Busy Bees and Scallywags say thank you with a song
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CHILDREN from two local nurseries that were under threat of closure are trending online in a short video clip of them singing a thank-you song.
Pre-school children from Busy Bees in Bower and Scallywags at Crossroads have become the stars in their own production – it received over 1700 views shortly after being released on Monday.
Called Two Little Words, the song was written by Fiona Murray, senior early years practitioner at Busy Bees, who was able to draw on her own musical talents as well as the technological skills of her sons, Brett and Dale, who helped in the production. Other nursery staff also took part in the video.
The nurseries were both under fear of closing last year when funding for the facilities was under threat of being withdrawn. However, the plight of the nurseries attracted great community support and following a spell of local campaigning both Busy Bees and Scallywags were saved.
Campaigners hope the release of the thank-you song will help raise the profile of the local nurseries which are both featured in the video.
Local mum Sharon Dismore, whose daughter will be joining Busy Bees this year, said: "We made this song just to say a huge thanks to the community and councillors.
"We have just been overwhelmed by the interest and support from the local community. Both nurseries are going absolutely fantastically."
At Busy Bees Preschool the focus is on outdoor creative play and at present around 12 children are signed up to the activities there during the week, with some coming from as far as Scrabster to take advantage of the facility.
Low attendance numbers and reduced funding had forced the Bower nursery to shut for a short time last year. However, it reopened in November after the facility was revamped with the help of a large band of local supporters.
The nursery is open for two to five-year-olds and welcomes children from across Caithness.
Scallywags Nursery at Crossroads was under threat of closing after the summer holidays last year after Highland Council announced that it would be axing its £28,000 funding.
The nursery, based at Crossroads Primary School, was granted a reprieve after parents and staff started a campaign to get the local authority to reverse its decision.
The campaign was supported by Caithness Highland councillors, Dunnet and Canisbay Community Council and the public. A petition was also launched.
