A pre-school where children learn outdoors has been honoured at the Oscars of the education world. Staff at Venture Outdoor Kindergarten in Yealmpton were named Early Years Team of the Year in the 2024 Pearson National Teaching Awards.
The kindergarten saw off tough competition from thousands of nominees from all over the country to pick up the top honour – with judges wowed by its Scandinavian approach to early years education.
Co-founders Jenny Papenfus and Zoe Purkis launched their business with a handful of children exploring the outdoors in South Devon. They now work from three settings, with their Yealmpton “little oasis” based in woodlands behind Ben’s Farm Shop. Youngsters and staff also decamp to Mothecombe Beach on Fridays.
A spokesperson for the awards said: “Venture has grown into a supportive family of practitioners. Their exceptional approach prioritises calm, respectful interactions, putting children’s ideas first. The team fosters meaningful relationships, emphasising self-confidence, independence, and emotional wellbeing to prepare children for life.”
The Pearson National Teaching Awards are open to every early years setting, school and college across the UK. Organised by charity the Teaching Awards Trust, they aim to shine a spotlight on the inspiring work of teachers, support staff, colleges, schools and early years educators.
