family.”

Christopher Gray, former owner of Fledglings, said:

“The decision to hand over the reins was incredibly difficult. Fledglings, originally founded by my wife Christine in 1989, has been such a huge part of my family’s life. We are left with fantastic memories and it has been a privilege to have been chosen by many thousands of parents to give their children the best possible start in life. We are confident that the children and our wonderful colleagues will continue to flourish as part of Kids Planet and that has been a major factor in our decision.

“The acquisition process was faultless, it was conducted with the utmost sensitivity and professionalism. The target completion date, which we earmarked from the outset, was met and that is something of an achievement!

“Finally, may I wish all those associated with Fledglings and Kids Planet every success for the future.”