Alton College Nursery

Alton Nursery Closure – A Difficult Decision Made with Care

Havant and South Downs College has confirmed the closure of Alton College Nursery following a careful and extended period of recruitment efforts.

Over recent months, the College undertook an intensive search to appoint both a Nursery Manager and Deputy Manager, positions that are a legal requirement and essential for ensuring the safe, high-quality provision that families and staff rightly expect. Despite repeated advertising, outreach, and interviews held even this week, no suitable appointments were secured.

In parallel, the College explored potential partnerships with alternative early years providers to maintain provision at the site. However, this too has proved unviable.

“This closure is deeply regrettable,” said Mike Gaston, Principal and CEO of HSDC. “Every possible avenue was explored to keep the nursery open from late-stage interviews to conversations with external providers. Sadly, none could offer a viable long-term solution that met the needs of our children, staff, and community.”

The College has now begun informing parents and staff, and is providing guidance on alternative childcare provision within the local area.

Mike Gaston emphasised the College’s ongoing commitment to the Alton community: “We recognise how significant Alton Nursery is to the local community and we have done everything we can so as not to have to make this decision. We are part of the Alton community and remain firmly committed to our role in the local community into the future.”