A Warm Welcome to Our New Nursery Manager

This autumn marks an exciting new chapter at Margaret McMillan Nursery, not only as we celebrate an incredible 90 years of caring for Plymouth’s children, but also as we welcome a new face to lead us forward.

Meet Mrs Tania Barretto

We’re delighted to introduce Mrs Tania Barretto as our new Nursery Manager. Tania brings with her over 20 years of experience as both a primary school teacher and a Pre-School Manager.

Born and raised in Plympton, Tania trained as a teacher before working in schools in East London and Essex. She later returned to Devon to raise her three sons – all of whom attended Devonport High School for Boys.

Reflecting on her new role, Tania shared:

“It’s a real honour to join a nursery with such a rich history here in Plymouth. I’ve been struck by the warmth of the team and the wonderful children I’ve already met. I’m excited to build on the fantastic work of my predecessor, Toni Sullivan, and to continue supporting families and children in our community.”

You’ll see Tania around the nursery, so please do stop to say hello!

What’s Happening in Our Rooms

Every term brings fresh ideas, new discoveries and plenty of fun across our nursery rooms. Here’s a little peek into what the children have been up to this September:

Baby Room

• Settling back in… Our youngest children have been getting cosy after the summer break, with lots of focus on feeling secure and happy.

• Exploring textures… From shaving foam to sand and cereals, sensory play is helping babies discover likes and dislikes through touch, taste and smell.

• Family focus… We’re also looking at photos of our families and friends to help build strong connections.

Tiny Tots

The Tiny Tots have been exploring their brand-new toys and a role play area that’s inspired some wonderful imaginative play. The team have been working hard to help the children settle into their new space and routines.

Toddlers

It’s been a busy start in the Toddler Room! The children are enjoying their new class book The Same but Different Too by Karl Newson, which has sparked some thoughtful conversations. Alongside stories and songs, the toddlers are:

• Building gross motor skills in the garden,

• Strengthening fine motor skills with playdough,

• Linking colours to emotions to help explore feelings.

Pre-School

Pre-School children are learning all about themselves and one another this month. Using mirrors, they’re exploring faces and features, while celebrating the things that make each of us unique. We’ll also be making binoculars to spot different boats and ships out at sea, a real Plymouth adventure.

Dates for the Diary this Autumn:

Here are some of the key dates coming up this term:

• Brazilian Food Day – Wednesday 10th September

• Kidslingo French sessions begin – Week of 8th September

• Nursery Open Day (90th Anniversary Celebration!) – Saturday 20th September, 12–4pm

• End of Term – Tuesday 23rd December

• Christmas Closure – 24th–31st December

• Bank Holiday – Thursday 1st January 2026

• Staff Training Day (closed) – Friday 2nd January

• Spring Term begins – Monday 5th January

Looking Ahead

From celebrating our 90th birthday to welcoming new children and staff, it’s a truly special time at Margaret McMillan Nursery. We’re so grateful to all our families for their continued support and we’re looking forward to another term full of curiosity, discovery and joy.

If you’d like to know more about life at our nursery or have questions about sessions, admissions or day-to-day care – please don’t hesitate to get in touch.