It was all child’s play as the youngsters of the Newtowncunningham Community Playgroup explored the exciting new surroundings of their new state-of-the-art facility.
Having been in service for over 25 years, with over 600 children through its doors, Newtowncunningham Community Playgroup was never content to make do and muddle on with temporary, makeshift premises. With massive support from the community, local businesses and substantial fundraising, the group determinedly resolved to have their own premises built around their needs.
The playgroup managed to build the foundations of their site up to roof level, on a site secured from the parish in the centre of the village. But as funds ran out, the build was halted for 10 months.
According to Pauline Bonner (Manager), “this was a difficult time, it was hard to see the build which had come so far, remain at a standstill”. However, the staff and committee persisted and the build began again due to a combination of their determination, hard work and some good fortune as the Department of Children & Youth Affairs opened it’s 2015 Capital Funding programme.
Newtowncunningham Community Playgroup benefited substantially from the 2015 Capital grant of €260,557 which enabled them to complete the new facility, which was officially opened on the 8th April 2017. At last the playgroup has a state of the art, permanent building that will facilitate the local communities for years to come.
Mary McGowan, Chair of Donegal County Childcare Committee remarks, “DCCC congratulates Pauline and her staff, the Committee and the local community for all they have achieved here. We love to see children inspired by their surroundings, exploring with curiosity and learning a great deal. In keeping with its child-centred ethos, it was particularly fitting that the main people involved in the opening were the children who attend the playgroup”.
Playgroup Manager Pauline Bonner and her staff
Playgroup Manager Pauline Bonner and her staff and Donna Kenny DCCC
The playgroup can accommodate 44 children in both its morning and afternoon sessions. At present, the playgroup caters for 66 children from Newtowncunningham and neighbouring areas, such as the outskirts of Manorcunningham, Killea, Carrigans and St. Johnston.
In its central location on Main Street, with the local school just across the road and the community allotments right next door, the centre is seen as a focal point in the community. It brings together people of varying backgrounds, cultures and religions. The design and layout of the premises itself is excellent and leads to a free flow of creativity and child centred play.
Pauline states “We’re so proud of what we’ve achieved here! And for that I have to acknowledge the backing of our committee who’ve worked so hard to create this playgroup”. She advises any other childcare group that may be trying to build their own facility to ensure that they have a strong committee in place, and to seek advice and support from Donegal County Childcare who have a wealth of knowledge on funding and planning etc.”
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